Today is the second of a series of podcasts based on a class we teach here at St. Michael’s, called “Our Faith: Orthodox Christianity at St. Michael’s”. This set of classes is designed to explore Orthodox Christianity as it is practiced at St. Michael Ukrainian Orthodox Church. As such, it will cover the fundamental tenets of our faith as they are lived in our personal lives, our homes, our community, and our parish. The rest of the classes will be published as time permits.
Our Faith: Orthodox Christianity at St. Michael’s
Woonsocket, Rhode Island
Session Two: The ABC’s of Salvation through Christ and His Orthodox Church: why do we have all this stuff?
Opening Prayer: O Heavenly King the Comforter, Spirit of Truth, Who art ev’rywhere, Treasure of good and Giver of life. Dwell within us, Lord hear our prayer. Cleanse us from ev’ry impurity. Save our souls, God of mercy.
Opening Scripture: Psalm 8; Ephesians 2: 1-10
Summary of Scripture: The Glory, Power, and Love of God for us.
Today’s Lesson: The Basics of Orthodox Christianity
Questions for consideration:
• What is the role of God in your life?
• Are you enjoying life “in abundance”?
The Basics
• God is all powerful (Psalm 18: 1-3). He loves you (John 3:16-17). He has a plan for you (John 10:10 &2 Peter 1:2-4).
• Sin separates man from every good thing (Romans 3:23). There is an impassible chasm between us in our sin and God (Romans 6:23)
• Jesus Christ bridges the chasm between man and God (Ephesians 2:14). He is perfect God and perfect man. God before the ages, He became man so that we might be united with God, one another, and perfection (John 17:22-23). He died for us then rose from the dead (1 Corinthians 15: 3-4). Through faith in Him, we become children of God (John 1:12). He is the only bridge (John 14:6).
• We are crossing the chasm in and through Christ. Through Faith (Ephesians 2: 8-10), and a Sacramental life (e.g. John 6: 53-59). He comes to all who invite him (Revelation 3:20) . Continual progression in Christ, eternally (1 John 5:11-15). Trust Him to forgive us and live accordingly.
• Why sacraments? Why all this stuff? Because the BRIDGE IS REAL. CHRIST IS REAL. HE LIVES PHYSICALLY AND SPIRITUALLY IN HIS CHURCH (Colossians 1: 16-20). Jesus Christ was more than “idea”. Flesh and blood. The Church is also more than an idea. It is also physical. So are its mysteries (rituals, etc.)
◦ Each of the sacraments/mysteries is a living “symbol”, an incarnation of God’s redeeming love for us.
◦ Icons, too, are part of this continuing incarnation, as is the music, the temple, etc.
To grow in perfection, to have life in abundance, we must accept Christ and make him the center of our lives. Trust Him to “carry you across”. He will satisfy your yearning.
Discussion: What do each of the sacraments do for us?
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