Posts Tagged ‘law’
True Freedom
As Americans we live in the land of the free. As Americans we are free to express our opinions, believe in whatever we choose, and live as we please. Enshrined in our system is the idea that I can ‘do whatever I want’ so long as I don’t hurt anyone else. If only this were…
Read MoreNot What but Why
Many comedians like to joke about every child’s ‘first’ word. “Why?” Though rarely our first word, once we learn to speak, we are always wanting to know information. Why is the sky blue? Why did my goldfish die? Knowing why something happens gives us comfort. It is no different in our spiritual journey with God.…
Read MoreDenial and Sin are a Dangerous Combination
Everyone knows toddlers are treated differently than teenagers when it comes to behavior. What is ‘cute’ in a toddler is ‘inappropriate’ for a teenager. If we never teach children about proper behavior, they will grow to become destructive adults. Today’s blog isn’t about childrearing. Today’s blog is about sin, and the danger of denying sin…
Read MoreThe New Covenant
Our attention has been on the Holy Cross this week. Just a few days ago we were blessed to gaze upon the Cross of Christ, hear the story of His crucifixion, and hope for a better future with Him in heaven. We cannot ignore that everything that happened on the Cross was new. The Cross…
Read MoreIt’s Not You; It’s Me
Made popular by a famous TV character, this saying has deep truth. It isn’t about breaking up or cancelling a date. What makes this saying true is the relationship between me and the Church. We like to blame the Church for being too strict and chasing me away, but that isn’t true. Brethren, I am…
Read MoreOrthros Prayer Two
Yesterday we prayed for God to always have compassion on us because we can’t do with without Him. In our Orthros Prayer series, we now turn our attention to the commandments of God. His commandments light the way through the darkness to heaven. The problem is we fail to follow His commandments and have been…
Read MoreEpisode 439 – Be Free
When we think of the Holy Canons of the Church, we most often think of them as ‘laws’ to be followed. They should be followed but not because they are laws. In the story of the women bent over for eighteen years, Christ reveals the true purpose of the Law. Following the laws and Canons…
Read MoreAuthority is for Good
As human beings we are consumed with power and authority. Our politics reflect it. Our personal relationships reflect it. Even our home life reflects the desire for power and authority. The problem is, we don’t use our power and authority for good. Brethren, let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is…
Read MoreChristian Hypocrisy
There are many sayings that mock hypocrisy. One of my favorites, “Do as I say, not as I do,” expresses the sad truth that we are all susceptible to becoming hypocrites of the Law. As Christians we say one thing, and often do the other. At least we’re not alone. Brethren, when Gentiles who have…
Read MoreSaved by Grace
Do you believe? Do you have to ‘do works’ to be saved? Why do we have to go to Church? Why do we have to fast? Why are there so many rules in the Orthodox Church? Aren’t we supposed to be saved by grace? What’s the deal? IN THOSE DAYS, some believers who belonged to…
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