Today’s Christian landscape is marked by differing theological foundations, spiritual practices, and approaches to worship. There is not a common view on what is necessary for salvation, eternal life in God’s kingdom. This brief article aims to highlight some of the significant differences between Orthodoxy and most Protestant traditions, differences that are profound and go to the heart of how each understands salvation and lives out the Christian life. Basic Agreements Let’s begin with what we share in common.   1. We agree on the central role of Jesus in salvation, believing in His ..read more

In Orthodoxy, we believe that salvation is not just a one-time declaration of faith, but a lifelong journey of becoming united with God, which we call theosis. This journey involves both faith and works, as Scripture teaches us that faith without works is dead (James 2:26). We see the sacraments, especially the Eucharist and Confession, as vital means of receiving God’s grace and growing spiritually. We also emphasize the role of spiritual disciplines like prayer and fasting, which help us align our lives with God’s will. This approach ensures that we are continuously transforming and growing ..read more

In Orthodox Christianity Scripture is not seen merely as text or tradition, but as a living, active force that engages and changes those who delve into its depths. The Word of God, particularly as expressed in the Gospel commandments, kindles a profound spiritual fire in the hearts of the faithful, enhancing their prayer life and drawing them closer to divine realities.The Transformative Effect of God's Word When believers delight in the Scriptures and meditate on the Gospel commandments, they find that these words are not static; they are "quickening"—they breathe life into those who embrace ..read more

Prayer is not merely a ritual or a duty; it is the very means by which the faithful may achieve union with God. Saint John of the Ladder eloquently describes prayer as "the converse and union of man with God," highlighting its profound and personal nature. This article explores how prayer facilitates this mystical union, the necessary conditions for its efficacy, and its role in the spiritual transformation of the believer.The Experience of Divine Presence in Prayer During prayer, especially when the believer invokes the name of the Lord Jesus with faith, he enters into a living, dynamic pres ..read more

Pride is described as a vast, impenetrable wall that blocks the light of the noetic sun—the divine wisdom and illumination of the Holy Spirit. Saint Sophrony, echoing the wisdom of ancient ascetics, identifies pride as the principal obstacle to spiritual enlightenment. It is termed an "ugly passion," a "dark abyss," and the "diabolic seed of death." Such descriptions underscore the grave spiritual danger that pride represents, casting it as the essence of hell itself. This dark passion not only alienates individuals from God but plunges the whole earth into the darkness of despair.Humility as ..read more

Repentance is more than mere remorse or self-reproach; it is a profound turning of one's entire being towards God, fueled by love and a sincere desire for divine union. It is the gateway through which the healing of the wounded human nature begins. Through repentance fallen man turns wholly to God, starting the process of fulfilling His commandments. As the Prophet Isaiah expressed in his prayer, seeking God earnestly even "in the night of sin" illuminates the soul with the divine commandments, which are themselves a light upon the earth. This imagery underscores the transformative power of G ..read more

In Orthodox Christianity, faith is not merely a set of beliefs but a dynamic and transformative encounter with the divine. It is through faith that one can truly engage with the personal God and begin a journey of profound self-discovery and transformation. This process involves coming into the light of Christ, where one's sins and falsehoods are laid bare, leading to a path of repentance and ultimately to salvation.Faith as the Gateway to Divine Light Faith serves as the essential prerequisite for establishing a personal relationship with God. It is through faith that individuals step into t ..read more

The ability to behold the Light of God’s Countenance, described as the Light of salvation, is intrinsically linked to the Incarnation of Christ. In Christ, "dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily" (Colossians 2:9). This profound mystery—that God became man and dwelt among us—enables humanity to encounter the divine Light. As prophesied and witnessed, "the people which sat in darkness saw great light" (Matthew 4:16), referring to the coming of Christ, the great Light entering earth’s history. This event ensures that nothing can annul God’s eternal will for humanity to bec ..read more

The experience of the Uncreated Light in Orthodox Christianity is not just a metaphor for spiritual enlightenment but a profound encounter that transforms the very essence of a person. This divine phenomenon, often described in the teachings and writings of the Church, provides a vivid glimpse into the transformative power of God's presence. The essence of this experience, as articulated by the Holy Elder and saints like Saint Sophrony, reveals the profound impact of divine illumination on human nature.The Experience of Divine Light and Victory over Death When one is deemed worthy to receive ..read more

In Orthodox theology, the concept of divine light serves as a central realty, illuminating the path of believers. The divine light, compared to the natural light of the sun, plays a crucial role in understanding our relationship with God and the entire cosmos.The Correspondence between the Created and Uncreated Light The analogy between the sun and the Divine Light is profoundly insightful. Just as the physical sun gives life to all creation, the Holy Light of the Lord's Countenance—His presence and essence—bestows spiritual life upon all reasonable creatures, including angels and humans. Thi ..read more