This document discusses the benefits of frequent reception of Holy Communion according to Orthodox Christian teachings. It provides quotes from several saints explaining that frequent Communion cleanses the soul from impurities, strengthens virtues, protects from demons, and helps one dwell in Christ. It encourages preparing well and receiving Communion as often as possible to receive divine grace and become more fervent in faith.
The document discusses the theological concept of the "intermediate state", which is the existence of believers between death and the universal resurrection. It explores Christian beliefs about judgment after death and the final judgment. While the Bible does not provide many details, it suggests that in the intermediate state, believers exist in a spiritual/non-corporeal form in heaven until being reunited with their physical bodies at the resurrection, based on Revelation 6:9 referring to martyrs under the altar as "souls". The intermediate state allows for believers to be with the Lord in heaven despite their bodies remaining in the grave until the resurrection.
This document discusses the doctrine of election, which has been a source of both comfort and controversy among Christians. It examines what Scripture says about election - that God chose certain people to be adopted as his children before the foundation of the world solely based on his grace and love. However, human reason has often tried to distort this doctrine. The document explores various views on election, such as Calvinism's doctrine of double predestination, concluding that both concepts of "universal grace" and "by grace alone" must be accepted based on Scripture alone. While mysterious, the doctrine of election is meant to point believers to Christ and encourage diligence in faith.
This document discusses the promises of healing found in the Bible and how Jesus' sacrifice allows believers to be healed. It makes three key points:
1) God desires to forgive all sins and heal all sicknesses through what Jesus accomplished on the cross according to verses like Psalm 103:2-3.
2) Jesus paid the full price for our spiritual and physical healing when He died for our sins so we could be made whole according to passages like 1 Thessalonians 5:23.
3) Healing belongs to believers today who have faith that Jesus purchased it and will demonstrate that faith in their thoughts, words and actions according to verses like Isaiah 53:5 and 1 Peter 2:24.
This document discusses justification and sanctification as experienced in the Christian life. It explains that justification has two parts: being declared forgiven and being transformed in the new birth. Sanctification also has two parts: being declared holy and growing in holiness over time. Obedience is a condition for receiving and maintaining justification and sanctification. While salvation is caused by God's grace, obedience places us where the saving power of Christ's death can be applied to us. Growth in sanctification is a continual process as we spend time with God and reflect more of His glory and holiness. Surrendering our will to God requires great effort both in initial justification and in the ongoing spiritual battle against self. Committing known sin separates us from
When i have a convenient season 1 29-12 sermonJames Bradshaw
Felix heard Paul reason about righteousness, self-control, and the coming judgment from the scriptures and was afraid. Felix told Paul to leave for now and said he would call for him again when it was convenient, hoping Paul would bribe him for his release. However, after two years a new governor replaced Felix and left Paul in chains to please the Jews.
This document discusses the biblical concept of sanctification. It explains that sanctification refers to the ongoing process by which Christians grow in moral perfection and righteousness through faith in Jesus Christ. The document outlines that while justification declares believers righteous through faith alone, sanctification is the active work of God and cooperation with the Holy Spirit to become more holy and Christ-like in thoughts and actions. It emphasizes several Bible passages that speak of putting off sinful desires and putting on righteousness as part of this sanctification process that continues until glorification when believers will be fully conformed to the image of Christ.
The document discusses Paul's eagerness to preach the gospel as revealed in Romans 1:17. It provides three key points:
1) The gospel reveals both God's power to save men and his righteousness in saving them, as he is righteous in both condemning all as sinners but also providing righteousness through faith alone.
2) The righteousness of God refers to all that God commands, demands, and provides through the gospel - a state of perfect conformity to his law and character.
3) The gospel makes known a righteousness from God through faith in Christ alone, not works, as God imputes Christ's righteousness to believers rather than anything they have done.
The document discusses the theological concept of the "intermediate state", which is the existence of believers between death and the universal resurrection. It explores Christian beliefs about judgment after death and the final judgment. While the Bible does not provide many details, it suggests that in the intermediate state, believers exist in a spiritual/non-corporeal form in heaven until being reunited with their physical bodies at the resurrection, based on Revelation 6:9 referring to martyrs under the altar as "souls". The intermediate state allows for believers to be with the Lord in heaven despite their bodies remaining in the grave until the resurrection.
This document discusses the doctrine of election, which has been a source of both comfort and controversy among Christians. It examines what Scripture says about election - that God chose certain people to be adopted as his children before the foundation of the world solely based on his grace and love. However, human reason has often tried to distort this doctrine. The document explores various views on election, such as Calvinism's doctrine of double predestination, concluding that both concepts of "universal grace" and "by grace alone" must be accepted based on Scripture alone. While mysterious, the doctrine of election is meant to point believers to Christ and encourage diligence in faith.
This document discusses the promises of healing found in the Bible and how Jesus' sacrifice allows believers to be healed. It makes three key points:
1) God desires to forgive all sins and heal all sicknesses through what Jesus accomplished on the cross according to verses like Psalm 103:2-3.
2) Jesus paid the full price for our spiritual and physical healing when He died for our sins so we could be made whole according to passages like 1 Thessalonians 5:23.
3) Healing belongs to believers today who have faith that Jesus purchased it and will demonstrate that faith in their thoughts, words and actions according to verses like Isaiah 53:5 and 1 Peter 2:24.
This document discusses justification and sanctification as experienced in the Christian life. It explains that justification has two parts: being declared forgiven and being transformed in the new birth. Sanctification also has two parts: being declared holy and growing in holiness over time. Obedience is a condition for receiving and maintaining justification and sanctification. While salvation is caused by God's grace, obedience places us where the saving power of Christ's death can be applied to us. Growth in sanctification is a continual process as we spend time with God and reflect more of His glory and holiness. Surrendering our will to God requires great effort both in initial justification and in the ongoing spiritual battle against self. Committing known sin separates us from
When i have a convenient season 1 29-12 sermonJames Bradshaw
Felix heard Paul reason about righteousness, self-control, and the coming judgment from the scriptures and was afraid. Felix told Paul to leave for now and said he would call for him again when it was convenient, hoping Paul would bribe him for his release. However, after two years a new governor replaced Felix and left Paul in chains to please the Jews.
This document discusses the biblical concept of sanctification. It explains that sanctification refers to the ongoing process by which Christians grow in moral perfection and righteousness through faith in Jesus Christ. The document outlines that while justification declares believers righteous through faith alone, sanctification is the active work of God and cooperation with the Holy Spirit to become more holy and Christ-like in thoughts and actions. It emphasizes several Bible passages that speak of putting off sinful desires and putting on righteousness as part of this sanctification process that continues until glorification when believers will be fully conformed to the image of Christ.
The document discusses Paul's eagerness to preach the gospel as revealed in Romans 1:17. It provides three key points:
1) The gospel reveals both God's power to save men and his righteousness in saving them, as he is righteous in both condemning all as sinners but also providing righteousness through faith alone.
2) The righteousness of God refers to all that God commands, demands, and provides through the gospel - a state of perfect conformity to his law and character.
3) The gospel makes known a righteousness from God through faith in Christ alone, not works, as God imputes Christ's righteousness to believers rather than anything they have done.
Part 3 of "The Amazing Grace" series at The Gathering Place by Don Nothnagel.
Excellent insights into the Bible's position on Christians and God's Judgment,
Ultimate Spiritual Fighting - Gods Provisions Part 2Robin Schumacher
The document discusses the full armor of God described in Ephesians 6. It provides explanations of each piece of armor including the belt of truth, breastplate of righteousness, shoes of peace, shield of faith, helmet of salvation, and sword of the spirit. It explores what these aspects of the armor represent and how they protect believers from spiritual attacks. The document also notes that one can expect attacks when pursuing spiritual growth or exposing the enemy.
The document provides an introduction to the Gospel of John. It outlines that John aims to convey that Jesus is fully God and fully man. It explores seven signs or miracles that Jesus performed to prove his deity. Each sign reveals an aspect of salvation: water to wine represents salvation through God's word; healing the nobleman's son represents salvation through faith; and healing the paralytic represents salvation through grace. The last four signs represent the results of salvation: feeding the 5,000 represents satisfaction; calming the storm represents peace; healing the blind man represents light; and raising Lazarus represents life. Overall, the document examines how John uses these signs to establish Jesus as the promised Messiah.
This document contains a summary of Romans 10:9-13 about salvation being available to both Jews and Gentiles through faith in Jesus Christ. It then provides commentary on the universality of the gospel and how it was anticipated in the Law. The commentary discusses how faith in one's heart leads to righteousness, while confession with the mouth leads to salvation. Belief in Jesus' resurrection and lordship are key to being saved. The gospel is for all people regardless of ethnicity who call on the name of the Lord.
This sermon will focus on the Case for the Cross. We will look at Jesus' teaching that he came to bring division and Paul's reflection on that teaching as he depicted the cross of Christ as the great divider. We will explore the critical critique of atheists and finally ponder the greatest challenge of the cross, the challenge to take up our Cross and follow Jesus.
Part 77 In Reality, In Christ The Sins Of The World Have Been Taken Away! Ralph W Knowles
This document discusses the concept that through Christ, all sins of the world have been taken away. It explores the idea that forgiveness and remission, while wonderful experiences, represent a lower understanding than the complete acquittal that Christ provides. It argues that through Christ, we have been acquitted of all deeds of our mistaken identity, and examines scriptures like John 1:29 and others to support this. The document also discusses concepts like the death and possible lack thereof of biblical figures like John and Enoch, and argues against the idea that all men must literally die and go to the grave based on its interpretation of scriptures. It aims to provide a "higher" understanding beyond traditional concepts.
This document discusses the steps of salvation and the role of repentance. It argues that repentance is a gift from God through Christ, not something a sinner can achieve on their own. While repentance must precede forgiveness, the sinner cannot bring themselves to repentance or make themselves worthy of God's grace. True repentance comes as the sinner responds to God's drawing and advances toward Christ in order to repent. The document asserts that no one can repent or make themselves worthy on their own, but that God constantly seeks to attract sinners to behold Christ, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world.
Sanctification refers to the process of a believer growing in holiness and purity through faith in Jesus Christ. It involves being set apart for holy use as God's people and vessels for His glory. Sanctification is a progressive, lifelong process of being perfected as Christians learn to follow God's ways and discard their sinful natures. It is important for Christians to cooperate with God's sanctifying work in their lives so that they can be fruitful and their faith proven genuine when Christ returns.
The audio (recorded conference call from April 30, 2014) can be found by copying and pasting the following URL into your address bar:
http://www.freeconferencing.com/playback.html?n=/storage/sgetFC/a2L7/aIOKCM
The subject of the use of Ellen White's writings and what she has to say about accepting some parts and disregarding others. She warns that this approach is not to be used. Many quotes included in this slideshow that went along with a verbal presentation. Contact uploader for more information or to get the Keynote (Apple) version of the slideshow. Visit Ellen-White.com as well.
Faith without works is dead because true faith results in obedience to God through good works. Faith involves complete trust and reliance on God, but the Bible teaches that faith without accompanying good works reveals an unchanged, spiritually dead heart. Good works done for God demonstrate that one's faith is alive and rooted in Christ. A person who claims to have faith but lives in disobedience does not have saving faith and is not saved.
Pastor Elio Marrocco's "Secrets of the Believer's Victory" sermon at New Life Christian Church on September 2012. You can learn more about New Life Christian Church here: http://www.newlifecc.ca
The document provides an overview of key aspects of New Testament Christianity based on teachings in the New Testament. It discusses the pattern for conversion outlined in scripture which includes faith, repentance, confession and baptism for forgiveness of sins. It also describes the early church as continuing in teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread (communion) and prayer. Identifying marks of the true church include following God's conversion pattern, strict adherence to apostolic teaching in scripture, and taking communion weekly on Sundays.
The document provides background information on Martin Luther and the Protestant Reformation. It discusses Luther's life and religious experiences that led him to question the Catholic Church's teachings on indulgences. In 1517, Luther published his 95 Theses criticizing indulgences, which helped spark the Protestant Reformation. The Reformation established doctrines such as salvation by grace alone through faith alone in Christ alone according to Scripture alone, for the glory of God alone. Reformation Sunday commemorates these theological changes and emphasizes the need for continual religious reform and revival.
The document discusses the importance of assurance of salvation and how it can be obtained. It states that assurance depends on 1) understanding the complete nature of salvation, 2) the confirming testimony of Christian faith, and 3) accepting the promises of salvation in the Bible. It describes how salvation is a gift through faith in Christ's atoning work, and how the indwelling of the Holy Spirit and transformation of character can provide assurance to believers.
The document discusses the purpose of man according to Christian theology. It makes three key points:
1) God alone determines man's purpose since He created man. The Bible indicates man's purpose is to have fellowship with God.
2) Man can know God's purpose by investigating the Bible and teachings of the Church, which state that every person is created to know and love God.
3) For man to attain union with God, he must be united with the Church, which is the mystical body of Christ on earth since Christ remains present in the Church through the Holy Spirit. Baptism grafts one onto the Church and Christ.
This document summarizes and analyzes Chapter 7 of the book of Romans. It discusses two main points: 1) The believer's relationship to the law, being freed from its curse but still obligated to obey it. 2) How Romans 7 describes the ongoing struggle between the believer's sinful and spiritual natures. The author argues that Romans 7 applies to all Christians as they continually battle indwelling sin. He provides numerous quotes from eminent Christians throughout history who expressed a deep sense of their own sinfulness and imperfection.
This document discusses the key biblical concept of justification. It defines justification as being declared righteous by God, not based on human works but through God's grace by faith in Christ. It explains that through justification by faith alone in Christ's sacrifice, believers are completely forgiven, given a new righteousness, and declared not guilty and free from condemnation. The purpose of studying justification and other biblical terms related to salvation is because many Christians do not understand them, which leaves believers vulnerable to temptation, and sound teaching produces strong Christians.
This document provides answers to frequently asked questions about The New Church in New York City. It summarizes that the church is based on the teachings and revelations of Emanuel Swedenborg from the 18th century. Key beliefs discussed include that God is one, faith requires charity, marriage love is eternal, heaven involves useful service, and the Second Coming refers to the unveiling of spiritual meanings in scripture. The document also discusses Swedenborgian views on salvation, hell, and other religions.
The document discusses Martin Luther's view that the Church is like a hospital that heals the wounded. It provides 6 marks, or identifying characteristics, of the Christian people who make up this "hospital-Church":
1. They possess the Word of God preached and lived.
2. They are recognized through the holy sacrament of Baptism.
3. They are recognized through the holy Sacrament of the Altar (Communion).
4. They exercise the Office of the Keys publicly through confession and forgiveness of sins.
5. They consecrate Ministers to administer the Word, Sacraments, and Keys.
6. They are recognized through public prayer, praise
Part 3 of "The Amazing Grace" series at The Gathering Place by Don Nothnagel.
Excellent insights into the Bible's position on Christians and God's Judgment,
Ultimate Spiritual Fighting - Gods Provisions Part 2Robin Schumacher
The document discusses the full armor of God described in Ephesians 6. It provides explanations of each piece of armor including the belt of truth, breastplate of righteousness, shoes of peace, shield of faith, helmet of salvation, and sword of the spirit. It explores what these aspects of the armor represent and how they protect believers from spiritual attacks. The document also notes that one can expect attacks when pursuing spiritual growth or exposing the enemy.
The document provides an introduction to the Gospel of John. It outlines that John aims to convey that Jesus is fully God and fully man. It explores seven signs or miracles that Jesus performed to prove his deity. Each sign reveals an aspect of salvation: water to wine represents salvation through God's word; healing the nobleman's son represents salvation through faith; and healing the paralytic represents salvation through grace. The last four signs represent the results of salvation: feeding the 5,000 represents satisfaction; calming the storm represents peace; healing the blind man represents light; and raising Lazarus represents life. Overall, the document examines how John uses these signs to establish Jesus as the promised Messiah.
This document contains a summary of Romans 10:9-13 about salvation being available to both Jews and Gentiles through faith in Jesus Christ. It then provides commentary on the universality of the gospel and how it was anticipated in the Law. The commentary discusses how faith in one's heart leads to righteousness, while confession with the mouth leads to salvation. Belief in Jesus' resurrection and lordship are key to being saved. The gospel is for all people regardless of ethnicity who call on the name of the Lord.
This sermon will focus on the Case for the Cross. We will look at Jesus' teaching that he came to bring division and Paul's reflection on that teaching as he depicted the cross of Christ as the great divider. We will explore the critical critique of atheists and finally ponder the greatest challenge of the cross, the challenge to take up our Cross and follow Jesus.
Part 77 In Reality, In Christ The Sins Of The World Have Been Taken Away! Ralph W Knowles
This document discusses the concept that through Christ, all sins of the world have been taken away. It explores the idea that forgiveness and remission, while wonderful experiences, represent a lower understanding than the complete acquittal that Christ provides. It argues that through Christ, we have been acquitted of all deeds of our mistaken identity, and examines scriptures like John 1:29 and others to support this. The document also discusses concepts like the death and possible lack thereof of biblical figures like John and Enoch, and argues against the idea that all men must literally die and go to the grave based on its interpretation of scriptures. It aims to provide a "higher" understanding beyond traditional concepts.
This document discusses the steps of salvation and the role of repentance. It argues that repentance is a gift from God through Christ, not something a sinner can achieve on their own. While repentance must precede forgiveness, the sinner cannot bring themselves to repentance or make themselves worthy of God's grace. True repentance comes as the sinner responds to God's drawing and advances toward Christ in order to repent. The document asserts that no one can repent or make themselves worthy on their own, but that God constantly seeks to attract sinners to behold Christ, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world.
Sanctification refers to the process of a believer growing in holiness and purity through faith in Jesus Christ. It involves being set apart for holy use as God's people and vessels for His glory. Sanctification is a progressive, lifelong process of being perfected as Christians learn to follow God's ways and discard their sinful natures. It is important for Christians to cooperate with God's sanctifying work in their lives so that they can be fruitful and their faith proven genuine when Christ returns.
The audio (recorded conference call from April 30, 2014) can be found by copying and pasting the following URL into your address bar:
http://www.freeconferencing.com/playback.html?n=/storage/sgetFC/a2L7/aIOKCM
The subject of the use of Ellen White's writings and what she has to say about accepting some parts and disregarding others. She warns that this approach is not to be used. Many quotes included in this slideshow that went along with a verbal presentation. Contact uploader for more information or to get the Keynote (Apple) version of the slideshow. Visit Ellen-White.com as well.
Faith without works is dead because true faith results in obedience to God through good works. Faith involves complete trust and reliance on God, but the Bible teaches that faith without accompanying good works reveals an unchanged, spiritually dead heart. Good works done for God demonstrate that one's faith is alive and rooted in Christ. A person who claims to have faith but lives in disobedience does not have saving faith and is not saved.
Pastor Elio Marrocco's "Secrets of the Believer's Victory" sermon at New Life Christian Church on September 2012. You can learn more about New Life Christian Church here: http://www.newlifecc.ca
The document provides an overview of key aspects of New Testament Christianity based on teachings in the New Testament. It discusses the pattern for conversion outlined in scripture which includes faith, repentance, confession and baptism for forgiveness of sins. It also describes the early church as continuing in teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread (communion) and prayer. Identifying marks of the true church include following God's conversion pattern, strict adherence to apostolic teaching in scripture, and taking communion weekly on Sundays.
The document provides background information on Martin Luther and the Protestant Reformation. It discusses Luther's life and religious experiences that led him to question the Catholic Church's teachings on indulgences. In 1517, Luther published his 95 Theses criticizing indulgences, which helped spark the Protestant Reformation. The Reformation established doctrines such as salvation by grace alone through faith alone in Christ alone according to Scripture alone, for the glory of God alone. Reformation Sunday commemorates these theological changes and emphasizes the need for continual religious reform and revival.
The document discusses the importance of assurance of salvation and how it can be obtained. It states that assurance depends on 1) understanding the complete nature of salvation, 2) the confirming testimony of Christian faith, and 3) accepting the promises of salvation in the Bible. It describes how salvation is a gift through faith in Christ's atoning work, and how the indwelling of the Holy Spirit and transformation of character can provide assurance to believers.
The document discusses the purpose of man according to Christian theology. It makes three key points:
1) God alone determines man's purpose since He created man. The Bible indicates man's purpose is to have fellowship with God.
2) Man can know God's purpose by investigating the Bible and teachings of the Church, which state that every person is created to know and love God.
3) For man to attain union with God, he must be united with the Church, which is the mystical body of Christ on earth since Christ remains present in the Church through the Holy Spirit. Baptism grafts one onto the Church and Christ.
This document summarizes and analyzes Chapter 7 of the book of Romans. It discusses two main points: 1) The believer's relationship to the law, being freed from its curse but still obligated to obey it. 2) How Romans 7 describes the ongoing struggle between the believer's sinful and spiritual natures. The author argues that Romans 7 applies to all Christians as they continually battle indwelling sin. He provides numerous quotes from eminent Christians throughout history who expressed a deep sense of their own sinfulness and imperfection.
This document discusses the key biblical concept of justification. It defines justification as being declared righteous by God, not based on human works but through God's grace by faith in Christ. It explains that through justification by faith alone in Christ's sacrifice, believers are completely forgiven, given a new righteousness, and declared not guilty and free from condemnation. The purpose of studying justification and other biblical terms related to salvation is because many Christians do not understand them, which leaves believers vulnerable to temptation, and sound teaching produces strong Christians.
This document provides answers to frequently asked questions about The New Church in New York City. It summarizes that the church is based on the teachings and revelations of Emanuel Swedenborg from the 18th century. Key beliefs discussed include that God is one, faith requires charity, marriage love is eternal, heaven involves useful service, and the Second Coming refers to the unveiling of spiritual meanings in scripture. The document also discusses Swedenborgian views on salvation, hell, and other religions.
The document discusses Martin Luther's view that the Church is like a hospital that heals the wounded. It provides 6 marks, or identifying characteristics, of the Christian people who make up this "hospital-Church":
1. They possess the Word of God preached and lived.
2. They are recognized through the holy sacrament of Baptism.
3. They are recognized through the holy Sacrament of the Altar (Communion).
4. They exercise the Office of the Keys publicly through confession and forgiveness of sins.
5. They consecrate Ministers to administer the Word, Sacraments, and Keys.
6. They are recognized through public prayer, praise
The document discusses how the philosopher Søren Kierkegaard can help Christians today. It argues that we need a new model for living Christianity that emphasizes truth as a transformative personal experience, faith as passionate conviction rather than certainty, and sees sin and salvation as relational and holistic rather than individual. It presents Kierkegaard's view of the church as a community of love, and Christianity as a suffering witness rather than an ideology.
The document discusses the symbolism and meaning behind various aspects of the Old Testament tabernacle and temple. It notes that the veil of the tabernacle represented the mysteries of the Old Testament and Christ's triumph over death. It also symbolized the separation between God and man. The tabernacle and subsequent temples built by Solomon, Zerubabel, and Herod are described. The document discusses how Christ serves as our high priest and the reality to which the tabernacle symbols and sacrifices pointed. It explores the symbolism of the mercy seat and how Christ fulfills this as our propitiation.
The document provides a topical study on the second article of the Apostles' Creed concerning redemption. It includes an acrostic poem on redemption, hymns about Christ's redemptive work, and discussion questions focusing on different aspects of Christ's role as redeemer in scripture and theology. Key points covered include Christ redeeming humanity from sin, death, and the devil through his suffering, death, and resurrection in order to purchase and win believers for himself.
A Great read by the late Dr. Walter Martin. An agnostic, converted, to Christianity, who became known as the Bible Answer Man. You can Also Download at http://anaheimsigns.com
This is a study of Jesus urging His disciples to buy a sword. It has a variety of interpretations dealt with in this study. It is a problem passage and many commentaries just ignore that it exists.
What is the true test of Godliness? How can one fellowship with the true church without being contaminated by the religious impositions of men of today?
The Prince of this world has long been striving and seems almost close to achieving that victory. it is the natural result of the error by the Church; a lowering of the standard of the Kingdom of God through the introduction of the gospel of convenience, a walk with God without transformation of life , a Christianity without the Cross. The church surrendering this basis of her power and legitimacy has made her to exist in a perfect and harmonious accord with the world.
The visible church has virtually created her own ‘GOD’ a religious deity who seems satisfied with his subjects excesses ,cares little about their sins, highly appreciates their works of virtue, even though these were predicated on human pride , and looks with pleasure upon their bold deeds and intellectual displays. Packages of doctrines, whole pedestals of understanding and range of thinking system which form the basis of people’s faith have been tailored to satisfy the cravings of fallen men.
The God of the bible has been left of his own House. His city lies in virtual ruins while the city wall are continually been compromised so that strangers may enter at will. This book written by Ayodeji Ezra-Williams brings to mind the words of Jesus Christ comparing the days of his coming to the days of Noah
This document discusses the conscience from a biblical perspective. It provides definitions of conscience and discusses what it is and is not. Some key points:
1. The conscience is the part of our psyche that induces guilt when we violate our moral values and pleasure when acting in line with our values.
2. The Bible teaches that conscience must be informed by God's word, as it can be evil, ignorant, or defiled if not properly guided.
3. A mature faith helps to strengthen the conscience by providing a strong foundation for discerning right from wrong.
4. When the conscience is wounded by sin, we must confess, seek forgiveness, and make amends in order to cleanse the conscience
This is a collection of writings dealing with the gift of counsel as found in Isaiah 11, It is dominated by Catholic authors because this is the text they focus on for the seven gifts of the Spirit. However, it is a biblical text to be expounded by all Bible believers. Protestants tend to shy away because of the strong Catholic content, but all believers need to see what God is revealing in this part of His Word.
by Fr. George Morelli
The presentation below was given to the Orthodox Peace Fellowship [an endorsed organization of the Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops of America] Annual Meeting, held in Madison, Wisconsin on September 16-18 2011. I have consistently written on forgiveness as central to the teachings and practice of Christ Himself and the necessity of our emulation of this forgiveness to bring peace to those around us and achieve our own sanctification. Many of these articles are posted on Orthodoxy Today [www.orthodoxytoday.org/archive/morelli] and the Antiochian Archdiocese [http://www.antiochian.org/author/morelli] website.
Jesus died for several reasons according to Ellen White:
1) To purify humanity from sin and restore our relationship with God.
2) To redeem humanity and restore us to oneness with God after the fall separated us.
3) To bring humanity back into loyalty to God and obedience to His commandments.
4) To provide sufficient grace and power for humanity to overcome our natural sinful tendencies.
What is the true test of Godliness? How can one fellowship with the true church without being contaminated by the religious impositions of men of today?
The Prince of this world has long been striving and seems almost close to achieving that victory. it is the natural result of the error by the Church; a lowering of the standard of the Kingdom of God through the introduction of the gospel of convenience, a walk with God without transformation of life , a Christianity without the Cross. The church surrendering this basis of her power and legitimacy has made her to exist in a perfect and harmonious accord with the world.
The visible church has virtually created her own ‘GOD’ a religious deity who seems satisfied with his subjects excesses ,cares little about their sins, highly appreciates their works of virtue, even though these were predicated on human pride , and looks with pleasure upon their bold deeds and intellectual displays. Packages of doctrines, whole pedestals of understanding and range of thinking system which form the basis of people’s faith have been tailored to satisfy the cravings of fallen men.
The God of the bible has been left of his own House. His city lies in virtual ruins while the city wall are continually been compromised so that strangers may enter at will. This book written by Ayodeji Ezra-Williams brings to mind the words of Jesus Christ comparing the days of his coming to the days of Noah
The document provides an introduction to a book about anointing the Most Holy place. It discusses how the Tabernacle of Moses represents stages of spiritual growth, beginning with the Outer Court where one encounters Jesus as Savior and the Word of God. The next stage is the Holy Place, where one experiences baptism in the Holy Spirit and begins to walk in the anointing, represented by the lamp stand and table of shewbread. This second stage involves instability as the spiritual and human identities war against each other. The third and highest stage involves anointing the Most Holy place and coming into perfection.
The document provides an introduction to a book about anointing the Most Holy place. It discusses how the Tabernacle of Moses represents stages of spiritual growth, beginning with the Outer Court where one encounters Jesus as Savior and the Word of God. The next stage is the Holy Place, where one experiences baptism in the Holy Spirit and begins to give off spiritual light and revelation. This stage involves duality as one grows in God consciousness but is still imperfect. The third and highest stage represented by the Most Holy Place will be discussed in subsequent chapters as moving beyond duality into perfection.
The document outlines the sanctuary service in the earthly tabernacle and its antitype in Jesus' heavenly ministry. It describes the daily and yearly services on earth, which pointed to the continual intercession of Jesus and His final atonement cleansing believers of sin's record. It urges readers to come humbly before God's judgment, pleading only the merits of Christ, who will present believers faultless before the Father.
This document provides an introduction and first chapter from the book "The Tree of Life" by Octavius Winslow. The summary is:
[1] The introduction discusses the author's aim to illustrate practical incidents from Christ's life and unfold the "way of life" so that each chapter contains the gospel message.
[2] The first chapter uses the metaphor of sitting under the shadow of Christ, finding repose and sweet fruit. It describes Christ as a protecting and refreshing shadow for believers, shielding them from justice and trials and providing soul-refreshment, such as through communion.
The document provides an introduction to a compilation summarizing the "mystery hidden from ages past" regarding God's ultimate intention of salvation for all. It recommends sources for further reading on universal salvation. The introduction expresses hope that seekers will find revelation through open-minded study while acknowledging most Christians will not accept this teaching.
The document provides guidance on receiving and being filled with the Holy Spirit. It discusses [1] recognizing Satan's influence and the need to renounce him, [2] accepting Christ as Lord through baptism and prayer, and [3] experiencing the fruits of the Spirit through living a Spirit-filled life marked by love, joy, peace and other virtues. The document encourages believers to continually seek being filled with the Holy Spirit in order to overcome sin and bear good spiritual fruit.
Similar to St. Macarius Notaras and St. Nicodemus of Athos Regarding Communion (20)
ΔΗΛΩΣΗ ΑΡΝΗΣΗΣ ΓΙΑ ΥΠΟΧΡΕΩΤΙΚΟ ΕΜΒΟΛΙΑΣΜΟ - ΠΡΟΣΤΙΜΟ 100 ΕΥΡΩ ΣΤΟΥΣ ΑΝΕΜΒΟΛΙΑ...Spyridon Voykalis
ΔΗΛΩΣΗ ΑΡΝΗΣΗΣ ΓΙΑ ΥΠΟΧΡΕΩΤΙΚΟ ΕΜΒΟΛΙΑΣΜΟ ( ΚΑΙ ΓΙΑ ΤΟ ΠΡΟΣΤΙΜΟ ΤΩΝ 100 ΕΥΡΩ ΜΗΝΙΑΙΩΣ ΣΤΟΥΣ ΑΝΕΜΒ@ΛΙΑΣΤΟΥΣ ΠΟΛΙΤΕΣ ΓΙΑ ΤΗΝ C@VID-19 ΑΝΩ ΤΩΝ 60 ΕΤΩΝ ΠΟΥ ΞΕΚΙΝΑΕΙ ΑΠΟ ΤΙΣ 16 /1/2022 )
Έντυπο δήλωσης - άρνησης επεξεργασίας και μεταβίβασης των προσωπικών δεδομένων, θα σταλεί σε 5 e-mail (ΗΔΙΚΑ, ΑΑΔΕ, ΓΕΝΙΚΗ ΓΡΑΜΜΑΤΕΙΑ ΠΛΗΡΟΦΟΡΙΑΚΩΝ ΣΥΣΤΗΜΑΤΩΝ, ΣΤΟΝ ΥΠΕΥΘΥΝΟ ΤΗΣ ΗΔΙΚΑ, ΚΑΙ ΣΤΗΝ ΑΡΧΗ ΤΗΣ ΠΡΟΣΤΑΣΙΑΣ ΤΩΝ ΠΡΟΣΩΠΙΚΩΝ ΔΕΔΟΜΕΝΩΝ) και σε
περίπτωση χρέωσης προστίμου θα γίνει μήνυση με ομαδικές αγωγές
ΔΙΑΒΑΣΤΕ ΤΟ ΚΑΙ ΟΠΟΙΟΣ ΦΙΛΟΣ - Η ΘΕΛΕΙ Η ΙΔΑΝΙΚΗ ΗΜΕΡΟΜΗΝΙΑ ΓΙΑ ΝΑ ΤΟ ΣΤΕΙΛΕΤΕ ΣΤΙΣ ΠΑΡΑΠΑΝΩ ΚΡΑΤΙΚΕΣ ΥΠΗΡΕΣΙΕΣ ΕΙΝΑΙ ΜΕΧΡΙ ΚΑΙ ΑΥΡΙΟ 14/1/2022. ΑΝ ΕΠΙΒΑΛΛΟΥΝ ΤΕΛΙΚΑ ΤΟ ΠΡΟΣΤΙΜΟ ΘΑ ΑΚΟΛΟΥΘΗΣΕΙ ΜΗΝΥΣΗ ΜΕ ΟΜΑΔΙΚΕΣ ΑΓΩΓΕΣ.
ΤΟ ΕΓΓΡΑΦΟ ΕΙΝΑΙ ΑΠΟ ΟΜΑΔΑ ΔΙΚΗΓΟΡΩΝ ΣΤΗΝ ΑΘΗΝΑ.
ΑΠΑΝΤΗΣΗ ΤΟΥ π.ΣΑΒΒΑ ΣΤΗΝ Ι.ΜΟΝΗ ΜΕΓΙΣΤΗΣ ΛΑΥΡΑΣ ΠΕΡΙ ΣΚΗΤΗΣ ΤΙΜΙΟΥ ΠΡΟΔΡΟΜΟΥ.( Ο π.ΣΑΒΒΑΣ ΑΠΟ ΤΗΝ Ι.ΜΟΝΗ ΜΕΓΙΣΤΗΣ ΛΑΥΡΑΣ ΔΙΕΚΟΨΕ ΤΗΝ ΜΝΗΜΟΝΕΥΣΗ ΤΟΥ ΟΙΚΟΥΜΕΝΙΚΟΥ ΠΑΤΡΙΑΡΧΗ ΒΑΡΘΟΛΟΜΑΙΟΥ ΓΙΑ ΛΟΓΟΥΣ ΠΙΣΤΕΩΣ ΚΑΙ ΔΙΚΑΙΟΣΥΝΗΣ ) ΟΠΩΣ ΠΡΟΣΤΑΖΟΥΝ ΝΑ ΠΡΑΤΤΟΥΜΕ ΟΙ ΑΓΙΟΙ ΠΑΤΕΡΕΣ ΠΟΥ ΕΙΧΑΝ ΠΝΕΥΜΑ ΑΓΙΟ ΕΝ ΚΑΙΡΩ ΑΙΡΕΣΕΩΣ , ΚΑΙ Η ΜΕΓΑΛΥΤΕΡΗ ΑΙΡΕΣΗ ΟΛΩΝ ΤΩΝ ΕΠΟΧΩΝ ΕΙΝΑΙ ΑΥΤΗ ΤΟΥ ΟΙΚΟΥΜΕΝΙΣΜΟΥ.
BLOG-ΝΕΑ ΕΠΟΧΗ http://neataksi.blogspot.gr
ΑΠΑΝΤΑ - ΠΡΩΗΝ ΦΛΩΡΙΝΗΣ ΧΡΥΣΟΣΤΟΜΟΥ - ΟΙ ΑΚΑΙΝΟΤΟΜΗΤΕΣ ΘΕΣΕΙΣ ΤΟΥ ΜΕ ΒΑΣΗ ΤΟ ...Spyridon Voykalis
- The document discusses a new technology that allows for rapid and accurate translation between all human languages. It notes that the technology uses advanced neural networks and large language models to analyze language patterns and relationships at a deep level. The system is able to translate between any two languages, including less common languages, providing highly accurate translations to help bridge communication gaps worldwide.
ΠΑΣΧΑ ΚΥΡΙΟΥ - Α.Δ.ΔΕΛΗΜΠΑΣΗΣ - ΟΙ ΕΠΙΠΤΩΣΕΙΣ ΚΑΙ ΤΑ ΑΠΟΤΕΛΕΣΜΑΤΑ ΤΗΣ ΑΙΡΕΤΙΚ...Spyridon Voykalis
ΑΠΟ ΤΟ ΒΙΒΛΙΟ ΤΟΥ ΘΕΟΛΟΓΟΥ ΣΥΓΓΡΑΦΕΑ Α.Δ.ΔΕΛΗΜΠΑΣΗ Σελ 772-788
ΟΙ ΕΠΙΠΤΩΣΕΙΣ ΚΑΙ ΤΑ ΑΠΟΤΕΛΕΣΜΑΤΑ ΤΗΣ ΑΙΡΕΤΙΚΗΣ ΚΑΚΟΔΟΞΙΑΣ ΠΕΡΙ ΑΥΤΟΜΑΤΟΥ ΑΠΩΛΕΙΑΣ ΤΗΣ ΘΕΙΑΣ ΧΑΡΙΤΩΝ ΚΑΙ ΠΕΡΙ ΑΚΥΡΩΝ ΜΥΣΤΗΡΙΩΝ ΤΩΝ ΑΚΡΙΤΩΝ ΔΥΝΑΜΕΙ ΑΙΡΕΤΙΚΩΝ - ΣΧΙΣΜΑΤΙΚΩΝ - ΠΑΡΑΣΥΝΑΓΩΓΩΝ ΠΡΟ ΠΑΝΟΡΘΟΔΟΞΟΥ ΣΥΝΟΔΙΚΗΣ ΔΙΑΓΝΩΣΕΩΣ.
BLOG - ΝΕΑ ΕΠΟΧΗ http://neataksi.blogspot.gr
ΒΙΒΛΙΟ - ΠΑΣΧΑ ΚΥΡΙΟΥ σελ 789-804 - Η ΚΑΚΟΔΟΞΙΑ ΠΕΡΙ ΑΠΩΛΕΙΑΣ ΤΗΣ ΧΑΡΙΤΟΣ ΚΑΙ...Spyridon Voykalis
ΑΠΑΝΤΗΣΕΙΣ ΣΕ ΟΣΟΥΣ ΥΠΟΣΤΗΡΙΖΟΥΝ ΤΗΝ ΒΛΑΣΦΗΜΗ ΚΑΚΟΔΟΞΙΑ ΠΕΡΙ ΑΠΩΛΕΙΑΣ ΤΗΣ ΧΑΡΙΤΟΣ ΚΑΙ ΑΚΥΡΩΝ ΜΥΣΤΗΡΙΩΝ ΣΤΟΥΣ ΑΚΡΙΤΟΥΣ ΑΙΡΕΤΙΚΟΥΣ - ΣΧΙΣΜΑΤΙΚΟΥΣ - ΠΑΡΑΣΥΝΑΓΩΓΟΥΣ ΠΡΟ ΣΥΝΟΔΙΚΗΣ ΔΙΑΓΝΩΣΗΣ ΑΠΟ ΠΑΝΟΡΘΟΔΟΞΟ ΣΥΝΟΔΟ ΖΩΝΤΩΝ ΕΠΙΣΚΟΠΩΝ.
BLOG : ΝΕΑ ΕΠΟΧΗ http://neataksi.blogspot.gr
Υπάρχουν μαρτυρίες πρώην Μουσουλμάνων που έγιναν Χριστιανοί γνώστες του Κορανίου, όπως από τον καθηγητή Πανεπιστημίου Δρ. Mark Gabriel, από τον πρώην Ιμάμη Mario Joseph να διηγούνται οι ίδιοι τι λέει το Κοράνι για τον Ιησού.
ΑΜΚΑ - ΕΓΓΡΑΦΟ ΓΙΑ ΑΜΚΑ ΠΡΟΣ ΤΟΝ ΑΝΑΠΛΗΡΩΤΗ ΥΠΟΥΡΓΟ ΟΙΚΟΝΟΜΙΚΩΝ ΚΥΡΙΟ ΤΡΥΦΩΝΑ...Spyridon Voykalis
ΑΙΤΗΜΑ ΜΗ ΠΛΗΡΩΜΗΣ ΤΟΥ ΕΝΦΙΑ ΓΙΑ ΟΛΟΥΣ ΟΣΟΥΣ ΕΧΟΥΝ ΚΟΨΕΙ ΤΗΝ ΣΥΝΤΑΞΗ ΕΠΕΙΔΗ ΔΕΝ ΔΕΧΟΝΤΑΙ ΤΟΝ ΑΜΚΑ ΓΙΑ ΛΟΓΟΥΣ ΘΡΗΣΚΕΥΤΙΚΗΣ ΚΑΙ ΣΥΝΤΑΓΜΑΤΙΚΗΣ ΣΥΝΕΙΔΗΣΗΣ.
The Book of Samuel is a book in the Hebrew Bible, found as two books in the Old Testament. The book is part of the Deuteronomistic history, a series of books that constitute a theological history of the Israelites and that aim to explain God's law for Israel under the guidance of the prophets.
The Hope of Salvation - Jude 1:24-25 - MessageCole Hartman
Jude gives us hope at the end of a dark letter. In a dark world like today, we need the light of Christ to shine brighter and brighter. Jude shows us where to fix our focus so we can be filled with God's goodness and glory. Join us to explore this incredible passage.
Heartfulness Magazine - June 2024 (Volume 9, Issue 6)heartfulness
Dear readers,
This month we continue with more inspiring talks from the Global Spirituality Mahotsav that was held from March 14 to 17, 2024, at Kanha Shanti Vanam.
We hear from Daaji on lifestyle and yoga in honor of International Day of Yoga, June 21, 2024. We also hear from Professor Bhavani Rao, Dean at Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham University, on spirituality in action, the Venerable BhikkuSanghasena on how to be an ambassador for compassion, Dr. Tony Nader on the Maharishi Effect, Swami Mukundananda on the crossroads of modernization, Tejinder Kaur Basra on the purpose of work, the Venerable GesheDorjiDamdul on the psychology of peace, the Rt. Hon. Patricia Scotland, KC, Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, on how we are all related, and world-renowned violinist KumareshRajagopalan on the uplifting mysteries of music.
Dr. Prasad Veluthanar shares an Ayurvedic perspective on treating autism, Dr. IchakAdizes helps us navigate disagreements at work, Sravan Banda celebrates World Environment Day by sharing some tips on land restoration, and Sara Bubber tells our children another inspiring story and challenges them with some fun facts and riddles.
Happy reading,
The editors
Trusting God's Providence | Verse: Romans 8: 28-31JL de Belen
Trusting God's Providence.
Providence - God’s active preservation and care over His creation. God is both the Creator and the Sustainer of all things Heb. 1:2-3; Col. 1:17
-God keep His promises.
-God’s general providence is toward all creation
- All things were made through Him
God’s special providence is toward His children.
We may suffer now, but joy can and will come
God can see what we cannot see
The forces involved in this witchcraft spell will re-establish the loving bond between you and help to build a strong, loving relationship from which to start anew. Despite any previous hardships or problems, the spell work will re-establish the strong bonds of friendship and love upon which the marriage and relationship originated. Have faith, these stop divorce and stop separation spells are extremely powerful and will reconnect you and your partner in a strong and harmonious relationship.
My ritual will not only stop separation and divorce, but rebuild a strong bond between you and your partner that is based on truth, honesty, and unconditional love. For an even stronger effect, you may want to consider using the Eternal Love Bond spell to ensure your relationship and love will last through all tests of time. If you have not yet determined if your partner is considering separation or divorce, but are aware of rifts in the relationship, try the Love Spells to remove problems in a relationship or marriage. Keep in mind that all my love spells are 100% customized and that you'll only need 1 spell to address all problems/wishes.
Save your marriage from divorce & make your relationship stronger using anti divorce spells to make him or her fall back in love with you. End your marriage if you are no longer in love with your husband or wife. Permanently end your marriage using divorce spells that work fast. Protect your marriage from divorce using love spells to boost commitment, love & bind your hearts together for a stronger marriage that will last. Get your ex lover who has remarried using divorce spells to break up a couple & make your ex lost lover come back to you permanently.
Visit https://www.profbalaj.com/love-spells-loves-spells-that-work/
Call/WhatsApp +27836633417 for more info.
Protector & Destroyer: Agni Dev (The Hindu God of Fire)Exotic India
So let us turn the pages of ancient Indian literature and get to know more about Agni, the mighty purifier of all things, worshipped in Indian culture as a God since the Vedic time.
Sanatan Vastu | Experience Great Living | Vastu ExpertSanatan Vastu
Santan Vastu Provides Vedic astrology courses & Vastu remedies, If you are searching Vastu for home, Vastu for kitchen, Vastu for house, Vastu for Office & Factory. Best Vastu in Bahadurgarh. Best Vastu in Delhi NCR
The Enchantment and Shadows_ Unveiling the Mysteries of Magic and Black Magic...Phoenix O
This manual will guide you through basic skills and tasks to help you get started with various aspects of Magic. Each section is designed to be easy to follow, with step-by-step instructions.
The Book of Ruth is included in the third division, or the Writings, of the Hebrew Bible. In most Christian canons it is treated as one of the historical books and placed between Judges and 1 Samuel.
A375 Example Taste the taste of the Lord, the taste of the Lord The taste of...franktsao4
It seems that current missionary work requires spending a lot of money, preparing a lot of materials, and traveling to far away places, so that it feels like missionary work. But what was the result they brought back? It's just a lot of photos of activities, fun eating, drinking and some playing games. And then we have to do the same thing next year, never ending. The church once mentioned that a certain missionary would go to the field where she used to work before the end of his life. It seemed that if she had not gone, no one would be willing to go. The reason why these missionary work is so difficult is that no one obeys God’s words, and the Bible is not the main content during missionary work, because in the eyes of those who do not obey God’s words, the Bible is just words and cannot be connected with life, so Reading out God's words is boring because it doesn't have any life experience, so it cannot be connected with human life. I will give a few examples in the hope that this situation can be changed. A375
A Free eBook ~ Valuable LIFE Lessons to Learn ( 5 Sets of Presentations)...OH TEIK BIN
A free eBook comprising 5 sets of PowerPoint presentations of meaningful stories /Inspirational pieces that teach important Dhamma/Life lessons. For reflection and practice to develop the mind to grow in love, compassion and wisdom. The texts are in English and Chinese.
My other free eBooks can be obtained from the following Links:
https://www.slideshare.net/ohteikbin/presentations
https://www.slideshare.net/ohteikbin/documents
2. What follows is the second of three chapters in Part II, ʺConcerning
Frequent Communion.ʺ Take note of the other two chapter titles: ʺIs is
necessary for the Orthodox to Partake frequently of the Divine body and
blood of our Lord,ʺ and ʺInfrequent Communion causes great harm.ʺ
Both the soul and the body of the Christian receive great benefit from
the divine Mysteries—before he communes, when he communes, and after he
communes. Before one communes, he must perform the necessary
preparation, namely, confess to his Spiritual Father, have contrition, amend
his ways, have compunction, learn to watch over himself carefully, and keep
himself from passionate thoughts (as much as possible) and from every evil.
The more the Christian practices self‐control, prays, and keeps vigil, the more
pious he becomes and the more he performs every other good work,
contemplating what a fearful King he will receive inside of himself. This is
even more true when he considers that he will receive grace from Holy
Communion in proportion to his preparation. The more often someone
prepares himself, the more benefit he receives. [93]
When a Christian partakes of Communion, who can comprehend the
gifts and the charismata he receives? Or how can our inept tongue enumerate
them? For this reason, let us again bring forward one by one the sacred
teachers of the Church to tell us about these gifts, with their eloquent and
God‐inspired mouths.
Gregory the Theologian says:
When the most sacred body of Christ is received and eaten in a proper
manner, it becomes a weapon against those who war against us, it returns to
God those who had left Him, it strengthens the weak, it causes the healthy to
be glad, it heals sicknesses, and it preserves health. Through it we become
meek and more willing to accept correction, more longsuffering in our pains,
more fervent in our love, more detailed in our knowledge, more willing to do
obedience, and keener in the workings of the charismata of the Spirit. But all
the opposite happens to those who do not receive Communion in a proper
manner. [94]
Those who do not receive Communion frequently suffer totally
opposite things, because they are not sealed with the precious blood of our
Lord, as the same Gregory the Theologian says: Then the Lamb is slain, and
with the precious blood are sealed action and reason, that is, habit and mental
activity, the sideposts of our doors. I mean, of course, by doors, the
movements and notions of the intellect, which are opened and closed
correctly through spiritual vision. [95]
3. St. Ephraim the Syrian writes:
Brothers, let us practice stillness, fasting, prayer, and tears; gather
together in the Church; work with our hands; speak about the Holy Fathers;
be obedient to the truth; and listen to the divine Scriptures; so that our minds
do not become barren (and sprout the thorns of evil thoughts). And let us
certainly make ourselves worthy of partaking of the divine and immaculate
Mysteries, so that our soul may be purified from thoughts of unbelief and
impurity, and so that the Lord will dwell within us and deliver us from the
evil one.
The divine Cyril of Alexandria says that, because of divine
Communion, those noetic thieves the demons find no opportunity to enter
into our souls through the senses:
You must consider your senses as the door to a house. Through the
senses all images of things enter into the heart, and, through the senses, the
innumerable multitude of lusts pour into it. The Prophet Joel calls the senses
windows, saying: They shall enter in at our windows like a thief (Jl. 2:9),
because these windows have not been marked with the precious blood of
Christ. Moreover, the Law commanded that, after the slaughter (of the lamb),
the Israelites were to smear the doorposts and the lintels of their houses with
its blood, showing by this that the precious blood of Christ protects our own
earthly dwelling‐place, which is to say, our body, and that the death brought
about by the transgression is repelled through our enjoyment of the partaking
of life (that is, of life‐giving Communion). Further, through our sealing (with
the blood of Christ) we distance from ourselves the destroyer. [96]
The same divine Cyril says in another place that, through Communion,
we are cleansed from every impurity of soul and receive eagerness and fervor
to do good: The precious blood of Christ not only frees us from every
corruption, but it also cleanses us from every impurity lying hidden within
us, and it does not allow us to grow cold on account of sloth, but rather makes
us fervent in the Spirit. [97]
St. Theodore the Studite wondrously describes the benefit one receives
from frequent Communion:
Tears and contrition have great power. But the Communion of the
sanctified Gifts, above all, has especially great power and benefit, and, seeing
that you are so indifferent towards it and do not frequently receive it, I am in
wonder and great amazement. For I see that you only receive Communion on
Sundays, but, if there is a Liturgy on any other day, you do not commune,
4. though when I was in the monastery each one of you had permission to
commune every day, if you so desired. But now the Liturgy is less frequently
celebrated, and you still do not commune. I say these things to you, not
because I wish for you simply to commune—haphazardly, without
preparation (for it is written: But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat
of the Bread, and drink of the Cup. For he that eateth and drinketh
unworthily, eateth and drinketh damnation to himself, not discerning the
Lords body and blood [1 Cor. 11:2829]). No, I am not saying this. God forbid! I
say that we should, out of our desire for Communion, purify ourselves as
much as possible and make ourselves worthy of the Gift. For the Bread which
came down from heaven is participation in life: If any man eat of this bread,
he shall live for ever: and the bread that I will give is My flesh, which I will
give for the life of the world (Jn. 6:51). Again He says: He that eateth My flesh,
and drinketh My blood, dwelleth in Me, and I in him (Jn. 6:58).
Do you see the ineffable gift? He not only died for us, but He also gives
Himself to us as food. What could show more love than this? What is more
salvific to the soul? Moreover, no one fails to partake every day of the food
and drink of the common table. And, if it happens that someone does not eat,
he becomes greatly dismayed. And we are not speaking here about ordinary
bread, but about the Bread of life; not about an ordinary cup, but about the
Cup of immortality. And do we consider Communion an indifferent matter,
entirely unnecessary? How is this thought not irrational and foolish? If this is
how it has been up until now, my children, I ask that we henceforth take heed
to ourselves, and, knowing the power of the Gift, let us purify ourselves as
much as possible and partake of the sanctified Things. And if it happens that
we are occupied with a handicraft, as soon as we hear the sounding‐board
calling us to Church, let us put our work aside and go partake of the Gift with
great desire. And this (that is, frequent Communion) will certainly benefit us,
for we keep ourselves pure through our preparation for Communion. If we
do not commune frequently, it is impossible for us not to become subject to
the passions. Frequent Communion will become for us a companion unto
eternal life. [98]
So, my brothers, if we practice what the divine Fathers have ordered
and frequently commune, we not only will have the support and help of
divine grace in this short life, but also will have the angels of God as helpers,
and the very Master of the angels Himself. Furthermore, the inimical demons
will be greatly distanced from us, as the divine Chrysostom says:
Let us then return from that Table like lions breathing fire, having
become fearsome to the devil, thinking about our Head (Christ) and the love
He has shown for us. This blood causes the image of our King to be fresh
5. within us, it produces unspeakable beauty, and, watering and nourishing our
soul frequently, it does not permit its nobility to waste away. This blood,
worthily received, drives away demons and keeps them far from us, while it
calls to us the angels and the Master of angels. For wherever they see the
Masters blood, devils flee and angels run to gather together. This blood is the
salvation of our souls. By it the soul is washed, is made beautiful, and is
inflamed; and it causes our intellect to be brighter than fire and makes the
soul gleam more than gold....Those who partake of this blood stand with the
angels and the powers that are above, clothed in the kingly robe itself, armed
with spiritual weapons. But I have not yet said anything great by this: for they
are clothed even with the King Himself. [99]
Do you see, my beloved brother, how many wonderful charismata you
receive if you frequently commune? Do you see that with frequent
Communion the intellect is illumined, the mind is made to shine, and all of
the powers of the soul are purified? If you also desire to kill the passions of
the flesh, go to Communion frequently and you will succeed. Cyril of
Alexandria confirms this for us: Receive Holy Communion believing that it
liberates us not only from death, but also from every illness. And this is
because, when Christ dwells within us through frequent Communion, He
pacifies and calms the fierce war of the flesh, ignites piety toward God, and
deadens the passions. [100]
Thus, without frequent Communion we cannot be freed from the
passions and ascend to the heights of dispassion; just as the Israelites, if they
had not eaten the passover in Egypt, would not have been able to be freed.
For Egypt means an impassioned life, and if we do not frequently receive the
precious body and blood of our Lord (every day if it be possible), we will not
be able to be freed from the noetic Pharaonians (that is, the passions and the
demons). According to Cyril of Alexandria,
As long as those of Israel were slaves to the Egyptians, they
slaughtered the lamb and ate the passover. This shows that the soul of man
cannot be freed from the tyranny of the devil by any other means except the
partaking of Christ. For He Himself says: If the Son therefore shall make you
free, ye shall be free indeed (Jn. 8:36). [101]
Again St. Cyril says, They had to sacrifice the lamb, being that it was a
type of Christ, for they could not have been freed by any other means. [102]
So if we also desire to flee Egypt, namely, dark and oppressive sin, and
to flee Pharaoh, that is, the noetic tyrant (according to Gregory the
Theologian), [103] and inherit the land of the heart and the promise, we must
6. have as our general (as the Israelites had Joshua [Jesus] the son of Nun as
their general) our Lord Jesus Christ through the frequent reception of
Communion. This way we will be able to conquer the Canaanites and the
strangers, which are the disruptive passions of the flesh, and the Gibeonites,
which are deceptive thoughts, in order that we may be able to remain in
Jerusalem, which is interpreted sacred peace (as opposed to the peace of the
world), as our Lord says: My peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth,
give I unto you (Jn. 14:27). That is to say, My own peace I give to you, O my
disciples, the sacred and holy peace, not the peace which is of the world,
which oftentimes looks also to wickedness.
Remaining in that sacred peace, we will be deemed worthy to receive
inside our heart the promise of the Spirit, just as the Apostles remained and
waited in Jerusalem, according to the command of the Lord, and received the
perfection and grace of the Spirit on the day of Pentecost. And peace is a
charisma which attracts all of the other divine charismata; and the Lord
dwells in peace, as the Prophet Elias says, for God was neither in the powerful
and strong wind, nor in the earthquake, nor in the fire, but in the gentle and
peaceful breeze. [104]
However, without the other virtues, one cannot acquire peace. And
virtue cannot be achieved without keeping the commandments. And no
commandment is perfected without love, and love is not renewed without
divine Communion. Wherefore, without divine Communion, we labor in
vain.
Many obtain a variety of virtues on their own, thinking that they can
be saved by these without frequent Communion, which is however
fundamentally impossible. For they do not want to be obedient to the will of
God and commune frequently, according to the norm of the Church, when
they come together at every festive Liturgy.
To such people, God says through the Prophet Jeremiah: They have
forsaken Me, the fountain of living waters, and hewed them out cisterns,
broken cisterns, that can hold no water (Jer. 2:13). That is to say, They left Me,
God, Who is the fount of the life‐giving water, namely, the virtue and
charismata of the Holy Spirit, and they dug out for themselves wells full of
holes, which cannot hold water. He again says through the Prophet Isaiah:
Yet they seek Me daily, and delight to know My ways, as a nation that
did righteousness, and forsook not the ordinance of their God. They ask of Me
the ordinances of justice; they take delight in approaching to God. Wherefore
have we fasted, say they, and Thou seest not? Wherefore have we afflicted
8. hearted of people. On the other hand, it is because the knowledge of our love
for God is not something foreign to us, but is naturally sown in our heart from
the moment that we are born according to the flesh, and when we are reborn
according to the Spirit in Holy Baptism. At the slightest cause, those natural
sparks immediately set ablaze, as the wise Basil says:
Together with the making of the animal (I mean man), a certain
seminal word was implanted in us, having within itself the tendency to impel
us to love. The pupils in the school of Gods commandments, having received
this word, are by Gods grace enabled to exercise it with care, to nourish it
with knowledge, and to bring it to perfection. You must know that this virtue,
though only one, yet by its efficacy accomplishes and fulfills every
commandment. [105]
In other words, when man was made, a certain power was
immediately sown in him, which naturally generates love for God. The doing
of the commandments of God diligently cultivates this power, nourishes it
with knowledge, and perfects it by the grace of God. This virtue of love for
God, though only one virtue, contains and activates all of the rest of the
commandments.
This natural power to love God is strengthened, augmented, and
perfected by the frequent Communion of the body and blood of our Lord. For
this reason St. Cyprian writes that, when the martyrs were preparing to go off
to their martyrdoms, they first partook of the immaculate Mysteries, and
being thus strengthened by Holy Communion were set aflame with the love
for God and went off to the stadium like lambs to the slaughter. And in return
for the body and blood of Christ which they received, they shed their own
blood and gave their body over to various tortures.
Is there any other good thing, O Christian, that you desire to have,
which frequent Communion cannot give you? Do you desire to rejoice every
day? Do you wish to celebrate brilliant Pascha whenever you like and to exult
with unspeakable joy during this sorrowful life? Run frequently to the
Mysteries and partake of them with the proper preparation and you will
enjoy such things. For the true Pascha and the true festival of the soul is
Christ, Who is sacrificed in the Mysteries as the Apostle says, [106] and as the
divine Chrysostom likewise says:
For Great Lent occurs but once a year. But we celebrate Pascha (that is,
we receive Communion) three times a week or even four. Or, to say it better,
as often as we like. For Pascha does not consist of fasting, but of the Offering
and Sacrifice which takes place during the daily gathering. And as testimony
9. that this is true, listen to Paul, who says: Christ our passover [pascha] is
sacrificed for us (1 Cor. 5:7). Therefore, as often as you partake of Communion
with a pure conscience, you celebrate Pascha; not when you fast, but when
you partake of that Sacrifice. The catechumen never celebrates Pascha, even
though he may fast every year during Lent, because he does not commune in
the Offering. So then, even the person who did not fast, if he approaches with
a pure conscience, celebrates Pascha, be it today, tomorrow, or any time he
partakes of Communion. For good and proper preparation for Communion is
not judged by lengths of time, but by a pure conscience. [107]
Therefore, as many as fast for Pascha, but do not commune, do not
celebrate Pascha, as the divine Father just told us. And as many as are not
prepared to receive the body and blood of our Lord cannot truly celebrate
Sundays or the other Feasts of the year, because they do not possess the cause
and occasion for the Feast, which is the most‐sweet Jesus Christ, and they do
not possess the spiritual joy that divine Communion brings.
As many as think that Pascha and Feasts consist of abundant artoklasies,
[108] bright candles, fragrant incense, and the silver and gold vessels that
adorn the Church are deceived. [109] For God does not mainly seek such
things from us, as He says through the Prophet Moses: [O man], what doth
the Lord thy God require of thee, but to fear the Lord thy God, to walk in all
His ways, and to love Him, and to worship the Lord thy God with all thy
heart and with all thy soul, to keep the commandments of the Lord, and His
statutes (Dt. 10:1213).
Our concern now is not to discuss pious offerings made in Church and
whether they are good or not. These, indeed, are good, but together with
them we must also offer obedience to the holy commandments of our Lord,
and to prefer this to all those things. According to the Prophet‐king David: A
sacrifice unto God is a broken spirit; a heart that is broken and humbled God
will not despise (Ps. 50:17).
The Apostle Paul, in his Epistle to the Hebrews, says: Sacrifice and
offering Thou wouldest not, but a body hast Thou prepared me (Heb. 10:5; Ps.
39:9). Which means: O Lord, You do not desire that I bring to You all of the
other sacrifices and offerings, but that I draw near to the Holy Mysteries and
receive the all‐holy body of Your Son, which You have prepared for me on the
Holy Table, for this also is Your will. For this reason, wanting to show that he
is ready to do obedience, the Psalmist says: Then I said: Behold, I am come to
do Thy will, O my God, and Thy law is in the midst of my bowels (Ps. 39:11;
cf. Heb. 10:7). That is: Behold Lord, I have come to do Your will with great
eagerness and to fulfill Your law with all of my heart.
10. For this reason, if we love our salvation, we must do the will of God and obey
His commandments as sons and with joy, and not as slaves and with fear. For
fear keeps the old commandments, while love keeps the evangelical
commandments. That is, those who were under the Law kept the
commandments and statutes of the Law out of fear, so they would not be
disciplined and punished. But we Christians, since we are no longer under the
Law, must do the commandments of the Gospel, not out of fear, but out of
love, and we must do the will of God as sons.
The well‐pleasing and ancient will of God the Father was to furnish
His Only‐begotten Son and our Lord Jesus Christ with a body, as the Apostle
said. [110] That is, for His Son to become incarnate and shed His blood for the
salvation of the world, and for all of us Christians to frequently partake of His
body and His blood. Thus, we will be kept safe from the snares and
machinations of the devil during this present life. And when our soul departs
from us, it will fly like a dove in freedom and joy into the heavens, without
being inhibited whatsoever by the spirits lurking in the air.
And this is verified by the divine Chrysostom, who says:
Moreover another person told me (he says another person because he
beforehand told of someone else, who had described to him a different
vision)—not having heard it from someone else, but having himself been
deemed worthy to both see and hear it—with regard to those who are about
to depart this life, that if they happen to partake of the Mysteries, with a pure
conscience, when they are about to breathe their last, angels keep guard over
them because of what they have just received, and bear them hence (to
heaven). [111]
So, my brother, because you do not know when death will come,
whether today, or tomorrow, or this very hour, you must always be
communed of the immaculate Mysteries in order to be found ready. And if it
is the will of God that you continue to live this present life, you will live a life,
by the grace of Holy Communion, full of joy, full of peace, and full of love,
accompanied by all of the other virtues. But, if it is the will of God that you
die, on account of Holy Communion you will pass freely through the
tollhouses of the demons that are found in the air, and you will dwell with
inexpressible joy in the eternal mansions. [112] For since you are always
united to our sweet Jesus Christ, the almighty King, you will live a blessed life
here; and, when you die, the demons will flee from you like lightning and the
angels will open the heavenly entrance for you and usher you in procession to
the throne of the blessed Trinity. [113]
11. O what majestic things Christians enjoy from frequent Communion, both in
this present life and in the future life!
Would you like, O Christian, for the small errors you commit as a man,
either with your eyes or with your ears, to be forgiven? Draw near to the
Mysteries with fear and with a broken heart, [114] and they will be remitted
and forgiven. St. Anastasios of Antioch confirms this:
If we fall into some small, pardonable sins on account of our being
human, either with our tongue, our ears, our eyes, and we fall as victims of
deceit into vainglory, or sorrow, or anger, or some other like sin, let us
condemn ourselves and confess to God. Thus let us partake of the Holy
Mysteries, believing that the reception of the divine Mysteries is unto the
purification of these small sins (though not the grave and evil and impure sins
which we may have committed, regarding which we should seek the Mystery
of Confession). [115]
Many other Saints also attest to this. The divine Clement of Rome says:
Having partaken of the precious body and precious blood of Christ, let us
give thanks to Him who has deemed us worthy to partake of His Holy
Mysteries, and ask that these may not be unto our condemnation, but unto
our salvation unto the forgiveness of sins. [116]
Basil the Great says: And make them worthy to partake without
condemnation of these, Thine immaculate and life‐giving Mysteries, unto the
forgiveness of sins. [117]
The divine Chrysostom says: That to those who shall partake thereof
they may be unto vigilance of soul, and unto forgiveness of sins. [118]
While confession and fulfilling ones ascetical rule* is able to forgive
sins, divine Communion is also necessary. One first removes the worms from
a fetid wound, then cuts away the rotten skin, and finally applies ointment to
it so that it may heal—for if it is left untreated, it reverts to its former
condition—and the same is true in the case of sin. Confession removes the
worms, fulfilling ones rule cuts away the dead skin, and divine Communion
heals it as an ointment. For if divine Communion is not also applied, the poor
sinner reverts to his former condition, and the last state of that man becomes
worse than the first (Mt. 12:45).
Do you hear, my Christian, how many charismata you receive from
frequent Communion? That your small, pardonable sins are forgiven and
your wounds are treated and made completely well? What is more blessed
than for you to always prepare yourself to receive Communion, and with the
12. preparation for and the help of divine Communion always to find yourself
free of sin? For you who are earthly to remain pure, as the heavenly angels are
pure? Can there be any greater happiness than this?
And I will tell you something still greater, brother. If you frequently
approach the Mysteries and partake worthily of that immortal and glorified
body and blood of our Lord Jesus Christ, and become one body and one
blood with the all‐holy body and blood of Christ, the life‐giving power and
energy; then, at the resurrection of the righteous, your own body will be
brought to life and resurrected incorruptible and glorified like that of Christ,
as the divine Apostle writes to the Philippians: Who shall change our lowly
body, that it may be fashioned like unto His glorious body (Phil. 3:21).
All of these great and supranatural dignities and graces of which we
have spoken until now are received by every Christian who partakes of the
divine Mysteries of our sweetest Jesus Christ with a pure conscience; and
indeed even more than these are received, which we have not mentioned for
the sake of brevity.
After one receives Communion, he thinks about the dread and
heavenly Mysteries of which he partook, and so he takes heed to himself so as
not to dishonor that grace. He fears his thoughts [logismoi], shrinks away from
them, and protects himself from them. He begins a more correct and virtuous
life, and, as much as is possible, abstains from every evil. When he begins to
think about the fact that he will be receiving Communion again in just a few
days, he doubles his efforts to watch over himself. He adds zeal to zeal, self‐
control to self‐control, vigilance to vigilance, labors upon labors, and he
struggles as much as possible. This is because he is pressed on two sides: on
one side, because just a short while ago he received Communion, and on the
other, because he will receive again in just a short while.
Endnotes
*Webmaster note: In footnote 22 beginning on p. 38 the translator includes an
explanation of how St. Nikodemos uses the term ʺruleʺ:
When the term satisfaction is used by Nikodemos the Hagiorite in his references
pertaining to penances, as is made plainly obvious from the surrounding text it has
absolutely no relation to the heretical teaching of Western origin that satisfaction is
required on account of mans sins insulting divine justice. For St. Nikodemos,
satisfaction means the penitents voluntary acceptance and fulfillment of the spiritual
penance assigned to him by his Spiritual Father, that is to say, the ascetical rule
[kanon] given to him after his confession. This spiritual rule is not a juridical penalty
or punishment, in order that someone might be satisfied (God, for example, in the
13. present instance, that is, according to the heretical Western theological position).
Rather, it is the pedagogical and therapeutic spiritual and bodily exertion by which
man is to consciously fulfill his repentance, in— theory and in practice. It is the
negation of the pleasure of sin, by the grace of God, and the voluntarily accepted
therapeutic pain of the repenting person. (He Theia Eucharistia kai ta Pronomia tes
Kyriakes kata te Didaskalia ton Kollybadon [The Divine Eucharist and the Prerogatives of
Sunday According to the Teaching of the Kollyvades] [Thessaloniki:Pournaras, 20041,
356).
93. Translators note: Interpreting the Third Ode of the Canon of the Feast of the
Elevation of the Cross, St. Nikodemos writes:
So, my beloved reader, if you desire to receive the abovementioned divine
charismata [forgiveness of sins, enlightenment, justification, sanctification, victory
over the devil, etc], and still others even more unspeakable and incomprehensible,
frequently approach the immaculate Mysteries and partake of them. Take care,
however, to receive Communion with the appropriate preparation, namely, with
confession, with fasting (as much as you are able), with the preparation of self‐
control, with prayer, with attentive care, with contrition in your heart, and with a
pure conscience, having examined yourself just as the Apostle commands you (cf. 1
Cor. 11:28), so that your partaking of the divine Mysteries not be unto your
condemnation. You will receive the grace of Communion in proportion to the extent
of your preparation for receiving it. You must therefore do two things: you must
commune frequently, and you must commune worthily, as much as this is possible
(barring any impediment designated by the sacred Canons) (Heortodromion [Festal
Guide]. vol. 1 [Thessaloniki: Orthodoxos Kypsele, 1987], 6869).
94. Translators note: This quote is taken from Gennadios Scholarios (De Sacramentali
Corpore Christi 1, PG 160, 357A), who himself says he is quoting the divine Gregory.
95. Oratio 45.15, PG 36, 644B; NPNF (V2‐07), 428.
96. Glaphyra in Exodum 2.2, PG 69, 428B.
97. De Adoratione et Cultu in Spiritu et Veritate 17, PG 68, 1077D.
98. Small Catechesis 107 (Mikra Katechesis [Thessaloniki: Orthodoxos Kypsele, 1984],
271272).
99. On John 46.34, PG 59, 260262; NPNF (V1‐14), 164165.
100. In Joannis Evangelium 4.2, PG 73, 585A.
101. Glaphyra in Exodum 2.2, PG 69, 421A421B.
102. De Adoratione et Cultu in Spiritu et Veritate 1, PG 68, 205D.
14. 103. Cf. Oratio 45.15, PG 36, 644A; NPNF (V2‐07), 428.
104. Cf. 3 Kg. [1 Kg.] 19:1112.
105. Regulae Fusius 2.1, PG 31, 908C; Saint Basil: Ascetical Works, 233.
106. Cf. 1 Cor. 5:7.
107. Adversus Judaeos 3.45, PG 48, 867868.
108. Translators note: The artoklasia is a festive service conducted within Great
Vespers, consisting of a procession, hymns, litanies, and the blessing of five loaves of
bread together with wheat, wine, and oil.
109. Translators note: Concerning this subject, see St. Symeon the New Theologian,
Ethical Discourses 14, SC 129, 422442; On the Mystical Life, vol. 1 (Crestwood: St.
Vladimirs Seminary Press, 1995), 172181.
110. Cf. Heb. 10:510.
111. De Sacerdotio 6.4, SC 272, 318; NPNF (V1‐09), 76.
112. Cf. Jn. 14:2.
113. Translators note: See St. Symeon of Thessaloniki, De Ordine Sepulturae, ch. 360,
concerning the good of frequent Communion, especially its benefits at the hour of
death (PG 155, 672B673A).
114. Cf. Ps. 50:17.
115. Cf. Quaestiones 7, PG 89, 385C‐389D. Webmaster note: On pp. 162‐165 we find
further explanation of what is meant by ʺsmall, pardonable sinsʺ. In Objection 8 Saint
Nikodemos poses the following question: Being human beings, are Christians not
disturbed by gluttony, vainglory, laughter, idle talk, and other like passions? How,
then, can they frequently commune? He continues:
St. Anastasios of Antioch responds to these people saying:
There are many people who, on account of their infrequent Communion, fall into
sins. There are others who commune more frequently, and therefore greatly protect
themselves from many evils, fearing the judgement of Holy Communion. Therefore,
if we fall into some small, pardonable sins on account of our being human, either
with our tongue, or our ears, or our eyes, and we fall as victims of deceit into
vainglory, or sorrow, or anger, or some other like sin, let us condemn ourselves and
confess to God. Thus let us partake of the Holy Mysteries, believing that the
reception of the divine Mysteries is unto the remission of sins and purification. But if
we also commit grave sins which are evil, carnal and impure, and we have rancor
15. towards our brother, until we worthily repent of these sins, let us not boldly
approach the divine Mysteries.
But because we are human beings, bearing flesh and weaknesses, and pollute
ourselves with many sins, God has given us various sacrifices unto the remission of
our sins. If we offer these sacrifices to Him, they purify us in order that we may
approach the Mysteries. Merciful almsgiving is a sacrifice which cleanses man from
sins. There is also another sacrifice which is unto salvation and the remission of sins,
concerning which the Prophet David says, A sacrifice unto God is a broken spirit; a
heart that is broken and humbled God will not despise (Ps. 50:17). [pp. 162‐3]
The Translator includes a note for the preceding passage by St. Anastasios.
ʺCommenting on the words of the Divine Liturgy: ʹThe Holy Things for the holy,ʹ St.
Nicholas Cabasilas also says:ʺ
But if we should cut ourselves off, if we should separate ourselves from the unity of
this most holy body, we partake of the Holy Mysteries in vain, for life cannot flow
into dead and amputated limbs. And what can cut off the members from this holy
body? It is your sins which have separated Me from you (Is. 59:2), says God. Does all
sin then bring death to man? No indeed, but mortal sin only; that is why it is called
mortal. For according to St. John there are sins which are not mortal (cf 1 Jn. 5:16‐17).
That is why Christians, if they have not committed such sins as would cut them off
from Christ and bring death, are in no way prevented, when partaking of the Holy
Mysteries, from receiving sanctification, not in name alone, but in fact, since they
continue to be living members united to the Head. (Sacrae Liturgiae Interpretatio 36,
PG 150, 448D‐449B; trans. A Commentary on the Divine Liturgy, 88‐89)] [pp. 164‐5]
For more on mortal vs. pardonable sins see Part I, Chapter 3 from the
Exomologetarion.
116. Apostolic Constitutions, Book 8, ch. 14, SC 336, 210; ANF (07), 491.
117. Divine Liturgy of St. Basil the Great, Prayer after the Lords Prayer.
118. Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom, Prayer after the sanctification of the Gifts.
From Concerning Frequent Communion of the Immaculate Mysteries of Christ, by our
Righteous God‐bearing Father Nikodemos the Hagiorite, trans. by Fr. George Dokos
(Thessaloniki, Greece: 2006, Uncut Mountain Press), pp. 104‐122. The full subtitle of
the book reads: ʺIncluding a thorough explanation of the Lordʹs Prayer, an apology
for frequent communion, answers to objections and clarifications of misconceptions,
and two appendices on the Divine Eucharist.ʺ Order today from Uncut Mountain
Supply! See also When and How to Receive Communion, by Archimandrite Daniel G.
Aerakis. This short book contains additional material not covered by Saint
Nikodemos. Posted on 1/2/2007 with the publisherʹs permission.