How Meeting an Eastern Orthodox Priest Changed my Protestant Theology
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 3 ส.ค. 2020
- Last year I sat down with an Eastern Orthodox priest to learn more about Eastern Orthodoxy. As a lifelong Protestant, I knew next to nothing about Eastern Orthodoxy. It didn't take long for me to realize that I was way in over my head. This priest, Father Mastakas, could cite councils, creeds, and church fathers fluently, and I was left with my head spinning. Luckily, I admitted that growing up in a Protestant church, we never talked about this stuff. I told him that I was lost, and I was going to need him to explain some things to me... preferably like I was a child. Kindly, he obliged, and it was in this meeting with an Orthodox priest that my interest in the Church Fathers and Patristics was ignited. Ever since, I have been fascinated by church history and all there is to learn from the Church Fathers. If I had never left my Protestant bubble, I might not have learned all of this. While I'm not a convert to Orthodoxy and don't plan on becoming one, I recognize that there is so much that Protestants like me can learn from our Orthodox brothers and sisters in Christ. In this video I want to tell invite you into my journey of expanding my theological horizons and learning to engage with people I disagree with.
Church I went to: Saint Peter and Paul Greek Orthodox Church, Frederick, MD.
A huge thank you to Father George Mastakas. Your kindness and patience with me that day is so greatly appreciated.
About me:
Hey! My name is Austin, and I'm a 21 year old guy with a passion for people. I believe the good news is that God is better than we could've ever hoped, and I love sharing this message of grace and love with anyone that will listen. I'm the former Digital Marketing and Video Production Coordinator at a large, evangelical church in Frederick, MD, and I'm currently a student at Moody Bible Institute in Chicago, IL. When I'm not writing papers or making TH-cam videos, I do freelance work as a Wedding Photographer/Videographer and social media consultant. On any given day you can find me with my nose in a book or a guitar in my hands. Want to get to know me more? Follow me and say hi on Instagram at: @austin.suggs
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I converted from Islam to Eastern Orthodoxy ☦️ And the experience has been ever-blessed
That's wonderful to hear!
God bless you bro
Me too!
May the stream become a flood!
we say reverted... to the correct religion
My wife’s famous last words (with her finger pointed in my face): “I will never become Orthodox.”... she was baptized and Chrismated into The Church this summer. Now she’s in the choir. 😂
Haha, the old “never say never” strikes again!
@@GospelSimplicity Well said,, Brother in Christ!
Welcome to Orthodoxy!
Brother are our wives related? Mine is still in the finger pointing stage. 😁
My wife started with finger pointing but her stance is softening. I’m patiently watching God work his miracle
Was a Protestant and only became a catechumen in the Eastern Orthodox Church last week. I have never felt so happy in my entire life
Glad to hear it's been such a positive experience for you!
This is how i got started. A year later i became Orthodox. Enjoy the journey.
Thanks for sharing!
Can I ask what books, other resources you consulted during your journey?
This is also how I got started. After 67 years as a Bapist, I have found home. I was baptized into the Orthodox church this spring!!
Sixty Minutes did a story on Mount Athos in Greece you might like this. Years ago I was talking to a Greek Orthodox priest in my home town in Western Massachusetts. He said " If our meetings and your study bring you closer to Jesus than mission accomplished". There was zero pressure to convert from Catholic to Orthodoxy. I took this journey twenty nine years ago. I like your videos and God bless! Enjoy the journey.
@@GospelSimplicity now that you have the taste for learning go with the same open mind, open heart and humbleness to a Catholic priest who is learned (definitely not some wing nut fringe conservative who secretly hates His Holiness Pope Francis) and hear the other side of the argument from the other half of the Original Church that put the Original Bible together. The Original Church that placed the gospels together along with the Torah define Sola Scriptura, for if they had not, they would never have been in structure nor practice, orders to magnify, exalt and exemplify the Majesty, meek, Royal and impoverished nature of God through clergy that reflect Christ's duel nature. The Roman Catholic Church and the Orthodox churches, that retain the Trinity, are as a mother and father that have separated and are on the verge of divorce but love their child enough to show mutual respect to one another and even love for one another when they are sharing custody and mutual time together in celebration, and that child is The Bible. After all that you have learned in all the people you have met can you and good conscience and Faith truly call yourself a Protestant any longer when you do not protest these Holy Men and being so moved by the spirit within God's glorified houses? The boy doth protest too much methinks (joke) lol. Can you not state, having been moved by the Holy Spirit by the great glory an magnified arts by structure of the Temples to Christ and by humble yet learned words of the priesthood of Catholics and Orthodox that you may simply call yourself a Christian without protest? Is it not clear to you that you protest them no longer?
Sincerely, with love
Your Brother in God, peace be with you.
I was raised Protestant/Evangelical, went to bible school and served as a missionary overseas. It was in Eastern Europe (as a missionary) that I first encountered Orthodoxy. I picked up the book "The Orthodox Way" by Kallistos Ware and that kicked off a long journey of discovery. It was mind blowing how I'd never heard so much of the early history of the Church, and of Orthodoxy specifically. It wasn't an overnight conversion, I had so many questions and doubts. So many of my unchallenged presuppositions we're being called into question. It took nearly 10 years, but I finally entered the Orthodox church and wild horses couldn't drag me away.
Wow, thanks for sharing your story!
Hahhaa welcome home
I had a similar experience. I was going to an Evangelical church and they used a quote from the Orthodox Way in the sermon message. I liked it so much I bought the book not even knowing anything about Eastern Orthodox Church. I just thought it was the Catholic Church of the east. Chrismated into the Church this August!
@@Pilgrim22 Congratulations and many years!
I read that book.
I grew up as a Roman Catholic, even got ordained there as a father Deacon, but as you, in my quest for the Truth, I found Orthodoxy, now I am an Orthodox Priest. God Bless you.
Oh wow! I bet that's quite the story
Greetings from a greek Orthodox
@@matina_angel God Bless you
Wow... I have a question about orthodoxy prayers for the dead. If eastern orthodox doesn’t believe in purgatory why do christians in orthodoxy pray for the dead?
Thanks FR
Lucas G, we pray for the dead so that at the Judgment day, Christ will forgive their sins. When we die, we sleep in the Lord, but await the Judgment
I'm a convert to Eastern Orthodoxy. While reading and learning about the intellectual side of the EOC is good, it's good to remember that the focus of the EOC is the spiritual life.
Thanks for this!
Yes! Books are good and fine, but to truly develop an Ορθόδοξον φρόνημα (an Orthódoxon phronema = an Orthodox mindset, way of thinking) one must immerse oneself in the services of the Church, prayer life, frequent confession and communion.
I know for myself, my soul and body are like a car… the Church is the gas station of my soul and body! The Church is also a hospital for the healing of sinners, to heal our wounded souls, severely wounded by sin and the trials of this world!
Lord have mercy!
100% true!
@@palikariatl So true!! That's been one of the many blessings I've had in the last 18 years since converting. And as a choir director, God has so blessed me by allowing me to learn so much Theology thru my direct involvement in the Liturgical services!
@@artdanks4846 our service books are a theological education! There is a story from the life of an Athonite elder who grew up poor in a small village. He learned the Orthodox Faith as a child by standing next to his father, a psalmist/chanter, during the Divine Services, especially Matins. His village parish did not have “Sunday school”, i.e. catechism classes; this elder’s catechism (Sunday school) was listening attentively to the hymns of Orthros (Matins)!
Eastern Orthodoxy led me out of Calvinism. It’s theology is so rich and fulfilling. I’ve been delving further into their theology ever since. I really encourage you to read For the Life of the World by Alexander Schmemann. It is a beautiful introduction into EO thought and a way of viewing the world as a Eucharistic being.
Thanks for sharing your story! For the Life of the World is actually at the top of my reading list for EO. I've interacted with some of Schmemann's work and find him to be brilliant.
@@GospelSimplicity Fr. Schmemann was indeed brilliant. It's also well worth listening to his son-in-law, Fr. Thomas Hopko of blessed memory. His podcast series "Speaking the Truth in Love" was a treasure trove (and is still available on Ancient Faith Radio). Tons of great content there.
Glory to God!!
For the life of the world was good but a little dense. He seems to not be the most fluid writer.
Such a splendid book. I believe his doctoral thesis was his book Introduction to Liturgical Theology; which is one of the best books on the origin and development of Orthodox liturgy and worship.
My wife and I just started our catechumen for our Eastern Orthodox conversion. We were “non” denomination for over 28 years. Learning the phrase “I don’t know” has been one of the most freeing things. It took me nearly 45 years to find it but I’m learning so much because of this
Thanks for sharing some of your story!
This is one of these reasons I’m considering conversion..Not knowing is better than hearing 1,000 different opinions of ppl thinking there all right.
My fist visit to an Orthodox Church I walked in & fell in love, that was in 91. My wife had never been to any type of liturgical church ask me to take her with me (before we were married) to church, after the 2nd visit she also fell in love with the church. A year we were married & several years later her funeral was in the church. After seeing the fullness of the faith it’s hard to imagine our lives anywhere else.
Wow! Thank you so much for sharing your story!
May her memory be eternal and worthy of all blessedness.☦️
Someone once told me when I was inquiring about orthodoxy that "Those who truly seek Christ always find their way to orthodoxy." that statement stuck with me. Over the past year or so I have seen a lot of people turning to the orthodox church. It makes me so happy!
Interesting!
both of my parents are converts from protestantism to eastern orthodoxy (which i have great love and respect for; it’s an incredibly beautiful church and i’ve been attending a bit myself for a few years), so thank you for making this video! many people try to offer condolences to me, saying they hope my parents come “back to the faith” as if they ever left. the misconceptions within the protestant church regarding the orthodox church is so saddening and disheartening to me, so i’m glad you spoke on this!
Emma Finlayson I’m so glad that you enjoyed this video! Thank you so much for sharing your story. I can imagine, well-intentioned as those people may be, such comments have to be heartbreaking. Honestly, I think so much confusion arises simply from lack of understanding, rather than thorough engagement and subsequent disagreement. Rather than being afraid of things that are foreign to us as Protestants, we should curious, seeking to learn more, and then we might find there’s still some we disagree with, but likely a great deal we agree with too. If the videos I make can help people take even the smallest of steps in that direction, then they’ve done their job.
@@GospelSimplicity I honestly have a similar situation with my girlfriend I am in the process of going through my catechumens into the church. Now she count for a practicing Catholic family. But she's from the Philippines and are slow and I try to explain the difference you to doesn't want to hear it. Tells me her mom's is massive the devotee of the Theotokos. I tell her the entire church calendar is based around her life in relationship to Christ.
Emma, how do you deal with all these issues? Are you protestant also?
Well, I ask this because I'm from Brazil and seeing protestantes going to catholicism is something very rare down here in these latitudes. Recently, I knew about a dear brother in Christ wich, btw, was presbiteryan pastor; and I knew he converted to Catholicism. :/ I must admitt it was shocking to me, 'cos here in Brazil catholicism is very syncretic and folkloric too, they do not seem to have a born again experience. So, pls, tell me, how do you deal with all of these things?
@@josueinhan8436 It is true that in Latin America most of the faithful Catholics tend to be pretty uneducated in reguard to the Faith.
I myself have participated in the "evangelization" of who i then considered to be pagan Catholics.
As a translator, i accompanied several Evangelicals in their endeavors throughtou Mexico.
Lord forgive me.
The issue here is one of differing beliefs which lead to differing objectives.
To a protestant mere "assent to the Gospel " is sufficient for salvation.
However to a Catholic one must believe and turn from his wicked ways.
This sounds pretty much the same until you evaluate what each means when they make these statements.
As a former Calvinist myself, im fairly competent to explain this viewpoint.
Simply believe in Christ's atoning sacrifice, and Heaven becomes your inheritance. We were very consistent in our evangelistic endeavors to ask this question; are you certain that if you were to die right now, that you would awaken in Heaven?
If not, then you need to believe or trust in Jesus as your Savior. From yhen on your Salvation is secure.
But a Catholic (myself included) believes that there is far more to it than sime belief.
This difference is not without reason. St Paul wrote other works beyond the epistles to the Romans, and the Galations which go far beyond the simple believe and be saved formula taught by most protestant thinkers.
All the Apostles including he, taught that works are indeed salvific. Not in themselves, but as the result of trusting Christ. For example, when Jesus told the cripple, "take up your bed and walk". He expected the man to literally do as he had been commanded. Had that man refused to do it, even though he might have believed that Jesus was capable of doing so, his healing would not have happened.
Also it was Jesus himself who said to stop and count the cost before following him. He also said "If any man desires to follow me, let him deny himself, take up his cross, and follow." These are works plain and simple. No they arent works of the law. But they are nevertheless works. And nobody gets saved without them unless of corse he dies immediately after following Christ. Such as the thief on the cross.
When St Paul contrasts faith vs works, if you carefully read you will find that he is not against works, but rather works of the law. The Torah.
He is against the Judaising of Christianity. He is against making Christian's first become Jews and following Jewish Law. Because as Christians we have no need of a written code when God himself dwells within us. We now follow the lead of the indwelling Holy Spirit negating the need of a written code in prefrence to the direct leading of God dwelling within the true believer.
So as a result the Catholic lives what we call the sacramental life.
We go to Mass or Divine liturgy. We partake of the timeless blood and Body of Christ which empowers us to live our lives under the divine direction.
Unfortunately many people are taught to live Godly lives, partaking of the sacraments but not understanding WHY. They then become susceptible when a protestant wanders by with sweet sounding words. But only a part of the story.
It is really tempting. But because it is only part of the story it becomes a falsehood.
@@MrPanchoak I got your point tough I - as you may expect - disagree with you in one or another aspect. However, I love my catholic brethren and also being a calvinist, member of Igreja Presbiteriana do Brasil, I do realize what Paul says about works, I know he refers to the works of the mosaic law. And yeah... for sure Saint James also says we are" not save by faith alone, but by faith and works". Works are crucial for a true christian, and I thank God He empowered me to do them by His Holy Spirit. In my perspective, we, the true elect people of God - (and I consider here not only the protestants Mt 9, 38-41) - , do works as a result of our salvation and of the powerful God's call working in us.
Though l was born into a greek orthodox family, l became a Lutheran when l married my first wife at a very young age. After 40 years and a few divorces among other things, l started inquiring as to the source if Christianity. One day l asked an Orthodox priest concerning Benny Hinn and the practices of many in the prosperity gospel; nevertheless this orthodox priest told me this. " Never judge anyone's principles or virtues, for while you are asking me about evangelical pastors, there are as we speak many who are evangelicals and catholics who are presently saving lives and doing God's work while you are judging one compared to the other". When l heard him say that in such a humble way, l knew that Christ was all about humility. That's when l startes my journey into the Orthodox church. One more thing. At the risk of instilling pride into your videos, l just want to share how truly humble and insightful you are with all your guests. If when your tome comes up and regardless of what church you follow, the lord will surely make an exception in your case due to your authentic humility. God love you my brother.
I am Greek Orthodox since birth and from my fist hand experience at all of the churches I’ve attended, the “converts” to Orthodoxy are so appreciative and the most strong in their faith. I really enjoy shining light on the history of OUR church. And all the converts I know also say that instead converting they “came back” to the Orthodox faith, as they were Christians before they know about the church history.
Thanks for these videos. I grew up Baptist and now I'm Eastern Orthodox.
I'm so glad this popped up on my home page! I come from a similar background as you: I grew up in an evangelical megachurch, vaguely Pentecostal but more nondenominational in practice. Same goes for the Christian school I attended. I felt often felt out of place in these environments; whereas my peers were having these deep, tear-filled, hand-raising emotional experiences in church or chapel services, I...didn't. In high school I took an interest in apologetics and could make a rational case for God, and I knew Christianity to be the most logical worldview, but that was it. Head knowledge. In college I began attending a smaller evangelical church, one without the concerts for worship, and I thought that would remedy my internal emptiness. But it was temporary. I desired more than a Christian-flavored TED Talk, which is all sermons ever seemed to be. I desperately wanted to feel the presence of the Lord.
Hence my interest in Orthodoxy. I'll admit my initial interest in it was purely aesthetic: It was beautiful and mystical, which Protestantism had never been for me. But then I began to read Church history, and my "interest" became more of an obsession. I think the first theological itch I had was the idea of absolute truth. I'd always been taught some variation of "Jesus and His Apostles founded the Church in 33 AD but the truth was lost until Luther." Luther good, Pope bad, essentially. But to me that didn't seem right. How could God allow the fullness of His Truth be lost for so long? Surely there had to be some group of Christians, however small that may be, that still held the fullness of the Faith delivered by Christ and the Apostles. Truth is truth and does not change, and I couldn't square that with Protestant history. Saints Ignatius of Antioch and Clement of Rome, plus the Didache, were the final nails in the coffin for me: The Christian faith they described did not align with Protestantism of any flavor, nor Catholicism. Eastern Orthodoxy was the only possible conclusion.
If you are able, I highly recommend attending a Divine Liturgy service. It may be strange and overwhelming at first, but it is truly the most reverent and beautiful experience of the presence of God you could hope to have on this earth. I sobbed after my first Liturgy because it was the first time in my life I had ever felt the Holy Spirit. Orthodoxy is not just intellectually and spiritually satisfying. It is nourishing and healing. The Church is the Hospital, Our Lord the Physician, for our sick and broken souls. I pray the Holy Spirit will guide you to the fullness of the faith and graciously brings you into a more intimate relationship with Our Lord, and I look forward to seeing more videos from you and your journey!
Also, I recommend Orthodox Pilgrim and Fr. Spyridon Bailey's channels. They are both incredible men of God who have a gift for sharing Orthodox thought. Even if you do not become Orthodox, I think you will benefit greatly from the wisdom they have to offer. May the Lord bless you and keep you, brother!
Thank you so much for sharing your story! It was a pleasure to read. I would love to attend a Divine Liturgy. In fact, today I was trying to find an Orthodox Church in Chicago that is open currently. I find EO very intriguing. I appreciate the TH-cam recommendations! I’ve struggled to find as many EO content creators as I have Catholic. Thanks again!
IF YOU WERE FROM A Pentecostal background and you did not receive the fullness of the Spirit and did not operate in the gifts of the spirit then you did not get anything but concert worship. Unless one has a close relationship with Christ and his Holy Spirit then church becomes empty. Liturgies do not give the presence of God; relationship with Christ with his Holy Spirit and with fellow Christians bring the presence of God. God's presence is not whipped up by emotions it is through fellowship. Read the book of Acts carefully and see how the Christians experienced the presence of God.
@@ninomaltese1661 I agree that the presence of God is not conjured by one's emotions! And you are correct that you cannot have a relationship with the Holy Spirit without having a relationship with Jesus Christ. But the Holy Spirit is not “dispensed” to individual Christians, as is taught by the Pentecostal movement. Rather, the Holy Spirit is a permanent Helper (Gk. paraklētos) given to the Church at Pentecost; when we become members of the Church through adoption (Rom. 8:15), we become partakers of the Divine Nature (2 Peter 1:4) and experience the Holy Spirit. The day of Holy Pentecost should be called to remembrance, but it is a unique, one-time event. The early Church did not regularly gather and worship as described in Acts 2, but followed a more liturgical pattern of Gospel proclamation and Eucharistic fellowship. We see this outlined in the Didache, or the “Teaching of the Twelve,” an early Christian writing (written about the same time as Acts) that describes the pattern of Christian worship in the apostolic era. And in Scripture, St. Timothy gives in his first epistle a description of how church gathering should occur: "I write so that you may know how you ought to conduct yourself in the house of God" (1 Tim. 3:15). Nowhere is the speaking of tongues or any other Pentecostal hallmark mentioned! Charismatic conceptions of "baptism of the Holy Spirit" and its consequences are modern innovations that are absent from the early Church. Thank you for your comment, brother. Please read early Christian writers for a fuller picture of how the early Christians actually worshipped.
@@GospelSimplicity I would agree with all that Kelly shared! It's interesting hearing your video. It reminds me of some of my journey. I grew up Southern Baptist later became non-denominational. About 10 years ago, I started learning Koine Greek and learning from major Protestant scholars like N. T. Wright and Richard Hays among others. They opened my eyes to see that there were lots I had missed in the Bible regarding Christianity and what the faith was. I decided at that point to track down the doctrines I had been taught and found that many of them can be traced to 500 years ago or less, which in the timeline of all of church history is not that long. So, I started reading early church writings beginning with writings contemporary to John's writing Revelation (around 90 AD). I wanted to compare them with what I had been taught. When I first read them, I didn't fully understand them, but I realized that they were saying something different than what I had been taught in the Protestant churches. However, they did resonate with what Wright and Hays had taught. My journey went on from there and now I am Eastern Orthodox. I actually wasn't looking to become Orthodox or to change churches. I became Orthodox because I wanted the Christian faith as it was given by Christ to his disciples. It just so happens that the Orthodox church is the ancient faith, belief, life and church passed down to this very day. What is taught in Orthodoxy today is what is taught from the earliest church writings.
Perhaps I might offer you something, if learning more of the ancient church interests you? First, it is a common belief among Protestants that the early church fathers disagreed or became too heavily influenced by other factors and the early church lost its way. I have now methodically read through the first about 400 years of church writings. And, I will say I disagree with the common statement that the early fathers differed. In fact, I find them in remarkable agreement with what the Christian faith was and it was not about how you get to heaven when you die. I suspect that the biggest problem that people in the Western church have in reading early church writings is that the early church writers do not think in Western Christian theology or categories. The understanding of God, sin, humans, and what Jesus was doing are all very different. The reason it doesn't sound like what we are used to in the West is a result of several things. Mainly it is due to changes in Roman Catholic theology and can be traced from Augustine down through Anselm, scholasticism, medieval Roman Catholicism right on down to purgatory and indulgences. In fact, having been raised Protestant I was unaware of early Christian writings and church history with probably the exception of Augustine. It was a shock to me to discover having read all the writings for myself that it was Augustine that was the outlier. He introduced novel theological ideas. Perhaps that is not shocking given his history but also the fact that he did not read Greek and was dependent on a Latin translation. A translation that we in fact know had translation issues especially surrounding Romans 5:12, one of the verses Augustine relied upon. Also, after the great schism in 1054, the Roman Catholic church developed new ideas. The ideas led to interpreting Christianity through a "legal" lens. That sin was more of a judicial problem. And, that led to understanding humans as "just sinners" who God was offended by and mainly wanted to punish, but how could we get off of the hook? That understanding continued on through Protestantism, but none of that is ancient Christian faith. Might I suggest a couple of great videos/podcasts for you where you can learn more?
Understanding Eastern Orthodoxy - Hank Hanegraff Unplugged with Nathan Jacobs
th-cam.com/video/hm3hh0ZT6I0/w-d-xo.html
Sophistication of the Early Church Fathers - Hank Hanegraff Unplugged with Nathan Jacobs
th-cam.com/video/oJHCg8xt_l8/w-d-xo.html
Also this short article is a wonderful overview, The Original Christian Gospel
www.pravmir.com/the-original-christian-gospel/
As for early church writings, many are wonderful and insightful. But, far and away the best help to someone who is trying to understand the ancient Christian faith is Ireneaus' Against Heresies and Athansius' On the Incarnation. I believe every Christian should read these 2 documents and know about these two Christians. Ireneaus is a disciple of Polycarp who is a disciple of John (the disciple of Jesus). Ireneaus is only one generation removed from John and Polycarp was taught by John and made a bishop in the church. Ireneaus, who was also made a bishop, is passing down what he learned from Polycarp. He took that job very seriously. I think he's a good source for insight into ancient Christian belief. And, the man knows all of the New Testament writings. You can almost reproduce the entire New Testament from his writings. Also, Athanasius is one of the main defenders of the Trinity in the First Ecumenical Council at Ephesus and he's also the first one to write down the New Testament canon as we know it today.
Against Heresies
www.newadvent.org/fathers/0103.htm
On the Incarnation
ccel.org/ccel/athanasius/incarnation/incarnation.ii.html
If I might give further advice, don't let people tell you what these writings say or proof text what they say. Read them for yourself. Now, if you read Ireneaus, the first two books will be difficult if you don't understand ancient gnostic thought (one of several heresies Ireneaus was battling)....which is pretty different cosmology. However, if you start with Book 3 and read Books 3,4 and 5 you will see quite clearly the ancient understanding of God, humans, sin and Jesus. I'll give you a hint. Ireneaus talks over and over again about union with God for the healing of humans. It's what the Orthodox today call Theosis.
Kelly mentioned some of the other writings that are excellent too. The Didache, Ignatius' Letters and also the Letter to Diognetus. Those are all relatively short reads. You can find them all online in English as well.
Also, if you want more Orthodox resources, you may find a good first start is to listen to Hank Hanegraff's podcast, Hank Unplugged. Hank, the Bible Answer Man has also became Orthodox. He has a lot of podcasts regarding Orthodoxy and the Early Church Fathers. Look for the podcasts with Nathan Jacobs, Frederica Mathews-Greene and Father Barnabas Powell. His most recent podcast includes one on History, Mystery and the Eucharist with Francis Chan who is also starting to learn church history. If you like to hear people's stories, check out journeytoorthodoxy.com/. I can also recommend www.oca.org/orthodoxy/the-orthodox-faith for a good overview. My favorite section is on "Spirituality". There's also a lot at ancientfaith.com. In fact, I'm beginning to work on my own podcast on the ancient Christian faith, early church writings and church history so as to explain the many facets of what I learned about the early Christian church to those that are curious to learn more.
Austin, it is always a blessing to learn more about the Christian faith and church history. As you said, there is nothing for us to fear in that. I have discovered a treasure. It is not just theological beliefs, but an actual life with God. A life not divided into sacred and secular, but one whole life lived with God every day, and the ancient church knew how to help people to do that. The spiritual disciplines, prayer and worship of the church are greatly healing.
May God bless you on your journey! For He is good and the lover of mankind. And, He is a rewarder of those who seek Him.
@@GospelSimplicity Also forgot to mention that if you want to attend a Divine Liturgy or Vespers Service, look for an Orthodox church with services in English. It did not dawn on me when I was looking that some do not have them in English. I have no personal connection with an Orthodox church in Chicago, but I do know that Antiochian Orthodox (which I attend) and Orthodox Church in America mostly do their services in English. I did manage to watch a wonderful video of Father James from St Paul's Coptic Church in Chicago. He really seems kind and friendly. You can see him being interviewed by the 10 minute Bible Hour guy at th-cam.com/video/iRToju4rTTQ/w-d-xo.html and th-cam.com/video/zpbaZXRLWgE/w-d-xo.html and th-cam.com/video/xJUo6z_zdZw/w-d-xo.html and th-cam.com/video/YF_QHHp_Ts4/w-d-xo.html. The Coptic Church has the same beliefs as Orthodox. And Father James seems very, very nice. His church is at www.stpaulchicago.org/
After a long journey as an Evangelical, a YWAM missionary, an Anglican I became Orthodox 2 years ago. It’s been blessed but also a struggle. Gods grace has been continuously evident. I couldn’t escape or reconcile the binding realities of “the Faith” (singular) of the early church, the Fathers, and the theological and fiercely sacramental and incarnational reality of their faith. I found that when I looked elsewhere, I only found “pieces” or a incoherent worldview. God is unchanging ...Truth is ever unchanging. Happy Journey Friend!
Thanks for sharing some of your journey! I’m sure that has been difficult at times. God bless!
My brother was YWAM long ago in Cyprus and is an Orthodox Deacon.
Good to see that, brother. I left Protestantism for Orthodoxy. Something I never thought I would do. I am happy now that I did :)
Glad you enjoyed it!
Excellent video. I’m a convert to Orthodoxy from a mixed Protestant background. It hasn’t always been easy, but so worthwhile
Thanks for sharing!
As a young boy I attended a Catholic school. The neighborhood was very diverse. The local orthodox school only went to the 6th grade so many of the greek orthodox students would come to the catholic school for Jr. High. I need to thank our educators, the nuns, brothers and priest because of the influx of orthodox students not only did they educate us in our own faith but helped us to appreciate our orthodox brothers and sisters. Many times the local orthodox priest would be asked to teach or to talk to us about their faith. I can still remember they time they brought our class over to the Orthodox church and "showed us" around. As the priest would explain things to us, even as a youngster I thought we are really not that different. I also developed a love for the iconography that was displayed throughout the church. My first real introduction to religious art, though my own church was filled with murals and art. I developed some life long friendships with my orthodox friends one that has done nothing but enrich me and strengthen me as I have grown in y own faith and understanding of God. The point of all this is simple, while their are differences in all religions, the more we grow and understand each other the more we come to know we are "all sinners seeking salvation". Yes we are different in our expression of our belief but we are all one in our love and devotion to Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. So my thanks to you for using this platform to encourage others to discover the richness and the beauty that lie within the history of christianity and its challenges to follow Jesus Christ.
It's truly my pleasure to use this platform in such a way. Thank you so much for sharing both your story and your thoughts. It was truly beautifully said. God bless
It is the same faith. Just politics stopping full proper re-unification...the mutual excommunications have been lifted for a long time now.
Greetings from Greece! Good luck on your journey! A trip to Mount Athos will open your eyes to a whole new world.
Merry Christmas!
Merry Christmas!
Fr George Mastakas is indeed a treasure to those of us who know and love him.
You know him too? He’s great!
I converted to orthodox church about five years ago...found many answers to questions I had all my life...and then found a more loving and merciful God...blessings
Interesting to hear. Thanks for sharing!
Hi Austin! My name is catie and I grew up orthodox. I went to an evangelical college and had a serious faith crisis while there because my friends seemed so much more zealous compared to my experience growing up. However I then read the books for the life of the world by Alexander Schmemann and courage to pray by Anthony bloom. These books convinced me that orthodoxy as a religion is valid for postmodern people (which was also a concern of mine...the emphasis on ritual). Throughout my twenties I held fast to the orthodox church and grew into an adult relationship with God. Putting him first, recognizing my dependence on him. Then I dated a catholic and started exploring Catholicism. I was really impressed by their academics, organization, and equal claims with the orthodox church (unbroken apostolic lineage). However because my orthodox heritage goes so deep and because I know my faith so well, I do not feel a need to convert to Catholicism. However I do want to be part of building up the orthodox church so that outsiders and people like me are not tempted to make ad hominem judgments on it. (Its so disorganized, superstitious or what have you). The church is my mother and I feel responsible towards her for the salvation I have found in her. Thank you so much for making this video and encouraging dialogue. I wish you all the best on your journey!
Thank you so much for sharing your experience! I really appreciate your perspective and love for the church
Catherine, I thought that too at certain points in my journey and almost “fell” for the RC too. Upon MUCH MUCH deeper investigation and research beyond what most do. I found out that RC is all fake news and heresy. They try to claim the same stuff, but eventually after
Much true discernment and research u will find the truth. I went through a time of confusion with it too. What they claim as negative things against us orthodox (though there are some things) but a lot of it is also actually a PLUS or not true. They really aren’t disorganized. But definitely come across as that more so. And I went thru those temptations too. Same with the mystical stuff. But in a sense it is more mystical yes and for a reason. There’s so much more. But don’t have time to elaborate on right now. But if your interested in further study or info I can give to you or point u in the right direction.
Your comment resonated with me. I feel passionate about bringing more awareness and Evangelism about the Orthodox Faith in this modern world too. Also a cradle Orthodox :)
I listened to Catholic Radio and Protestant Radio. I turned them off permanently when I heard lies or condemnations of others Christian or not. I tuned off Catholic Radio permanently when someone on it was going on and on about how the Orthodox dont kneel during Communion and don't pay enough respect to the Eucharist. It is true the Canons of the Church after the 7th Ecumenical Council require no kneeling on Sunday, a day that celebrates the Resurrection. As Orthodox we celebrate the Resurrection even i the night we commemorate the Crucifixion. Just like Saint Paul wrote there is no meaning to Christ and by extrapolation to the life of the Church without the Resurrection. It is also true that in Orthodox countries, every church holds Liturgy every day and on any day other than Sunday the no kneeling rule does not apply. These rules were also true for the Roman Catholics since they were instituted before the Schism, when they started to corrupt doctrine and practice historically. It is even further true that so as not to tempt our Catholic brothers, here in the States, where there are no daily Liturgies just some on special occasions, the Metropolitans have advised the Greek Orthodox kneel on Sundays. Those of us knowing about the Ecumenical Synod have a hard time breaking its rules. So the going on and on about the disrespectful Orthodox was a lie. Lies are of the devil. They divide us. I have stopped talking to Baptists that came to my door to proselytize me because they insisted the Catholics cannot be our brothers because they are snakes and they acknowledged no positive change in the Catholic Church since the Reformation. My best friend is a Baptist and she is a living Saint. Christ lives in her and through her and she is pure Joy. Dr H, Harvard Ph.D. is so busy doing the work of God she does not have time to think Doctrine but I would gladly borrow one of her many tickets to Heaven. She is a Colossus who spreads love abundant to anyone lucky enough to stand near her. I tuned off Protestant Radio when the hosts of a show wished California to fall in the Ocean. That was a political statement. Absolutely mean spirited. There is tons of faithful people in California as elsewhere. But in the Orthodox Church we pray for our enemies first . Bless and do not curse, says the Lord. It is impossible for any of us to be perfect but lack of love and lies are hard pills to swallow. I love what you do Austin. Talking to each other with love is what we should be doing and you are managing to balance on tight ropes.
Hey man, I just wanted to say I'm really impressed with not only your openness to exploring Christian traditions outside of your own, but even more so how you've handled yourself and communicated with the E. Orthodox and Catholics in the comments section. I was baptized into the Orthodox Church this past summer with zero previous church experience and over a decade of involvement in the occult, just for a reference. Christ be with you, brother. And good strength!
Wow, thanks so much, Nathan. God bless!
Good video! I’m Eastern Orthodox and have long complicated history behind it. I was raised Protestant (had a stint in Catholicism as well) and converted to Eastern Orthodoxy. This past February I was baptized and received into the Church. Best decision my wife and I ever made. If you’d like to dialogue or know anything more about this, or the Church let me know.
Thank you for sharing a bit of your story! It sounds like it was a fascinating journey
Its Catholicism where Orthodox Christianity comes from.. THE HOLY EUCHARIST IS CENTRAL TO OUR FAITH AS CATHOLICS!
@@SmithsnMoz actually the other way around. But similar faith yes.
God has blessed you to find this at your young age. I love that you found that we have spiritual ancestors that can inform us and help us deepen our relationship with God. I was over 60 before I came into the Orthodox Church. God is with us through his grace and love for mankind.
Indeed he has
Orthodoxy - simply put - is the fullness of the Christian Faith. Good luck on your journey!
Thanks!
Thanks for this...very glad for your openness and willingness to engage with Orthodoxy and Orthodox folk! I discovered Orthodoxy in my last year at Wheaton College (through reading historical theology and Dostoevsky(!)), and I'm always glad when Protestants begin to study Church history and to ask probing questions about the roots of Christianity. I can assure you that the rabbit hole is very, very deep...may God continue to guide you (and all of us)! In answer to your question...if you'd ever like to discuss Orthodoxy, please let me know!
You might like to read the book: Father Seraphim Rose: His Life and Works
Thanks!
I agree ...wonderful book.
@vesko s he never goes in mount Athos father serafim he.was in platina California
We love him in Russia. He is a huge influence in my life in particular.
I an EO after 62 years as an American protestant of varied branches.
I am 10 years “Home” now, & at peace. God bless you in your pathway of life - love your aporoach❣️
I was born into Greek Orthodoxy and really appreciate your respectful commentary.
Thanks!
Hi, Austin. I'm from Romania. I've just listened your interview with father Josiah Trenham about the Eastern Orthodox Theology and I was so excited. I graduated The Orthodox Faculty of Alba Iulia so I had that familliar feeling of listening the same crisp and clear Theology that father Josiah has spoked about. That is why Orthodox Christianity is special because it has the same teachings from the beginning in every place of the world. Every local Church is somehow different thru its local traditions, but the dogmas are the same no mather the place or time. Listening what father Josiah says remembered me the same Theology I've learned in this other place of the world, Romania. Truely, Orthodoxy is ecumenical.
Also, I'm grateful
for what you are doing. May God bless all of us. Wish you the best. 🙏🏻
PS: Sorry for my poor English.
Your english is great! Glad you enjoyed the video!
The Lord bless you and keep you. The Lord shine his face on you
Questions from Orthodox to non-Orthodox (heterodox):
1. When did believers like you appear?
2. Who founded, laid the foundation for your creed and created the first as your community?
3. Who so believed (like you) in the 1,2,3 and until the 16th century ? Name at least one person for every century.
4. Does your creed resemble the teachings of the Apostles and their successors?
5. Do you have any succession from the Holy Apostles or some kind of connection with the ancient Christian Church?
6. How many times and how has your creed changed?
7. Is there evidence that a soul who professes and believes like you was saved after death, that is, escaped hell and was rewarded with the kingdom of heaven?
8. Who are heretics? (Tit. 3: 10,11; Gal. 5: 19-21 Give examples of heretics).
9. Who are the sectarians? (Matthew 18: 17. Give examples of sectarians).
10. What is your teaching on the Church of Christ? (Tell us about the properties of the Church. How do you interpret the second hemisphere of the Gospel of Matthew 16: 18 “... I will create My Church, and the gates of hell will not prevail against it”)
Interesting your view on the history of the Christian Church, so give a very brief overview of the life of the Church in history .
Orthodox Faith thanks for the list!
Orthodox Faith You just hit the nail on the head for me. Thank you.
Can I copy that and use that? I found this as a really well format for questions for Protestants, If not that’s alright. God bless you!
Bravo... God bless you
I was born into Orthodoxy and I'm now a converted baptist.
1. What do you mean by that? Do you mean Christians? They started to call themselves like that about 2k years ago in Antioch (Acts 11:26)
2. I believe it's the First Council of Nicaea that adopted the creed I believe in. And the Bible canon is formed organically. And the Councils of the Church bishops have acknowledged it.
3. Again, I don't fully understand your question. Are you asking to name brothers and sisters in Christ for every century AD?
4. Yes, it does.
5. I believe I do, but it doesn't really matter to me.
6. Once. When I grew up and could decide for myself.
7. There's no hard "evidence" that a soul even exists. This is why it's called faith.
8. Heretics are people who don't follow the teachings of Christ and/or Apostles and claim to be Christians. Examples by name?
Patriarch Kirill of Moscow, a Russian Orthodox bishop.
9. Not sure what does Matthew 18: 17 has to do with sectarians. But from my understanding, any person who tries to divide a church (locally or on the larger scale) on the basis of personal authority (1 Corinthians 1: 12) or other non-heretical reasons.
10. You're asking to describe a centuries-long theological argument in a comment on TH-cam. That's impossible.
I believe the Church of Christ is a group of people saved by God's grace who Christ will take from the Earth when he comes a second time. A local gathering of people who are born again and follow Christ's and the Apostles' teachings is also called a church.
To better understand Matthew 16: 18 you might want to look at how God treated Israel in the Old Testament. It's called a chosen people that God promised to keep and multiply, yet God punishes them and lets other nations destroy the foundations of their country numerous times just to reborn it again with new people who obey His commandments. Sometimes it's just a handful of people (Romans 11: 4). The Christian Church is similar to a certain degree. Throughout history, it has fallen into heresies, tolerated many sins that are still present in the biggest branches of the Church (including but not limited to the Catholic and Orthodox churches), and therefore lost the presence of God. But there's a handful of God's people who are and have been "worthy" (Revelation 3: 4) at any given point of history and these people comprise the Church.
I know I can't cover all the aspects of my beliefs in a TH-cam comment, and there are flaws in this text as well, but that's how I see it.
I do love your chanel.
Greetings from Brazil and God bless you🙏🏻
P.S. I'm an Orthodox Christian and I've loved to see a protestant interested in other Christian denominations.
God bless you🌹
Glad you're enjoying it!
Converted from Roman Catholic to Orthodox 24 yrs ago- best decision I’ve ever made❤️
Thanks for sharing!
Next to marrying my wife, becoming Orthodox is the best decision I’ve ever made.
Awesome video!! I was baptized Catholic but have become drawn to the Orthodox Church..it consumes my thoughts and has given me such a deep love for Jesus and our history as a church. The lives of the saints humble me and are a source of inspiration in my devotion to Christ!!
May God bless you!I pray for u to find the true Church of Christ.
That's really interesting to hear!
Love your videos. Love the respect you show. It is something so rarely seen today. It comes down to humility. And you are a humble person. I think it was Saint Porphyrios who said that in order to enter Heaven, one needs two wings: love and humility.
I grew up in the Reformed church. In 2012 I started studying church history and in 2013 I attended an Orthodox Church for the first time. The moment I walk into the Church and heard the chanting, smelled the incense, and saw the icons, I knew I was home. My family and I got Baptized and Chrismated on April 12, 2014.
Orthodoxy truly is the fullness of the faith.
Thank you for devoting so much of your time to introduce Orthodoxy to your viewers.
Christ is Risen!
Truly He is Risen!
I am also an ex charismatic Pentecostal pastor, Bishop, missionary, and evangelist for decades! I was hard core too...praying in tongues, casting out demons, manifesting divine healings, all that. (Very zealous on fire 🔥 type).
I came across Orthodoxy and it was game over for me! Everything I was missing and looking for in Christianity my entire life, I found. The beauty, the divineness, the history, being so ancient and historical with apostolic succession, learning the FULL church history, and answers to many lifelong questions I always had. It ALL made sense finally! Though I knew I was home right away; I still took my time and read, studied, researched, visited churches and monasteries, talked to priests and monks, attended liturgy and catechisms from both RC and EO (for 5 years!) until I came to a point where I couldn’t turn back. I knew that I then knew too much (and the truth pointed to EO church) and couldn’t in good faith remain in the Evangelical faith any longer.
I resigned and shut down my own church and International evangelistic ministry, my radio program, and all my outreaches to enter the One Holy Catholic Apostolic (Orthodox) Church! I’m even more convinced and happy now that I did than ever. Still growing and learning daily. There is so much to learn...endless depth! I’m still here 6 years later..
Christ is Risen! Christos Anesti! 🙏🏽☦️
Thanks for sharing your story! Sounds like quite the journey
Thanks for sharing! I’m an Orthodox priest, and if you have any questions that I might be able to help with or clarify, let me know.
Thank you so much!! I might take you up on that!
Gospel Simplicity Anytime. Hit me up at frmichael@stjohnfortwayne.org. Thanks again for doing these sorts of videos, which help people break misconceptions and deepen their own faith journey.
I have several questions for you Fr. Michael. I am a former Russian Orthodox Christian. I converted to an SDA (Seventh Day Adventist) several years ago when I was 40. My husband is an Adventist too but from birth. Here are my questions: 1. How do I find peace in praying before an image (icons), venerating the icons and the dead (incorruptible) bodies of saints? I never liked venerating dead saints when I was an Orthodox, now I can’t even think of doing that.
2. How do I deal with intersession of other saints and ask them to pray for me when I can’t even be sure they are in heaven? What if they are not in heaven? Can I be wasting my time asking for their help? Isn't Jesus our only mediator between God and us?
3. How do I deal with the fact that I should get communion from the same cup with other people? Are there any Orthodox churches that use individual cups (glasses) for each parishioner?
4. How do I deal with the fact that I must call the Patriarch his holiness when only God is holy? How can a person be named holy while he is still alive? Can anyone know for sure they will go to heaven? I thought not.
I REALLY need to know answers to these questions because it bothers me when I feel awesome (really blessed and at peace) listening to vespers online but can’t do things that all Orthodox believers do anymore.
@@SakranMM God Bless you, Father!
Την ευλογία σας πάτερ
Austin...You are on the right track...There is so much to learn and I am supportive of your efforts in sharing your experiences. God Bless...Norm
Norman Cyr thank you so much, Norm. I really appreciate your support. Excited to have you as part of the community here on this channel
Hey, brother! Greetings from the country of Georgia (also EO). You're on the right path. May the Christ bless you.
I grew up in an Evangelical/Protestant church, but converted to Orthodoxy when I was 24. (That was 18 years ago). I just love watching your heart-felt journey into the Fathers and the history of the Christian Church. Your warmth and good-naturedness are endearing, but what really is astounding if your intellectual honesty, ability to reason through hard arguments, and most of all, your humility in the process. May God bless you as you continue on your own journey. Another Orthodox priest to consider interviewing is Fr. Andrew Stephen Damick (read his book Orthodoxy and Heterodoxy!), as well an Orthodox convert from Southern Baptist, Dr. Clark Carlton (author of "The Way" "The Truth", "The Life" and "The Faith" series...four different books). I have found personally that Orthodoxy gets to the heart of true spirituality... the services, the lives of the Saints, holy readings, etc. Would also LOVE to see more interviews with Fr. Seraphim Aldea!
Another couple of incredible interviewees - if you can land them - would be (1) Frederica Matthewes-Green (prolific Orthodox author and priest's wife), as well as (2) the Bible Answer Man - Hank Hanegraaff, who converted to Orthodoxy almost 4 years ago. He is incredibly knowledgeable about both Scripture and Tradition, and has written numerous books, his latest of which is "Truth Matters, Life Matters More." His heart is truly beautiful. Highly recommend!
A very balanced video. Thanks for this! Lutheran to Orthodox convert.
Glad it was helpful!
I'm Russian Orthodox living in Northern DE and that's so cool because I know where that church is!!! :D
Small world! That’s awesome
@@GospelSimplicity Loved your video too! I was raised Orthodox but had a brief stint at a Baptist college in Minneapolis. Videos like this help give me language to talk to my Protestant friends!
Greetings from small (geographically) europian country named Serbia, but big for Christian Legacy. Student from Orthodox Faculty in Belgrade wishes you many luck in your search and journey. Great Enthusiasam (with big E).
Glad you’re here!
Just discovered your channel relating to my recent contact with an Eastern Orthodox .. you’ve helped me value my Protestant roots and also not be threatened by other flavours of our faith. Thank you
Austin, I like how open minded you are. I’m looking forward to listening to more on your research. God bless!
Thanks for the kind words! I'm grateful to have you as part of the community here on this channel
Amazing video! I am a recent convert to the orthodox faith. This is my 1st year as an onthodox christian. I also had never heard about church fathers anywhere else, although I grow up in the catholic faith. I am still digging into them. There is so much to read. But I really love that despite the the works of the church fathers be so rich in intelectual contente, they also have an incredible spiritual dimention attached to it. Thanks for this video and for your openess! :)
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So sad u didn't know ur Catholic faith very well. As a revert to Catholicism after 35+ MIA yrs I'm learning bout early Church Father's, getting "re-born" via the RCIA program. What a mystery of our Good Lord Jesus for leading many, many catholics into different paths.
Thank you for this testimony. God bless you.
Converted to Orthodox Church nearly 14 years ago now. It’s not a perfect place on the human level, but I have found the very fullness and depth of the Truth is preserved in this earthen vessel. I have no other spiritual place I can truly call home on this earth. I’m grateful for what my Protestant and Evangelical heritage gifted me, but I also have never looked back from a theological or liturgical perspective. This is the true spiritual home of everyone seeking the fullness of Christ.
Did you know that your name, Austin, is a version of Augustine? Glad you're finding out about the great Saint of that name!
I didn't!
The 'Popular Patristics' series are something I have recently been getting my teeth into (published by Saint Vladimir's Seminary Press); in addition, for some good Church history, I would read - if you haven't already - Jaroslav Pelikan's works. I too am a Protestant, but the EOC are so deep that I think I could spend years studying their theology!
Thanks for the recommendation! I'll have to look into his works. I agree, there's so much there
I grew up evangelical but I'm making the transition to Eastern Orthodoxy! The man who had the biggest impact on that decision was Fr. Josiah, who I know you interviewed in a previous video. I think for me, seeing the history of the faith and seeing how there was a church with continuity going all the way back really drew me in. Then seeing the richness and fullness of the Orthodox faith really blew me away.
Thanks for sharing some of your story! I'm sure Fr. Josiah would be honored to hear that he's impacted you in this way. God bless!
@@GospelSimplicity I see him every week for church but I think I'd be too embarrassed to tell that to him in person
@@brandon8214 I understand that, but I think it’s great to let people know how they’ve impacted you!
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I would recommend listening to Fr James Mikhail , coptic Orthodox priest, on Ten Minute Bible Hour , by pastor Matt (Baptist).
I LOVE Ten Minute Bible Hour. One of my favorite channels
Agreed Father James was super inspirational. It was humbling to hear him. Thanks Austin for your channel. Love from the UK.
Eu acho que estamos chegando a um momento muito interessante da cristandade. Muita coisa provavelmente nos próximos anos, visto que com a internet, barreiras até outrora "intransponíveis" têm sido derrubadas. Que cristianismo vamos ter nos próximos 100 anos? É uma boa pergunta.
Also check out Father Lazarus the Coptic monk living in complete solitude
.
Father Peter Heers is awesome as well
I’m a “cradle” orthodox and despite that, it took a lot of searching to embrace the faith. I admire your openness to seeking for Truth.
Thanks!
I am a cradle Catholic, I noticed that Catholic become modernize and many of us are hurting but we embraced it for the sake of the Love of God, as Jesus our Savior. If we have Orthodox Church around here, that is where we will go. Some of my church member willing to drive an hour to have Mass. that’s how much our desires to align with the true faith!
Thanks for sharing your experience
This is exactly my experience. Theology graduate also from the Protestant Evangelical side, it was always as if the Holy Spirit took a vacation for 1500 years after Acts and then went back to work when Martin Luther came along. I'm seriously considering conversion to the Orthodox Church.
Was RC for 67 years. Converted to Orthodoxy 3 days before my 68 birthday. I am home.
I'd love to hear why!
As a cradle Catholic I didn't know most of these things. I just believed what I learned as a child until people like you decided to delve into catholicism so thank you for your persistence.✝️✝️✝️👍🙏
It’s my pleasure!
Austin, you will find that many people have made the same discovery that you have. It is a wonderful journey. I made a similar 'discovery' when God put a convert Orthodox priest in my life.
Although I live in So. Calif. I know you are lucky to be so close to some incredible Eastern Orthodox resources. One is just a few miles east of you in the next town over, Union Bridge. I urge you to go to the Sacred Monastery of St. Nina and visit the nuns there. You will find Abbess Aemilane there. She, as are all of the nuns there, a rich resource of knowledge. I believe that every nun there has, at least, a bachelor's degree. Almost all have graduate degrees. Gerontissa (the Abbess) has a PhD from Harvard before she became a nun.
Blessed journey, brother.
Thanks for the recommendation! I’ll look into it!
@@GospelSimplicity, the presence of Orthodoxy in America is not something new. It started from Russian orthodox churches which were founded in Alaska during the 18th century and some of those churches still exist. I think this is quite interesting just like every unknown story.
Same here. I have a buddy who is Greek Orthodox. I attended seminars at his church. I learned a lot.
That's great!
So eloquent and so good. Many thanks!
Well done. You barely scratched the surface of an incredible topic and did so in a intellectually honest way. Thank you
My pleasure!
What a beautiful video! The Church Fathers and history had a huge impact on me during our journey into Orthodoxy.
When I realized I had a very distorted (Calvinistic) view of God and that God actually LOVED me - and indeed Loves everyone - it shook me to the core; obviously in a good way but in a very humbling way.
It was this admission that I bring to bear my own prejudices onto the Bible and onto my view of its meanings that made me start to ask, "So how can I know what's right?" Because if I simply end up stopping where I'm comfortable or with what I think sounds most logical then I have become my own Pope. I am the final authority and so therefore I have put myself above the Scriptures.
Somewhere in this I realized that the Bible itself doesn't claim to be the authority. In fact it says The Church is the authority - the pillar and foundation of Truth. It also promises that the Faith delivered once and for all will remain unchanged and united. Not in a "we all believe in Jesus so are part of the invisible church somehow" sort of way but in an actual, definable, historical way.
So I started looking to what has been believed about scripture always, everywhere, by everyone. This took me back way before the Restoration movement... way before the Reformation... into the Faith of the Ancient Church. And there I found undisturbed continuity with interpretation of scripture.
Admittedly MUCH of what was said was contrary to what I thought or what I liked or what I was comfortable with. But that was exactly why I was there in that place of humility. Was I willing to accept what has always been believed and taught by The Church? Or was I going to continue to say, "No... I understand this but of scripture differently so therefore I must be more wise than all of this historical, and still present, continuity of understanding."
In the end I had to submit to the authority the Bible gives as authority... and in doing so I realized I was submitting, maybe finally, to Christ.
Thank you so much for sharing your story! I really appreciate that
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Thank you Austin for your many wonderful podcasts. I was raised Budhist but then to Protestant Christianity at the age of 22 yrs. old. After words I went to Bible College to prepare to serve God. In my Senior yr. I heard the claims of the Orthodox Church for the 1st time. I had early on asked for the grace to follow Christ & His truth wherever it lead me. I had begun to understand my Christianity in a more liturgical & sacramental expression. So I visited Catholic mass & was blessed by the writings of Mother Theresa. However my soul still was yearning for a greater reverence & mystical union with God. This began a very long journey into the One Holy Apostlic Church. Side note our perceived intelligence can often be a hindrance to union with God. It wasn't until the birth of my sixth child, that was born with a often terminal illness that I took the needed step of faith. I believe you are on the path to a wonderful journey. We in the Orthodox Church pray in our Confessional prayers, "Christ is my power & Lord doth the August Church sing. Keeping perfect step & time with the Lord." May we all be found worthy to sing His universal praises!
Hey man, enjoyed the last two videos. Not many Protestants who would do this. Bravo.
I'm Catholic revert from Presbyterianism. It was the ECFs for me that spoke loud enough to me to let me know it wasn't in the ancient faith.....fully. Keep up the good work.
I left the protestant church 16 years ago and became orthodox...best choice I ever made.
Thanks for sharing!
Your heart is so cool. Thank you for your humility, honesty, and LOVE FOR JESUS!!
I so appreciate that. Thanks for your kindness!
GS, I just want to say that I love your spirit of inquiry, and I really enjoy and respect your videos. May Our Lord God continue to Bless you!
Thanks!
I loved the tour and interview you did with the priest in Chicago. I had the same experience learning about the church fathers and church history. There are some great heros like St. Ambrose. It had never even occured to me to think about the people that knew John or Peter because it was talked about so little.
You are a very nice young man and I enjoy listening to you. U just popped up one day while listening to other TH-cam Catholic speakers one day and listened to the story about u and the Catholic Bible study. I just liked and subscribed and look forward to more. Keeping doing what ur doing God bless you.
Thank you so much for your kind words! I'm so glad that you found the channel and are enjoying it. I'm grateful to have you as a part of the community here on this channel! God bless
I admire your sincerity. You inspire people to return to the one Church of Christ. God bless you and greetings from beautiful Greece!
Thanks! God bless you too
I'm very grateful for this Sapien's contributions. Bless you, Austin.
I love your humble approach!
"The Fathers Know Best" by Jimmy Aikin is a great resource that's easy to read. Highly recommend it. Keep up the good work Austin.
Thanks!
The letters of Ignatius of Antioch changed my life and worldview. They are readily available and I highly recommend them!
Edit: I was raised non-denominational, eventually became Lutheran (LCMS). From there, I considered Roman Catholicism, but "went east" and became Orthodox instead.
The writings of the Eastern Fathers such as Basil the Great, Cyril of Alexandria, and John Chrysostom radically changed my understanding of Christ and the faith He imparted unto us when He established His Church in Matt. 16 and gave His disciples the keys to safeguarding the truth. No, Jesus did not necessarily start a new religion, but He did establish a Church. The question is, is that Church still around, and if it it, where is it? The answer is yes, that Church is still around, and she is found in Orthodox Christianity.
@Joshua M. Wherley
Jesus said He would build His Church on "that rock" while He was close to Mt. Hermon (Mat. 16), thus reflecting on the place and not Peter or Himself, where according to the Jewish tradition, the Watchers came and plotted to mate with women and produce abomination (Gen. 6:-14). At the foothill of the mountain - and you can check this fact - there are still remains of the pagan deities' altars, thus making Jesus' claim as proclaiming a spiritual war against these gods. Furthermore, there was a cave at the entrance of the mountain that was called "the gates of hell." Jesus promised to build His Church on that mountain; basically on the top of the entrance of "hell"! No physical Church today derives from Mt. Hermon. 🙂
Additionally, as we read in Acts 2, no Church today seems to be like the original, ancient, primitive church - a small number of believers gathered in private homes, having a leader, breaking bread, praying together, and sharing the gospel and witnessing together on the streets. If anything, those small house non-denominational churches with pastors who have 5-10-15-20 people under themselves, who zealously serve God and the local community are MUCH CLOSER to that First Church from Acts 2 than any Church organization/institution today.
The first Church was:
apostolic - but not like modern Charismatic Apostolic churches are;
catholic/one/united - but not like Roman Catholics are;
orthodox/true - but not like Eastern Orthodox are;
evangelical/biblical because they studied the Old Testament and orally passed information about Jesus who just ascended so it was still early to have the written gospels - but not like Evangelical/Protestant churches are.
Conclusion? The Early/First Church was not like today's churches so it's subjective and biased that whichever church claims to be "the first/true church"; rather, it's more like those small house churches we see, which aren't great in number or financial power or space, but have the Holy Spirit, live for the Lord, and spread their faith and love to the needy in their community, ready to be persecuted and die for their faith. They are the closest to the original Church. No icons, no air conditioning, no coffee, no parking lot, no speakers and microphones, no musical instruments, no section to sell things/books; nothing but people, God, and simple space.
@@TheNikolinho as someone who attended a home church for over three years I strongly disagree. It was literally just a mini Protestant service once a week, if anything it was just a Protestant Bible study/book club with people who barely even read their Bible’s. Orthodoxy is the way and there is no going back now that I’ve found it.
@@LNR65 you can disagree, it's fine. every home church is different as every Protestant, RC, or EO church is different from each other. our Eo churches in Eastern Europe aren't exactly the same as EO churches in the West. home churches can be organized, led, or taught in dozens of different ways. for me, there's no fellowship, unity, love, or knowing each other, like in a small home church of max 50 people where everyone knows each other, where the bread is shared, the gospel preached, the community is singing to God, everyone prays to the Father in the name of the Son, and then believers fellowship with each other (and make plans for the outreach). that is THE closest model to the biblical model of churches. everything else came after that. all our rituals and traditions. i am not saying they are bad, but they weren't there in the original churches which Paul and others planted, and which were small, and where people gathered in someone's houses, attics, basements.
no one is against you becoming Orthodox. i saw my whole life my people being Orthodox and i am not into it. just don't propose a falsehood of Orthodoxy being "the way" cause only Christ is THE WAY. this is why i identity myself primarily as a child of God rather than this or that church. all of them have many flaws (yet God accepts us and washes us!!!)
Another great video! I’m so here for this journey
Emily Spieker thanks Emily! Grateful to have you as a part of the community on this journey
I admire what you’re doing-the research and objectivity of your content; after viewing 2-3 of your videos, I subscribed just now!
Thanks! Grateful to have you as a part of the community here at Gospel Simplicity! I look forward to hearing more of your thoughts in the future
4:55-5:15 - dang it I was laughing so hard lol. That seems to be sooo true with many Christians. I must confess I myself used to act the same way.
Such a great video man. I can relate to the majority of your thoughts. I am a Protestant, but theologically consider myself an orthodox.
Don’t stop running this channel.
I definitely need to smash that subscription button 🙌🏼
Haha glad you can relate! Thank you so much for watching and leaving such encouraging feedback. I really appreciate that. Glad to have you as part of the community here on this channel!
Gospel Simplicity of course bro. Love what you are doing, keep it going. God bless ya!
Love from Ethiopan orthodox 🙏 God bless you
Thanks!
I'm feeling crazy 🤪
Im' already subscribed but I hit the notification button which I rarely do on you tube. Thank you, Austin, I enjoy hearing about your journey. It's very similar to mine in some aspects. I'm 63 years old I've been a follower of Christ since I was 14. Feels like my journey's been a long windy path from charismatic fundamentalism, to evangelical and now seriously looking at the eastern Catholic and Orthodox traditions.. So thankful for the things I've learned especially about the church fathers. It is a whole new world.... So much is opened up to me also and I feel like the journey is just begun. I have your video on the Ignatius and the examen in my cue.
I also enjoyed your interview with Jonathan Pageau. I subscribe also to his channel and it was great seeing you both exchange ideas and insights.
I love your open mind, willingness to learn and how you encourage other people to do this. Great channel!
Thanks!
Great video man!
The hands down greatest book I’ve ever read is the Orthodox classic Wounded by Love - The Life and Wisdom of the Elder Porphyrios.
Thanks!
I really like you because you are not one of those people who are fanatics and do not let people say their opinion. Keep up the good work.
Thanks!
What a kind and thoughtful presentation on our faith. And you couldn't have found a better priest to dialogue with. Fr. George is truly a gem. May your journey be blessed. In Christ- fr.seraphim ivey
Thank you! Yes, he’s wonderful
@@GospelSimplicity He was my classmate at the Greek Orthodox Seminary out in Brookline, MA. (I am a convert to Orthodoxy (in large part to my reading the Church fathers) and have been a priest for the past 3 years.)
God is calling us to the Holy, Catholic and Apostolic Church Orthodoxy ❤God bless our journey ❤
I really loved this video! You were so open minded to learning about the beauty of Eastern Orthodoxy. I’m actually Antiochian Orthodox (Fun fact: the first gentile church was founded in Antioch - acts 11 20-21). I really hope you attend an english mass one day, it’s mostly chanting of the books of Psalms as well as Trinitarian prayers. Great video!
I'm glad you enjoyed the video! I would love to attend a service one day. Thanks for watching and leaving encouraging feedback!
Very Humble young man of God. I pray All Christians including myself can become more and more humble, learn from each other and truly become one just as the Lord intended. ✝️♥️🕊🙏
Thanks!
Hi! Have a good journey. Don't forget to pray for guidance as you go. At the end of the road you will find the Guide. Then you will have to strive to keep Him. I have done the journey too. May God bless you.
So glad of my reformed Presbyterian and Pentecostal background but blessed I have found The Orthodox Church!
Thanks for sharing! I'm glad you can still appreciate them while valuing your own position
Another thing about the Church Fathers is that they were the ones who determined what books of the bible are canonical, something to consider for protestants.
A Protestant would want to say "recognized" not "determined" but it's worth thinking about in any case
@@GospelSimplicity they had a criteria, which under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, included all books that have always been read, by all Christians, everywhere and which according the Holy Tradition (or the life of the Holy Spirit in the Church) could be authentically attributed to their claimed authors. It would have seemed good to them and the under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, to include the books that form the New Testament. This movement of the life of the Holy Spirit can also be seen during the Council of Jerusalem when the Council ruled not to require pagan converts to the Faith to first be circumcised. i.e. : '.........For it seemed good to the Holy Ghost, AND TO US, to lay upon you no greater burden than these necessary things'. (Acts 15:28). The Church is lead by the Holy Spirit in all Truth and the gates of hell will not prevail against her. To only confess some decisions by the Councils, while discarding if not demonizing others is hypocritical and intellectually dishonest. Nit aimed at you as I found your handling of a very complex matter balanced and honest in every sense.
I was raised in atheistic family. Came to faith in Christ when i was teenager. Was baptized in Orthodox Church in Russia. I didn't know much about the Church. I became a Protestant in Russia and learned a lot about Bible and Christianity. Then much later i started to study Holy Tradition and Holy Fathers, about Saints and Orthodoxy in general. I realized that Orthodox Church has a fulness of salvation in it. True Body of Christ. At age 36 i returned to Orthodox Church and was chrismated, was accepted back to Orthodoxy, and since then i never looked back. Protestantism for me is like 1st grade comparing to University. There can't be church without Liturgy and Sacraments. Church was always liturgical. Orthodox Church was established by Christ, Holy Spirit and 12 Apostles. No other church can be invented. Only Orthodox Church doesn't teach heresies. The best videos in English i found about it was "Orthodoxy 101 Bootcamp", 5 lectures by Fr Barnabas, all 5 of them are amazing. Highly recommend.
Thanks so much for sharing all this! I'll try to check them out!
@@GospelSimplicity 3d one is little complicated, it's on Holy Trinity. But 1,2,4 and 5th are very easy to understand, very informative and entertaining. Father Barnabas used to be an Evangelical Protestant. Now Greek Orthodox priest. He has great sense of humor. :)
Orthodox church was not established by Christ because Jesus and apostles were practising Jews. Christianity term was used much later, at first people were messianic Jews. First three centuries Christianity was united and it was not religion. In third century it becomes religion by Constantine. Liiturgy and sacraments were introduced between third and eight century.
@@iaindj it's all lies. Church was always liturgical. Liturgy is mentioned in Acts. If you read Greek you' ll see this word plainly there. Church was established on Pentecost Day after Resurrection of Christ. He sent Holy Spirit on 12 Apostles and that's how Church began it's Mission. Christian's and Jew's practices were very different. Christians believed in Christ as Messiah, Jews didn't. Christianity IS religion, from the beginning, it has nothing to do with Constantine. It's complete nonsense what you say. Christian Church was united til 1054 which is 10 centuries, not 3.
@@nightowl3619 Early church continued jewish practice of the respect for Jewish scriptures using translation of Hellenistic Judaism among Greek speakers or Targums in Aramaic speakers. Church could not have been lithurgical when it has not organized as institution nor had their places of worship. It was persecuted and was meeting in houses or hidden places.
Great video - thank you for your humility.
Thank you for all you do!
I grew up in a non-religious secular home, became a Buddhist, and then converted to Holy Orthodoxy. Buddhism is the way of the mind and emptiness of the self, whereas Orthodox Christianity is the way of heart and emptying of the self.
Thanks for sharing your story!
I love this:
"whereas Orthodox Christianity is the way of heart and emptying of the self"
:-))))))))
Brother Austin, thank you for a great vid. I am 66 years old and a Cold War vet (Pershing Missles, whooah!). I have been a Christian since I was 10 or 11 but did not become passionate about my relationship with Christ until I was 17 or 18 during the Jesus People movement (You remind me of them by the way. Long hair, Levi's, granny skirts, and a deep devotion to God and love for others). As I hung out with them, I grew in my devotion to God. Chapter 3 of Acts that speaks of the followers sharing everything resonated with me VERY deeply. That stuck with me my whole life. About 7 years or so ago I had a little chat with God. I told Him that every church is part of a denomination. In addition, if the denomination that the church of Peter and Paul should still exist, I would run to it no matter what church or denomination l may belong to. Circumstances led me to seek a new church. For some reason I checked out Orthodoxy on TH-cam. I should add that I had given God 3 criteria to satisfy me that I had found the NT church l was searching for. First, as Christianity was sprung from the Jewish faith, it would possess similarities to temple worship, second, it would be free of the influence of American culture, and last it would not have any traits of Calvinism or reformation. My feeling was that in the beginning, in Jerusalem, following Christ's resurrection, there was only one church. I was seeking THAT church. Through convoluted circumstances I found that church and it met all my criteria. Thank you brother for a great vid. "One way!" And blessings.
Thanks for sharing your story! I'll take the comparison to the Jesus People Movement as a compliment. Glad you've found a church where you can grow in your faith
@@GospelSimplicity It most DEFINITELY was. Those were people who authentic right down to the marrow and had a deep and simple devotion to God. Blessings and... "ONE WAY."
Greetings from an orthodox christian brother from Bulgaria
Greetings!
May our Lord bless all of you who returned home.
Greetings from an Serbian Orthodox.☦
Thanks!
Not really sure how I found this video, but good stuff! I'm Eastern Orthodox and absolutely love my faith. The best thing about Holy Orthodoxy is that the moment you think you have it all figured out, you discover something new and beautiful.
One of my favorite quotes is, "O strange Orthodox Church, so poor and weak, with neither the organization nor the culture of the West, staying afloat as if by a miracle in the face of so many trials, tribulations and struggles; a Church of contrasts, both so traditional and so free, so archaic and so alive, so ritualist and so personally involved, a Church where the priceless pearl of the Gospel is assiduously preserved, sometimes under a layer of dust; a Church which in shadows and silence maintains above all the eternal values of purity, poverty, asceticism, humility and forgiveness; a Church which has often not known how to act, but which can sing of the joy of Pascha like no other." -Fr. Lev Gillet
Haha, the TH-cam algorithms can lead us to videos we never thought we'd find. In any case, glad you enjoyed the video! That's a truly beautiful quote
@@GospelSimplicity Thank you. May the Lord bless you greatly as you read and learn the teachings of the Church Fathers.
I loved that you said that Protestants shouldn't be afraid to read them. For they are indeed your Fathers in Faith as well.