Podcasts about athanasius

Three major topics on tap today. First, William Lane Craig and the reason for suffering in conversation with Alex O'Connor. Then, a Roman Catholic plays a clip and missed my point regarding Athanasius and "apostolic tradition." Then, the Neo-Morms are on the rise, and we get a confession of faith from one of them.

Important Links:Dad Tired Annual RetreatHost A Dad Tired Conference at your churchJoin the FREE Family Leadership ProgramShop the Dad Tired store for best-selling gearWhen your soul feels anxious, restless, angry, or worn down, what do you do?In this episode of Dad Tired, Pastor Kaleb points men back to one of the most overlooked gifts God has given us for caring for our souls: the Psalms. The Psalms give language to the deepest parts of us — our fear, sorrow, repentance, betrayal, joy, gratitude, and hope.If you've ever thought, “I don't even know what's going on inside of me,” this episode will help you see the Psalms as God's invitation to pray when you don't know how to pray.Kaleb walks through how Jesus, the apostles, and the early church leaned on the Psalms in moments of suffering, anxiety, worship, and spiritual battle. You'll be encouraged to stop treating the Psalms as ancient poetry only, and start using them as daily prayers for your soul.In this episode, you'll learn:How the Psalms help diagnose and shepherd your soulWhy Jesus prayed the Psalms in His sufferingHow the early church used the Psalms in moments of fear and persecutionWhy the Psalms give language to anxiety, repentance, grief, and worshipA simple practice for praying through the Psalms each weekWhether you're anxious, tired, tempted, grateful, or grieving, the Psalms give you words to bring your whole heart before God.Mentioned in this episode:Psalm 22, Psalm 23, Psalm 42, Psalm 51, Psalm 63, Psalm 88, Psalm 91, Psalm 103, Psalm 116, Matthew 26, Acts 4, John Calvin, Athanasius, Basil of Caesarea. Important Links:Dad Tired Annual RetreatHost A Dad Tired Conference at your churchJoin the FREE Family Leadership ProgramShop the Dad Tired store for best-selling gear

Rome's decline sounds uncomfortably familiar as Al, Zach, John Luke, and Christian compare the empire's political chaos, devalued currency, and hunger for centralized power to warning signs in America today. The guys discuss why Christianity has always threatened governments that want ultimate control, since believers answer to God before the state. Al connects Diocletian's leadership reforms to the biblical wisdom Jethro gave Moses, and they wrestle with the difficult duty to pray for leaders even when Christians strongly disagree with them. Need a refresher on Ancient Christianity? Check out the previous episode on this topic at https://youtu.be/vP3u0pQP74c?si=cnpxf7EFOI2nMmnQ Today's conversation is about Lesson 8 of Ancient Christianity taught by visiting Hillsdale Professor of History Kenneth Calvert. Take the course with us at no cost to you! Sign up at http://unashamedforhillsdale.com/. More about Ancient Christianity: Christ entered the world during the reign of Caesar Augustus. The tensions between Christianity and the Roman Empire shaped the daily practice of the Christian faith and led many Romans to distrust and persecute the early Christians. But Christianity also benefitted from the Roman world. And when Rome collapsed in the West, Christianity provided the hope for preserving civilization. In this free, eleven-lecture course, Professor Kenneth Calvert will explore: How the Jewish, Greek, and Roman cultures all contributed to preparing the world to hear the Gospel. Why many Romans distrusted and persecuted the early Christians. The inspiring stories of Christ, His apostles, and faithful ones throughout the first four centuries of Christianity. The arguments of key early Christian apologists—Ignatius, Irenaeus, Justin, Athanasius, and more—who defended and defined the Christian faith amidst the animosity of the Roman world. The conversion of Constantine and how he brought stability to Rome, and how the rivalry between his sons almost returned Rome to paganism. How Augustine's writings helped preserve the message of Christianity during the collapse of the Roman Empire in the West. You will discover the uncertainties, trials, and triumphs of the earliest Christians as they confronted controversies within the faith and persecutions from outside it. Join us today to discover the improbable and miraculous story of Christianity. Sign up at ⁠http://unashamedforhillsdale.com/ Check out At Home with Phil Robertson, nearly 800 episodes of Phil's unfiltered wisdom, humor, and biblical truth, available for free for the first time! Get it on Apple, Spotify, Amazon, and anywhere you listen to podcasts! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/at-home-with-phil-robertson/id1835224621 Listen to Not Yet Now with Zach Dasher on Apple, Spotify, iHeart, or anywhere you get podcasts. Chapters 00:00 Al's Awkward Haircut Dilemma 05:30 Old-School Barbers & “Bughead” Trauma 11:04 Rome's Money Problems Sound Familiar 16:01 Why Rome Saw Christianity as a Threat 19:08 Freedom Without God Starts to Devour Itself 24:28 The Wisdom of Shared Power 30:03 Galerius Brings Peace, Heresy Follows 36:18 Wrapping Your Brain Around the Trinity 40:16 The Church's Role in the Secular World — Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. White tackles three major topics: William Lane Craig on suffering, a Roman Catholic missing the point on Athanasius & apostolic tradition, and a confession of faith from the rising "Neo-Morms."

If you enjoy this episode, we're sure you will enjoy more content like this on The Occult Rejects.  In fact, we have curated playlists on occult topics like grimoires, esoteric concepts and phenomena, occult history, analyzing true crime and cults with an occult lens, Para politics, and occultism in music. Whether you enjoy consuming your content visually or via audio, we've got you covered - and it will always be provided free of charge.  So, if you enjoy what we do and want to support our work of providing accessible, free content on various platforms, please consider making a donation to the links provided below.  Thank you and enjoy the episode!Links For The Occult Rejectshttps://linktr.ee/theoccultrejectsOccult Research Institutehttps://www.occultresearchinstitute.org/Cash Apphttps://cash.app/$theoccultrejectsVenmo@TheOccultRejectsBuy Me A Coffeebuymeacoffee.com/TheOccultRejectsPatreonhttps://www.patreon.com/TheOccultRejectsPart 2 — Core Citations / BibliographySecondary Works and Reference SourcesEncyclopaedia Britannica. “Perpetua.”Encyclopaedia Britannica. “The Passion of Saints Perpetua and Felicity.”Encyclopaedia Britannica. “Polycarp.”Encyclopaedia Britannica. “Christianity: Relations between Christianity and the Roman Government and the Hellenistic Culture.”Encyclopaedia Britannica. “Decius.”Encyclopaedia Britannica. “Diocletian.”Encyclopaedia Britannica. “Christianity: Catechesis: Instructing Candidates for Baptism.”Encyclopaedia Britannica. “Kerygma and Catechesis.”Encyclopaedia Britannica. “Exorcism.”Encyclopaedia Britannica. “Eucharist.”Encyclopaedia Britannica. “Early Christian Art.”Smarthistory. “Catacomb of Priscilla, Rome.”Vatican Museums. “Jonah Sarcophagus.”Yale News. “House Call: A New Study Rethinks Early Christian Landmark.”Yale News. “Yale Art Gallery Painting Might Be Oldest Known Image of the Virgin Mary.”Yale University Art Gallery. Materials on Dura-Europos and the Christian Building/Baptistery.Encyclopaedia Britannica. “Chi-Rho.”Encyclopaedia Britannica. “Paschal Controversies.”Encyclopaedia Britannica. “Melito of Sardis.”Encyclopaedia Britannica. “Christology: Early History.”Encyclopaedia Britannica. “Docetism.”Encyclopaedia Britannica. “Adoptionism.”Encyclopaedia Britannica. “Cerinthus.”Encyclopaedia Britannica. “Theodotus the Tanner.”Encyclopaedia Britannica. “St. Ignatius of Antioch.”Encyclopaedia Britannica. “Apologist.”Encyclopaedia Britannica. “Saint Justin Martyr.”Encyclopaedia Britannica. “First Apology.”Encyclopaedia Britannica. “Dialogue with Trypho.”Encyclopaedia Britannica. “Celsus.”Encyclopaedia Britannica. “Christianity: Apologetics: Defending the Faith.”Encyclopaedia Britannica. “Tertullian.”Encyclopaedia Britannica. “Athenagoras.”Encyclopaedia Britannica. “First Letter of Clement.”Encyclopaedia Britannica. “St. Cyprian.”Encyclopaedia Britannica. “Novatian.”Encyclopaedia Britannica. “Saint Irenaeus.”Encyclopaedia Britannica. “Christianity: Aversion of Heresy: The Establishment of Orthodoxy.”Encyclopaedia Britannica. “The Process of Canonization.”Encyclopaedia Britannica. “Late 2nd-Century Canons.”Encyclopaedia Britannica. “Muratorian Fragment.”Encyclopaedia Britannica. “Biblical Canon.”Encyclopaedia Britannica. “Codex.”Encyclopaedia Britannica. “Christianity: Authority and Dissent.”Encyclopaedia Britannica. “Christianity: Relations between Christianity and Judaism.”Joshua Ezra Burns. “The Parting of the Ways in Contemporary Perspective.” In The Christian Schism in Jewish History and Jewish Memory. Cambridge University Press.Adam H. Becker and Annette Yoshiko Reed, eds. The Ways That Never Parted: Jews and Christians in Late Antiquity and the Early Middle Ages. Fortress Press.Judith Lieu. Neither Jew nor Greek? Constructing Early Christianity. T&T Clark.Encyclopaedia Britannica. “Constantine I.”Encyclopaedia Britannica. “Arianism.”Encyclopaedia Britannica. “First Council of Nicaea.”Encyclopaedia Britannica. “Saint Athanasius.”Encyclopaedia Britannica. “Festal Letters.”Encyclopaedia Britannica. “First Council of Constantinople.”Primary Texts UsedThe Martyrdom of Polycarp. Used for the early literary shaping of martyrdom, witness, bishop-martyr memory, and the theological interpretation of death.The Passion of Saints Perpetua and Felicity. Used for imprisonment, trial, visions, martyrdom, and the rare preserved voice of a female Christian martyr.Apostolic Tradition, traditionally associated with Hippolytus. Used for baptismal preparation, catechumenal scrutiny, exorcism, fasting, vigil, renunciation, oil, and immersion.1 John 4. Used for the anti-docetic pressure around confessing Jesus Christ as having “come in the flesh.”Ignatius of Antioch. Letter to the Smyrnaeans. Used for Christ's real flesh, real suffering, Eucharistic theology, and bishop-centered unity.Ignatius of Antioch. Letter to the Philadelphians and related letters. Useful backup for episcopal unity, Eucharistic order, and anti-schismatic arguments.Melito of Sardis. On Pascha. Used for Paschal theology, Christ as Pascha, typology, and Christian interpretation of Passover.Justin Martyr. First Apology. Used for apologetics, public defense, accusations against Christians, Eucharistic misunderstanding, and Christian worship.Justin Martyr. Dialogue with Trypho. Used for Christian-Jewish polemic, scriptural inheritance, fulfillment arguments, and the hardening separation between Christianity and Judaism.Athenagoras. A Plea for the Christians / Embassy for the Christians. Used as a major example of second-century apologetics addressed to imperial authority.Athenagoras. On the Resurrection of the Dead. Used as a philosophical Christian defense of resurrection.Tertullian. Apology. Used for Latin apologetics, Christian defense against Roman accusation, and the combative posture toward pagan criticism.Tertullian. Prescription Against Heretics. Useful backup for rule of faith, public apostolic teaching, and anti-heretical boundary-making.Origen. Against Celsus. Used for Celsus' pagan critique and Origen's major intellectual defense of Christianity.Celsus. The True Word / True Doctrine. Survives mainly through Origen's quotations and refutations; used for educated pagan criticism of Christianity.First Letter of Clement. Used for early ministry order, Roman intervention in Corinth, appointed bishops and deacons, and the emerging logic of succession.Cyprian of Carthage. On the Unity of the Catholic Church. Used for episcopal unity, schism, discipline, and the theological seriousness of the bishop's office.Novatian. De Trinitate. Used as a witness to mid-third-century theological conflict and Roman Latin theology.Irenaeus. Against Heresies. Used for anti-gnostic consolidation, rule of truth, fourfold Gospel authority, apostolic succession, and public apostolic memory.Eusebius. Ecclesiastical History. Used for the Paschal controversy, Polycarp and Anicetus, Victor and Polycrates, Irenaeus' intervention, early church memory, and the broader historical framing.The Didachē. Used as part of the wider early Christian literary world that remained influential outside the final New Testament canon.Letter of Barnabas. Used for anti-Jewish polemic, allegorical reading of Hebrew Scripture, and Christian claims over Israel's inheritance.The Shepherd of Hermas. Used as an example of a beloved early Christian text that was widely read but later excluded from the New Testament canon.Apocalypse of Peter. Used as part of the wider early Christian apocalyptic library that circulated before the canon fully closed.Muratorian Fragment. Used for the late-second-century Roman list of recognized Christian writings and the emerging shape of the New Testament.Cyril of Jerusalem. Mystagogical Catecheses. Used for post-baptismal instruction and the interpretation of initiation after the rite had been received.Ambrose of Milan. On the Mysteries and On the Sacraments. Used for mystagogical teaching, baptismal interpretation, anointing, and sacramental instruction.The Nicene Creed / First Council of Nicaea, 325. Used for creed formation, anti-Arian settlement attempts, and the conciliar compression of Christological conflict.Athanasius. Festal Letter 39. Used for the earliest surviving list matching the 27-book New Testament canon recognized in the mainstream tradition.Constantinopolitan Creed / First Council of Constantinople, 381. Used for the later stabilization and expansion of Nicene theological identity.Also want to remind people about the website, if you're into reading we have tons of information by multiple contributors, and we got t-shirts up on the site if you're interested. Fun fact, the art is all based on the eyeball. A

In this homily on Christ's prayer "that they may be one," Father Anthony reflects on humanity's calling to communion and the tragic ease with which sin turns even good things into instruments of division. Drawing on the example of Arius and the divisions of the modern world, he argues that the deepest fractures in society begin not in institutions but in the human heart. The healing of the world therefore begins not with self-righteous outrage or victory over enemies, but with repentance, humility, holiness, and the difficult work of learning to love one another in Christ.  Enjoy the show! --- Homily - Becoming One in Christ Sunday after Ascension John 17:1-13 Today we hear our Lord pray for His people: that they may be one. Not merely friendly, not merely cooperative, but one. And not just one in purpose or organization. He says: "that they may be one, as We are one." This is an astonishing thing. The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are distinct persons, yet perfectly united in love, perfectly united in will, perfectly united in life. And this is what mankind was created for. We were not made for isolation. We were not made for hatred. We were not made for endless suspicion and division. We were made for communion. The Apostle Paul gives us another image for this mystery. He says that we are one body, with Christ Himself as the head. This is what salvation is: not merely individual forgiveness, but the healing and reunification of humanity in Christ. The Church exists so that the scattered may be gathered together. So that enemies may become brothers. So that strangers may become family. So that what sin shattered may be made whole again. But if we are honest, we know that we are not doing a very good job of this. We live in a world increasingly defined by division. And the frightening thing is how naturally division now comes to us. Even the tools that were meant to unite us become instruments of separation. Not long ago, new technologies promised to reconnect people. Families separated by distance could remain close. Old friends could reconnect. Communities could stay in touch. And for a moment, it seemed wonderful. But how quickly did sin find a way to use those same tools for anger, condemnation, mockery, tribalism, and hatred? Love creates communion. Pride creates factions. And pride is endlessly creative. We divide ourselves by politics, by class, by race, by ideology, by education, by culture, by nation, and even by theology. We define ourselves not by what we love together, but by whom we oppose. And once division takes hold, it begins to feel righteous. We become certain that we are the ones who see clearly, and everyone else is blind. This is not a new temptation. The early Church struggled with it as well. In the fourth century, a priest named Arius became convinced that he understood the mystery of Christ better than the Church herself. He read the Scriptures, formed his conclusions, and became absolutely certain that he was right. When the bishops gathered together at Nicaea and proclaimed the faith handed down through the apostles—that Christ is eternally begotten of the Father, true God of true God, of one essence with the Father—Arius refused to repent. Now it is easy for us to hear this story and imagine ourselves standing heroically with the saints. We imagine ourselves as Athanasius defending the truth. Or perhaps as Saint Nicholas rebuking heresy. But if I am honest, that is usually not who I am in the story. I am the man who justifies himself. I am the man who explains why his anger is righteous, why his condemnation is necessary, why his enemies deserve contempt, why his divisions are justified. I am the man who says: "I know how the world works. I know who is wrong. I know who is to blame." And this is where the healing must begin. Because the greatest divisions in the world do not begin in legislatures, or courts, or media, or institutions. They begin in the human heart. Sin always begins there. And sin does not remain private. We often imagine that our bitterness, our contempt, our pride, our hatred remain safely hidden within us. But they do not. Sin has consequences. Sin shapes perception. Sin distorts judgment. Sin affects families, friendships, communities, and nations. Love creates communion. Pride creates factions. And if pride rules the heart, even good things become corrupted. Policies cannot save us. Technology cannot save us. Political victories cannot save us. Because sin will always find a way to weaponize them. A divided heart creates division wherever it goes. This does not mean that justice does not matter. It does not mean that laws do not matter. It does not mean that evil should be ignored. But it does mean that the healing of the world begins somewhere much closer than we often imagine. It begins with repentance. Not the repentance of our enemies. Our own. The saints understood this. Saint Seraphim famously said: "Acquire the Spirit of peace, and thousands around you will be saved." Notice where he begins. Not with controlling the world. Not with defeating enemies. Not with forcing outcomes. But with repentance. With purification of the heart. With peace in Christ. This is incredibly liberating. Because when we look at the divisions of the world, it is easy to become overwhelmed. It is easy to think: "This can never be healed." But Christ has already shown us how healing begins. I repent of my sins. I learn humility. I learn patience. I learn how to forgive. I learn how to see my brother not as an enemy, but as someone for whom Christ died. And then grace begins to spread outward. Christ heals my heart. Then my family. Then my friendships. Then my parish. And through the lives of repentant people, the world itself begins to change. This is how the saints transformed civilizations. Not primarily through power. Not through outrage. Not through self-righteousness. But through holiness. The Lord did not command us to win every argument. He commanded us to love one another. And this love is not sentimental weakness. It is crucifixion. It is humility. It is patience. It is refusing to hate. It is the hard and holy work of becoming one in Christ. My brothers and sisters, the world is hungry for this kind of witness. Not more noise. Not more fury. Not more factions. The world is hungry for peace. For holiness. For communion. For Christ. So let us begin where the saints always begin: with repentance. "Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner." And through that prayer, may Christ heal our hearts, our homes, our parish, and through them, the world. In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

The sermon focuses on the significance of Christ's ascension, marking the completion of His earthly mission and His exaltation to the right hand of the Father, where He now intercedes for the Church and prepares a place for believers.

In this sermon for the 6th Sunday of Easter, Pastor Douthwaite explores the profound link between love and obedience. He argues that keeping God's commandments should not be a matter of fear, obligation, or "going through the motions," but rather a natural overflow of a heart filled with love. This transformation is made possible by the Holy Spirit—the "Helper"—who connects believers to the perfect love of Jesus. The sermon emphasizes that our hope is not found in our own efforts or obedience, but in the victory of Christ's resurrection, which enables us to live and love as sons and daughters of God.

Tuesday of the Fifth Week of Easter Saint of the Day: St. Maximus of Jerusalem; succeeded St. Macanus as bishop of Jerusalem around 335; he was crippled by tortures received during the persecutions of his day; originally opposed St. Athanasius, but repented and became a strong enemy of the Arians; Maximus died in 350 Office of Readings and Morning Prayer for 5/5/26 Gospel: John 14:27-31a

The readings for this homily: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/050226.cfmFather Anthony Gramlich, MIC, compares heresy to a cancer that spreads through pride, using the story of the early heretic Arius, who denied the divinity of Jesus Christ, to illustrate why the Church must define doctrine to protect the faithful from error. He urges believers to adopt the humility of St. Athanasius, the great champion of orthodoxy against the Arian heresy, choosing to say “I believe” in the Creed even when full understanding is not yet reached. By rejecting doubt and embracing the unchanging truth of Christ's divinity, we guard our souls against error and align ourselves with the truth about the eternal nature of God.⭐️ Support our Ministries: https://www.thedivinemercy.org/donate?source=YT✝️ Explore Divine Mercy on Divine Mercy Plus! https://divinemercyplus.org/?source=YT⛪️ Plan Your Visit to the National Shrine of The Divine Mercy!https://www.shrineofdivinemercy.org/?source=YTFollow Us on Social Media!   

Morning Prayer for Saturday, May 2, 2026 (The Fourth Sunday of Easter: Good Shepherd; Athanasius, Bishop of Alexandria and Teacher of the Faith, 373).Psalm and Scripture readings (60-day Psalter):Psalm 148Deuteronomy 3Luke 3:1-22Trinity Anglican Seminary is built on the same daily prayer rhythms you practice every time you hit play. Morning Prayer. Evening Prayer. Weekly Eucharist. It's a place where chapel and classroom aren't two separate worlds, they're one. This June, you can experience it firsthand, whether you're seeking a degree or just a week of learning and formation. Intensive registration is open now at tas.edu/dailyoffice.Click here to support The Daily Office Podcast with a one-time gift or a recurring donation.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click here to access the text for the Daily Office at DailyOffice2019.com.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Evening Prayer for Saturday, May 2, 2026 (Eve of the Fifth Sunday of Easter; Athanasius, Bishop of Alexandria and Teacher of the Faith, 373).Psalm and Scripture readings (60-day Psalter):Psalms 149-150Job 30James 5Trinity Anglican Seminary is built on the same daily prayer rhythms you practice every time you hit play. Morning Prayer. Evening Prayer. Weekly Eucharist. It's a place where chapel and classroom aren't two separate worlds, they're one. This June, you can experience it firsthand, whether you're seeking a degree or just a week of learning and formation. Intensive registration is open now at tas.edu/dailyoffice.Click here to support The Daily Office Podcast with a one-time gift or a recurring donation.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click here to access the text for the Daily Office at DailyOffice2019.com.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for Saturday of the Fourth Week of Easter by Mr. Clement Harrold. Athanasius, Bishop, Doctor Obligatory Memorial First Reading: Acts 13: 44-52 Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 98: 1, 2-3ab, 3cd-4 Alleluia: John 8: 31b-32 Gospel: John 14: 7-14   Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com To encounter Christ in Scripture and share Him with others. Join us at www.stpaulcenter.com/memberships

St. Athanasius, Bishop, Doctor of the Church (Memorial)

Send us Fan MailOne question lit the fuse of a crisis that nearly tore the early Church apart: Who is Jesus Christ, really? If He's merely the highest creature, then the Cross becomes tragedy without power. If He's truly God, “light from light,” then everything changes, from the meaning of the Incarnation to the hope of salvation.We walk through the dramatic life of Saint Athanasius of Alexandria with Brother Joseph as your guide, following the young deacon who helped shape the Council of Nicaea and then spent decades paying the price for refusing to dilute the truth. We explain Arianism in plain terms, why its logic sounded persuasive, and why the Church answered with the bold language of the Nicene Creed: begotten not made, consubstantial with the Father. You'll hear why Athanasius saw this as more than theology, and how the Creed protects the heart of Christian worship and the reality of Christ in the sacraments.From Athanasius' early formation in Alexandria and the desert tradition, to his election as patriarch, to exile after exile, we focus on what his endurance teaches modern Catholics living under cultural pressure. We also point you toward practical next steps for bringing the faith home through saint stories, catechesis, virtual pilgrimages, and meaningful devotional resources.If this helped you pray the Creed with new clarity, subscribe, share the show with a friend, and leave a review so more people can find these stories of Catholic faith and courage.Open by Steve Bailey Support the showChat with US 24/7 Ask us anything https://chatting.page/mjxs9aerrtgm3lmpndlcepmbyosntrjnDownload Journeys of Faith App for Iphone or Android FREE https://journeysoffaith.com/pages/download-our-appJourneys of Faith brings your Super Saints PodcastsPlease consider subscribing to this podcast or making a donation to Journeys of Faith Help us Grow!Why you should shop here at Journeys of Faith official site!New Mega Search Engine!Lowest Prices and Higher discounts up to 50%Free Shipping starts at $18 - Express Safe Checkout Click HereCannot find it let us find or create it - - Click HereRewards Program is active - click Here

Saturday of the Fourth Week of Easter Memorial of St. Athanasius; Fourth Century bishop of Alexandria; became a theological advisor at the Council of Nicea when he was still in his late twenties; he opposed Arianism and defended the divinity of the Son of Man; he wrote many works on the Incarnation and the Trinity as well as The Life of Anthony, which helped define and foster both monastic living and the writing of saints’ lives; he died in 373 A.D. Office of Readings and Morning Prayer for 5/2/26 Gospel: John 14:7-14

On May 2nd, the Catholic Church celebrates the life of St. Athanasius - Bishop and Doctor of the Church. Born in the late 200s in Alexandria - one of the major hubs of Christianity. While we remember St. Athanasius as a hero of the early church, he had lots of enemies in his day, who sent him into exile on five different occasions. We often think that the First Council of Nicaea did away with the Arianism, but as you'll learn in this episode, it was church fathers like St. Athanasius that fought Arianism in the trenches. SOCIAL LINKS* Follow Why Catholic on Instagram.* Subscribe to Why Catholic on YouTube.* Follow Justin on Facebook.SHOW NOTES* Episode 147: The World that Led to the Council of Nicaea* Episode 148: The First Council of Nicaea (325)* Episode 149: From Nicaea to Constantinople* Episode 150: The First Council of Constantinople (381) Get full access to Why Catholic? at whycatholic.substack.com/subscribe

The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for Saturday of the Fourth Week of Easter by Mr. Clement Harrold. Athanasius, Bishop, Doctor Obligatory Memorial First Reading: Acts 13: 44-52 Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 98: 1, 2-3ab, 3cd-4 Alleluia: John 8: 31b-32 Gospel: John 14: 7-14   Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com To encounter Christ in Scripture and share Him with others. Join us at www.stpaulcenter.com/memberships

5-2-26: Incarnation – St. Athanasius by

Full Text of Readings Memorial of Saint Athanasius, Bishop and Doctor of the Church Lectionary: 284 The Saint of the day is Saint Athanasius Saint Athanasius' Story Athanasius led a tumultuous but dedicated life of service to the Church. He was the great champion of the faith against the widespread heresy of Arianism, the teaching by Arius that Jesus was not truly divine. The vigor of his writings earned him the title of doctor of the Church. Born of a Christian family in Alexandria, Egypt, and given a classical education, Athanasius became secretary to Alexander, the bishop of Alexandria, entered the priesthood and was eventually named bishop himself. His predecessor, Alexander, had been an outspoken critic of a new movement growing in the East—Arianism. When he assumed his role as bishop of Alexandria, he continued the fight against Arianism. At first, it seemed that the battle would be easily won and that Arianism would be condemned. Such, however, did not prove to be the case. The Council of Tyre was called and for several reasons that are still unclear, the Emperor Constantine exiled Athanasius to northern Gaul. This was to be the first in a series of travels and exiles reminiscent of the life of Saint Paul. After Constantine died, his son restored him as bishop. This lasted only a year, however, for he was deposed once again by a coalition of Arian bishops. He took his case to Rome, and Pope Julius I called a synod to review the case and other related matters. Five times Athanasius was exiled for his defense of the doctrine of Christ's divinity. During one period of his life, he enjoyed 10 years of relative peace—reading, writing, and promoting the Christian life along the lines of the monastic ideal to which he was greatly devoted. His dogmatic and historical writings are almost all polemic, directed against every aspect of Arianism. Among his ascetical writings, his Life of St. Anthony achieved astonishing popularity and contributed greatly to the establishment of monastic life throughout the Western Christian world. Reflection Athanasius suffered many trials while he was bishop of Alexandria. He was given the grace to remain strong against what probably seemed at times to be insurmountable opposition. Athanasius lived his office as bishop completely. He defended the true faith for his flock, regardless of the cost to himself. In today's world we are experiencing this same call to remain true to our faith, no matter what.Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media

Antonius wird als Sohn christlicher Eltern geboren. Nach ihrem Tod gibt er sein Erbe auf und wählt das Leben als Eremit. Antonius wird prägend sein für diese neue Lebensform. Er soll über 100 Jahre alt geworden sein.**********Ihr hört in dieser Folge "Eine Stunde History":6:12 - Tobias Sauer beobachtet Athanasius, den Bischof von Alexandria, wie er biographische Notizen über den heiligen Antonius anfertigt11:46 - Theologe Peter Gemeinhardt beschreibt den Lebensweg von Antonius und seine Motivation, in die Einsiedelei zu gehen22:06 - Maria Anna Leenen lebt heute als Eremitin in der Nähe eines kleinen Dorfes in Niedersachsen. Sie beschreibt ihr Leben und die Gründe, ein Leben als Einsiedlerin zu führen.31:08 - Historiker Christoph Stiegemann vom Pastoralverbund Corvey beschreibt den Prozess der Christianisierung Europas**********Mehr zum Thema bei Deutschlandfunk Nova:Römisches Reich: Der Partherfeldzug von Kaiser TrajanKirchengeschichte: das Zweite Vatikanische Konzil 1962 bis 1965NS-Staat und Kirche: Kardinal von Galen zwischen Anpassung und Widerstand**********Den Artikel zum Stück findet ihr hier.**********Ihr könnt uns auch auf diesen Kanälen folgen: TikTok und Instagram .**********In dieser Folge mit: Moderation: Markus Dichmann Gesprächspartner: Dr. Matthias von Hellfeld, Deutschlandfunk-Nova-Geschichtsexperte Gesprächspartner: Peter Gemeinhardt, Theologe Gesprächspartnerin: Maria Anna Leenen, Eremitin Gesprächspartner: Christoph Stiegemann, Historiker Autor: Tobias Sauer, Deutschlandfunk-Nova-Reporter

Psalm 21Psalm 92Reading 1: Acts 20Reading 2: From a discourse by St. Athanasius, bishopSt. Helena Ministries is a registered 501(c)3 non-profit. Your donations may be tax-deductibleSupport us at: sthelenaministries.com/supportPresentation of the Liturgy of the Hours (Divine Office) from The Liturgy of the Hours (Four Volumes) © 1975, International Commission on English in the Liturgy Corporation. The texts of Biblical readings are reproduced from the New American Bible © 1975

Welcome to Day 2851 of Wisdom-Trek, and thank you for joining me. This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom – Theosis and Its Counterfeit: How Hermeticism, Gnosticism, and Their Heirs Distorted Deification. Wisdom-Trek Podcast Script - Day 2851 Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps!   I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2851 of our Trek.   The Purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before. Our current series of Theology Thursday lessons is written by theologian and teacher John Daniels. I have found that his lessons are short, easy to understand, doctrinally sound, and applicable to all who desire to learn more of God's Word. John's lessons can be found on his website   theologyinfive.com.   Today's lesson is titled:  Theosis and Its Counterfeit: How Hermeticism, Gnosticism, and Their Heirs Distorted Deification. The Eastern Orthodox Church preserves one of the most profound teachings of Christianity: theosis, or deification. This doctrine is not about erasing the line between Creator and creation but about God drawing humanity into His own life. Through Christ's incarnation, death, and resurrection, believers become partakers of the divine nature, not by nature but by grace. Athanasius expressed it clearly: “God became man so that man might become god.” By this, the Fathers never meant that humanity becomes equal to Yahweh in essence. Rather, theosis means that through grace we are healed, restored, and glorified in Christ, sharing in His life while always remaining His creatures. The Counterfeit in Eden The serpent in Eden also offered a form of deification. His words, “You will be like gods,” suggested that humanity could seize by rebellion what God intended to give through communion. The Eastern Orthodox vision of theosis fulfills God's purpose, while the serpent's promise distorts it. Throughout history, this distortion has reappeared in many guises, most notably in Hermeticism and Gnosticism. Echoes of Antediluvian Rebellion Many occult systems, whether ancient mystery religions or modern esoteric revivals, could have drawn their perceived legitimacy from the idea that they recover lost knowledge from before the Flood. Traditions surrounding the Watchers, the Apkallu, or figures like Prometheus all involve heavenly beings imparting forbidden wisdom to humanity in defiance of divine boundaries. This knowledge, which included arts, sciences, and sorcery, was not neutral. It was given with the intent to corrupt and destroy. After the Flood, while the physical giants perished, their spirits, what later literature calls demons, remained. These disembodied spirits could have been the source of insight or inspiration for occult practitioners throughout history, masquerading as guides to hidden wisdom while promoting rebellion against God. Whether through direct contact or mythic lineage, many esoteric movements trace their roots back to this primeval transgression. Hermeticism: Optimistic Gnosis The Corpus Hermeticum, composed in the early centuries of the Christian era, fused Egyptian religion with Greek philosophy. It taught that humans contain a divine spark that can be awakened through hidden wisdom. Salvation came not through God's grace but through gnosis, mystical ascent, and the realization of one's innate divinity. Unlike Gnosticism, Hermeticism viewed the cosmos more positively, as a reflection of divine order, but its end goal was the same: erasing the line between Creator and creation. Gnosticism: Dualistic Gnosis Gnosticism developed in the same cultural environment and shared Hermeticism's focus on hidden wisdom and the divine spark in man. But it was far more pessimistic. Many Gnostic systems taught that the material world was a prison fashioned by a false or ignorant creator, the Demiurge. Salvation meant escaping matter entirely and returning to the realm of spirit. Its texts, like the Apocryphon of John or the Gospel of Thomas, presented elaborate myths of aeons, archons, and cosmic struggles that reframed rebellion as enlightenment. Parallel Streams of Corruption Though different in tone, Hermeticism optimistic and Gnosticism pessimistic, both traditions proclaimed salvation by gnosis. Both claimed man was divine by nature. Both promised deification apart from Christ. And both blurred or destroyed the Creator–creature distinction. Where Orthodoxy taught communion by grace, Hermeticism and Gnosticism promised exaltation by hidden knowledge. Renaissance Rediscovery and Transmission In the Renaissance, Hermetic and Gnostic writings were rediscovered and hailed as the prisca theologia, a supposed universal truth older than Moses. Figures like Marsilio Ficino and Pico della Mirandola embraced these texts as revelations of timeless wisdom. Their influence spread through alchemy, astrology, and ritual magic, setting the stage for later esoteric societies. Hermetic optimism and Gnostic dualism together nourished the roots of Western occultism. Freemasonry Freemasonry grew out of the esoteric ferment of the Renaissance and Enlightenment, which were themselves shaped by the rediscovery of the Hermetic and Gnostic writings. While the fraternity presents itself publicly as a system of moral improvement and brotherhood, its inner symbolism and ritual language reveal a strong dependence on Hermetic and alchemical traditions. The Masonic use of sacred geometry, the emphasis on hidden degrees of initiation, and the maxim “as above, so below” all trace back to the Corpus Hermeticum and related Hermetic texts. The Renaissance had already reintroduced these ideas into European culture, presenting Hermeticism and Gnosticism as prisca theologia, a supposed ancient wisdom that underlay all religions. These concepts filtered into Rosicrucian manifestos in the seventeenth century, which combined mystical Christianity with alchemy and Hermetic philosophy. Rosicrucian influence, in turn, fed directly into the development of modern Freemasonry in the eighteenth century. The lodge thus became an heir to the Hermetic worldview, reframing gnosis not in overtly pagan terms but as moral allegory and ritual drama. Freemasonry's initiation system reflects the Gnostic idea that truth is revealed progressively to an inner circle of the enlightened. The candidate begins in ignorance, is symbolically “raised” to new life, and ascends through degrees of increasing illumination. The rituals employ veiled symbols and allegories rather than explicit teaching, echoing the Hermetic conviction that divine truths must be concealed from the unworthy and revealed only to initiates. This places Freemasonry in continuity with both Hermetic mysteries and Gnostic elitism. Although Freemasonry claims to honor God, it deliberately leaves the identity of God undefined. Its universalist ethos allows men of any faith to participate, so long as they acknowledge a Supreme Being. This broad inclusivity is not biblical covenantal faith but a continuation of Hermetic universalism, which treated all religions as partial reflections of a hidden wisdom tradition. By blending fragments of biblical language with Hermetic symbols and Gnostic structures, Freemasonry offers a path of human self-perfection and enlightenment apart from Christ. Mormonism Mormonism reflects both the Hermetic worldview and Masonic ritual structure. Long before Joseph Smith entered a Masonic lodge in Nauvoo, he was already immersed in practices rooted in Hermetic and occult traditions. In his youth, Smith participated in treasure-seeking expeditions using a divining rod, seer stones, and ritual circles. These tools and practices were drawn from the folk-magic culture of early America, which itself was saturated with ideas that had filtered down from Renaissance Hermeticism and alchemical traditions. The belief that hidden knowledge could be accessed through special instruments, secret formulas, and visionary techniques fits neatly within the Hermetic framework of unlocking the unseen world. When Smith later became a Mason in 1842, he layered these Hermetic practices with Masonic structures. Within weeks of his initiation, he introduced LDS temple ceremonies that bore striking resemblances to Masonic rituals, including secret handshakes, symbolic clothing, and oaths of secrecy. Just as Freemasonry framed its degrees as progressive revelations of hidden wisdom, so too did Smith present Mormon temple ordinances as the means by which believers gained access to the mysteries of exaltation. Doctrinally, Mormonism's teaching of eternal progression mirrors the Hermetic promise of apotheosis. God the Father is said to have been a man who became a god, and faithful men may follow the same path. This collapses the biblical distinction between Creator and creature and transforms salvation into a process of exaltation through hidden rites and teachings. The Mormon vision of countless gods presiding over countless worlds echoes the multiplicity of divine beings in Hermetic and Gnostic systems, while its temple ceremonies function as initiatory mysteries in which knowledge is revealed step by step. From his earliest magical experiments...

Dr. Jacobs returns to the podcast with a personal update on his time away, news about the upcoming East West Series, and reflections from Holy Week, Pascha, and Bright Week on Mount Athos. In this episode, he shares stories from Vatopedi Monastery, discusses miracles, relics, and monastic life, and offers insight into how these experiences challenge modern skepticism and deepen faith.Support the East West series: http://theeastwestseries.com/Leave a comment on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yIZVUy5v32MBreakwater Festival 2026 | 19–21 June | London:I'll be speaking at Breakwater Festival 2026, a 3-day Estuary gathering focused on bringing online conversations into real-life dialogue and connection. This year's theme, Cross Pollination: Conversing Across Religious Lines, explores how beliefs engage across difference in a pluralistic world.Join me and other speakers in London — Early Bird tickets are available now: https://www.thebreakwaternetwork.com/upcoming-eventChapters:00:00 I'm back00:13 Why I disappeared for Lent and Mount Athos02:33 What this episode covers03:00 East West Series update04:53 Production timeline and release plan05:54 Fundraising and pre-orders07:16 Why the East West Series matters09:35 Who the series is for: converts, inquirers, and online debate11:45 Vatopedi Monastery endorsement announcement14:05 Podcast facelift and rebrand16:25 New 30-minute “Coffee with Dr. Jacobs” episodes21:07 Topic requests, comments, and sharing23:30 Website simplification and one-stop hub24:20 Mount Athos reflections begin25:45 Third trip to Mount Athos and Holy Week overview28:05 Visiting Elder Paisios' hermitage30:32 Other monasteries and the capital of Athos32:55 Daily monastic rhythm: Matins, Vespers, and Compline35:19 Holy Week, Pascha, and the intensity of Athos37:41 The washing of the feet service40:09 Pascha procession and the all-night liturgy42:31 Holy Week exhaustion and conversations with monks45:00 Bright Week procession and blessing of the waters47:25 Pizza on Mount Athos49:48 Relics, miracles, and confronting modern skepticism54:29 The Belt of the Virgin Mary56:49 The True Cross and miraculous yeast59:16 St. John Chrysostom's incorrupt ear01:04:00 The Panagia Paramythia miracle icon01:08:44 Skepticism, belief, and re-enchantment01:13:26 Why skepticism feels safe01:15:41 Belief, faith, and how we live01:20:23 Why people chase the paranormal01:24:59 Culture, plausibility, and belief01:34:40 Cyprus, Lazarus, and his relics01:39:23 Great Lavra, John the Baptist, and Athanasius the Athonite01:44:17 The bullet hole icon story01:46:42 The disobedient monk and the blackened hand01:53:46 Why Mount Athos belongs to the Virgin Mary01:56:15 Final thoughts and East West Series supportDo you like this content? Join Jacobs Premium to get exclusive access to written essays, exclusive lecture series, monthly Q&A Zoom calls, and our book club. Use code: LEWIS to get a discount: https://www.thenathanjacobspodcast.com/======================================All the links:The Theological Letters Substack: https://nathanajacobs.substack.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenathanjacobspodcastX: https://x.com/NathanJacobsPodFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/nathanandrewjacobsAcademia: https://vanderbilt.academia.edu/NathanAJacobsSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0hSskUtCwDT40uFbqTk3QSApple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nathan-jacobs-podcastWords for the algorithm: East West Series, Vatopedi, Mount Athos, Pascha, Holy Week, relics, miracles, church fathers, orthodoxy, monks.

This episode centers on a crucial choice: not whether you'll follow a shepherd, but which one. While many voices—self, culture, and worldly wisdom—promise life, they ultimately lead to death, whereas Jesus Christ, the Good Shepherd, alone has overcome death and offers true, abundant life. Though following Him can be difficult and countercultural, His resurrection proves He leads through death into eternal good, inviting listeners to turn from false guides and receive His forgiveness, life, and renewal.

What if the gospel is not just about being declared right, but about being rescued from a world that keeps trying to enslave us? Cody Cook returns to the show for a conversation about Galatians, law, union with Christ, the present evil age, and the spiritual powers Jesus came to defeat. What begins as a discussion of Cody's book Delivered from the Evil Age of the Present becomes something deeper: a reflection on how we read Paul, what Galatians 4 is really saying, and why the gospel is bigger than being declared right. This episode traces the movement from law, slavery, and the “elementary principles of the world” toward rescue, adoption, new creation, and the kind of allegiance that belongs to Christ alone. They Explore: Galatians and the question of law or Christ old, new, and apocalyptic readings of Paul union with Christ, adoption, and being made new the “present evil age” and rescue through Jesus stoicheia and the “elementary principles of the world” spiritual powers, slavery, and the scope of salvation ordo amoris, J.D. Vance, and nation-first love why Christian nationalism distorts our loves

When hopes are shattered and the world feels like a collection of broken pieces, where do we find a way forward? In the encounter on the road to Emmaus, Jesus reveals that our hope is not anchored in our feelings or the shifting reports of the world, but in the steadfast and enduring Word of God. Through the breaking of the bread and the opening of the Scriptures, we discover a Savior who walks with us in our pain, restores our hope, and promises that we are never alone.

Al, Zach, John Luke, and Christian kick off with a generational clash as Gen Z slang completely derails a conversation. The guys dive into early Christianity's clash with the Roman Empire, where believers faced intense persecution and were often used as scapegoats during times of cultural and political chaos. They highlight how Christianity challenged broken systems, elevated the value of women in a degrading culture, and continues to call believers to live out their faith boldly wherever they are. In this episode: Luke 2, verses 1–7; John 18, verse 36; Acts 2, verses 1–47 Today's conversation is about Lesson 7 of Ancient Christianity taught by visiting Hillsdale Professor of History Kenneth Calvert. Take the course with us at no cost to you! Sign up at http://unashamedforhillsdale.com/. More about Ancient Christianity: Christ entered the world during the reign of Caesar Augustus. The tensions between Christianity and the Roman Empire shaped the daily practice of the Christian faith and led many Romans to distrust and persecute the early Christians. But Christianity also benefitted from the Roman world. And when Rome collapsed in the West, Christianity provided the hope for preserving civilization. In this free, eleven-lecture course, Professor Kenneth Calvert will explore: How the Jewish, Greek, and Roman cultures all contributed to preparing the world to hear the Gospel. Why many Romans distrusted and persecuted the early Christians. The inspiring stories of Christ, His apostles, and faithful ones throughout the first four centuries of Christianity. The arguments of key early Christian apologists—Ignatius, Irenaeus, Justin, Athanasius, and more—who defended and defined the Christian faith amidst the animosity of the Roman world. The conversion of Constantine and how he brought stability to Rome, and how the rivalry between his sons almost returned Rome to paganism. How Augustine's writings helped preserve the message of Christianity during the collapse of the Roman Empire in the West. You will discover the uncertainties, trials, and triumphs of the earliest Christians as they confronted controversies within the faith and persecutions from outside it. Join us today to discover the improbable and miraculous story of Christianity. Sign up at ⁠http://unashamedforhillsdale.com/ Check out At Home with Phil Robertson, nearly 800 episodes of Phil's unfiltered wisdom, humor, and biblical truth, available for free for the first time! Get it on Apple, Spotify, Amazon, and anywhere you listen to podcasts! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/at-home-with-phil-robertson/id1835224621 Listen to Not Yet Now with Zach Dasher on Apple, Spotify, iHeart, or anywhere you get podcasts. Chapters 00:00 AI Roasts & Gen Z Slang Confusion 09:05 Why Early Christians Chose Death Over Fighting 15:30 Rome's Chaos & the Rise of a Scapegoat 21:45 The Church's Bold Stand Against Power 28:10 How Christianity Elevated Women in a Broken Culture 34:40 Your Job Is Your Mission Field 41:20 Faith Under Pressure & the Cost of Following Jesus — Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This conversation I have with Dr. Baxter Krueger is one I've been sitting with since we recorded it. Barry and I get to spend over an hour with a theologian who has spent his life recovering what the early church actually believed about the kind of God we have... not a distant, watching God with a disgusted heart, but a Father who brought His Son, His Spirit, and Himself to live inside every human being. If you've ever felt like you're trying to close the gap between you and God, this one is for you.Baxter Krueger is a theologian, author, and speaker whose work has been described by a Greek Orthodox bishop as "straight out of the heart of Athanasius." He studied under JB Torrance in Scotland and has written several books including The Great Dance, Patmos, and The Mediation of Jesus Christ. His life's work is helping people move from the idea of a faraway God they have to appease... into the lived reality of a Father who is already in them and has never let go.Expect to hear the story of Baxter's son and a camouflaged friend flying through the air on a Saturday afternoon, and how that moment became the clearest picture of the gospel Baxter had ever seen, what it means that the average Christian is committed to the "real absence of Jesus" without even knowing it, how reading Athanasius at a library in Mississippi completely changed how Baxter understood God's nature, why there's no such thing as "just me" and what it looks like to see the Holy Spirit in your ordinary humanity, what it means to take sides with Jesus against the way you see God, yourself, your neighbors, and even your enemies, the practical homework Baxter gives almost everyone he meets, and how to ask Jesus your real name and actually receive an answer.Chapters:00:00 Intro00:03:26 The Real Absence of Jesus in Western Christianity00:13:05 The Book That Changed How Baxter Saw God00:28:45 The Commando Story and the Heart of the Gospel00:41:45 Why Jesus Promised Joy, Not Just Religious Duty00:53:04 Taking Sides With Jesus Against the Way You See01:01:28 The Holy Spirit Is Already in Your Ordinary Life01:07:08 Ask Jesus to Show You Five Ways You've Shared His Life01:22:03 What Could Try to Derail This Awakening01:31:56 Ask Jesus What He Calls YouIf something in this conversation stirred something in you, I'd just invite you to sit with it. And if you want to go deeper into actually hearing from God for yourself, I'd love for you to join us in the Hearing God Challenge. The link is below.

This episode explores why Easter isn't just a single day of celebration, but a whole season—and ultimately a lifelong reality of joy. In a world where happiness is fleeting and often tied to circumstances, the message draws a clear distinction between temporary happiness and lasting joy, which comes only from the risen Christ. Through the witness of the disciples, Thomas, and the early Church, the episode shows how this joy endures even in suffering, fear, and uncertainty. It's not something we create, but a gift given through Jesus—His resurrection, His forgiveness, and His promises. Listeners are encouraged to stop chasing happiness in changing circumstances and instead receive and live in the unshakable joy found in Christ, a joy that no hardship can take away and that will last into eternity.

Willie Robertson's lifelong love of burning things is back on full display, and it all traces back to Phil's unique outlook on work and life. Al, Zach, Christian, and John Luke shift to the rise and fall of the Roman Empire and why Jesus entered history at just the right moment to challenge its power. The guys reframe Jesus' statement about the “gates of hell,” showing how God's kingdom advances rather than retreats, even in the face of intense persecution. Zach makes a confession that illustrates the envious side of human nature. In this episode: Matthew 16, verses 13–20; Matthew 11, verses 7–15; Hebrews 11, verses 13–16; James 3, verse 16 Today's conversation is about Lesson 6 of Ancient Christianity taught by visiting Hillsdale Professor of History Kenneth Calvert. Take the course with us at no cost to you! Sign up at http://unashamedforhillsdale.com/. More about Ancient Christianity: Christ entered the world during the reign of Caesar Augustus. The tensions between Christianity and the Roman Empire shaped the daily practice of the Christian faith and led many Romans to distrust and persecute the early Christians. But Christianity also benefitted from the Roman world. And when Rome collapsed in the West, Christianity provided the hope for preserving civilization. In this free, eleven-lecture course, Professor Kenneth Calvert will explore: How the Jewish, Greek, and Roman cultures all contributed to preparing the world to hear the Gospel. Why many Romans distrusted and persecuted the early Christians. The inspiring stories of Christ, His apostles, and faithful ones throughout the first four centuries of Christianity. The arguments of key early Christian apologists—Ignatius, Irenaeus, Justin, Athanasius, and more—who defended and defined the Christian faith amidst the animosity of the Roman world. The conversion of Constantine and how he brought stability to Rome, and how the rivalry between his sons almost returned Rome to paganism. How Augustine's writings helped preserve the message of Christianity during the collapse of the Roman Empire in the West. You will discover the uncertainties, trials, and triumphs of the earliest Christians as they confronted controversies within the faith and persecutions from outside it. Join us today to discover the improbable and miraculous story of Christianity. Sign up at ⁠http://unashamedforhillsdale.com/ Check out At Home with Phil Robertson, nearly 800 episodes of Phil's unfiltered wisdom, humor, and biblical truth, available for free for the first time! Get it on Apple, Spotify, Amazon, and anywhere you listen to podcasts! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/at-home-with-phil-robertson/id1835224621Listen to Not Yet Now with Zach Dasher on Apple, Spotify, iHeart, or anywhere you get podcasts. Chapters 00:00 Willie's Pyromania Revealed 04:45 Man vs. Yard: The Family Divide 08:40 The Satisfaction of Hard Work 12:15 Jesus Enters History at the Perfect Moment 22:15 Why Rome Feared & Persecuted Christians 27:50 Persecution Fueled Christianity's Growth 38:48 Rome's Decline & What It Says About Us Today 43:20 The Problem We All Struggle With — Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bishop Rowan Williams is the Former Archbishop of Canterbury. We discuss Christology, his book "Christ the Heart of Creation" and "Arius : Heresy and Tradition" and David Bentley Hart's book "The Light of Tabor : Towards a Monistic Christology".00:00:00 - Introduction00:01:20 - Christological Methodology00:04:30 - Kierkegaard and Perspectival Knowing00:08:25 - Protestantism and Tradition00:12:30 - Luther's Pizzaz 00:14:10 - Arius, Heresy, and Orthodoxy00:20:15 - The biography of the Word00:27:15 - Who was the Word before Jesus?00:33:45 - David Bentley Hart question00:44:45 - How is Jesus unique?00:53:20 - Miracles and the Incarnation01:00:30 - Concluding RemarksSam Tideman: Host of the Transfigured podcast and YouTube channel.Bishop Rowan Williams: Former Archbishop of Canterbury, theologian, and author of Christ the Heart of Creation and Arius: Heresy and Tradition.Primary Theologians and Philosophers DiscussedDavid Bentley Hart: Orthodox theologian and author of The Light of Tabor, with whom Williams engages in a friendly debate.Jordan Daniel Wood: Contemporary theologian and author of The Christological Cosmos.Arius: The 4th-century priest whose views on the nature of Christ led to the Council of Nicaea.Ludwig Wittgenstein: 20th-century philosopher known for his work on logic and the philosophy of language.Søren Kierkegaard: 19th-century Danish philosopher and father of existentialism.Rudolf Bultmann: (Transcribed as "Bulman") 20th-century German theologian and New Testament scholar.Martin Luther: Key figure in the Protestant Reformation.John Calvin: French theologian and major figure in the Protestant Reformation.Richard Hooker: Influential 16th-century Anglican theologian and author of Of the Lawes of Ecclesiastical Politie.St. Cyril of Alexandria: 5th-century Patriarch and key defender of Orthodoxy against Nestorianism.St. Athanasius of Alexandria: 4th-century defender of Nicene Orthodoxy against Arianism.Thomas Aquinas: Medieval scholastic theologian and philosopher.Sergei Bulgakov: Russian Orthodox theologian known for his "Sophiology."St. Augustine of Hippo: Highly influential Western Church Father.St. Irenaeus of Lyons: 2nd-century theologian and author of Against Heresies.Abbé Huvelin: 19th-century French spiritual director famous for his influence on Charles de Foucauld and Baron von Hügel.Other Figures MentionedRichard Dawkins: Famous evolutionary biologist and atheist author.Justin Brierley: Host of the Unbelievable? and The Big Conversation podcasts.St. Paul: Biblical Apostle.St. Peter: Biblical Apostle.Jonah: Biblical prophet (mentioned in the "Sign of Jonah").The Virgin Mary: Mother of Jesus.Jesus of Nazareth / Jesus Christ: The central figure of the discussion.

Patron and Mythic Mind contributor Jack Keoseyan recently wrote an article for our Substack titled, "Arda Healed, not Arda Unmarred," in which he discusses Tolkien's Athrabeth Finrod ah Andreth with reference to Athanasius, the great Church Father and defender of orthodox Trinitarianism in the fourth century A.D. In this article, Jack discusses the nature and destiny of humanity in Tolkien's legendarium and what that reveals about Tolkien's theology.In this episode, Jack reads his article for us.Read the article and subscribe to the Mythic mind Substack here: https://mythicmind.substack.com/p/arda-healed-not-arda-unmarredWatch the video of this episode here: https://youtu.be/WpT22QUsDwYBecome a patron of Mythic Mind at patreon.com/mythicmindListen to all THREE Mythic Mind podcasts:Mythic MindMythic Mind GamesMythic Mind Movies & Shows(or become a patron to get all three shows in one ad-free feedBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/mythic-mind--5808321/support.

This Easter episode celebrates the joy of the resurrection while asking a deeper question: how do we hold onto that joy when real life returns with its struggles, fears, and burdens? Drawing from Paul's call to “set your minds on things above,” the message acknowledges how easily we get pulled back into worry and sin—but reminds us that Christ continually lifts us up. Through the story of the women at the empty tomb and the ongoing life of the Church, the episode emphasizes that what we cannot do for ourselves, Jesus does for us—through His Word, His presence, and His gifts of forgiveness in worship. The risen Christ is not just for Easter Sunday, but for every day, bringing life, hope, and victory even in the midst of a broken world.

This episode reflects on the sweeping story of salvation told through the Old Testament and fulfilled in the resurrection of Christ. From creation to rebellion and death, it shows how sin turned life into decay—yet God never stopped working to restore and redeem what was lost. At the center is the dramatic reversal of Easter: the grave that once swallowed humanity is itself defeated when it cannot hold the sinless Son of God. In rising, Jesus breaks the power of death for all. The episode highlights baptism as our പങ്കാളിത്ത in that victory—dying and rising with Christ—and proclaims this night as the turning point where darkness is shattered, death is overcome, and life is given anew to all who are in Him.

John Luke, Christian, and Zach witness Al's unexpected confession about a “girly” habit that he swears by. John Luke offers his perspective on why God doesn't reveal Himself in obvious, overwhelming ways, and why Jesus followed that same pattern during His life on earth. The guys wrestle with modern skepticism, pointing out that many people reject God for not acting the way they expect. They dig into early church history, exposing how ancient false teachings about Jesus' humanity and divinity are still resurfacing today in new forms.  In this episode: 1 John 4, verses 1–3; 2 John, verse 7; 1 Corinthians 15, verses 1–8; John 1, verses 1–14; 1 Timothy 3, verse 16; 1 Corinthians 6, verse 19; Romans 5, verses 12–21 Today's conversation is about Lesson 5 of Ancient Christianity taught by visiting Hillsdale Professor of History Kenneth Calvert. Take the course with us at no cost to you! Sign up at http://unashamedforhillsdale.com/. More about Ancient Christianity: Christ entered the world during the reign of Caesar Augustus. The tensions between Christianity and the Roman Empire shaped the daily practice of the Christian faith and led many Romans to distrust and persecute the early Christians. But Christianity also benefitted from the Roman world. And when Rome collapsed in the West, Christianity provided the hope for preserving civilization. In this free, eleven-lecture course, Professor Kenneth Calvert will explore: How the Jewish, Greek, and Roman cultures all contributed to preparing the world to hear the Gospel. Why many Romans distrusted and persecuted the early Christians. The inspiring stories of Christ, His apostles, and faithful ones throughout the first four centuries of Christianity. The arguments of key early Christian apologists—Ignatius, Irenaeus, Justin, Athanasius, and more—who defended and defined the Christian faith amidst the animosity of the Roman world. The conversion of Constantine and how he brought stability to Rome, and how the rivalry between his sons almost returned Rome to paganism. How Augustine's writings helped preserve the message of Christianity during the collapse of the Roman Empire in the West. You will discover the uncertainties, trials, and triumphs of the earliest Christians as they confronted controversies within the faith and persecutions from outside it. Join us today to discover the improbable and miraculous story of Christianity. Sign up at ⁠http://unashamedforhillsdale.com/ Check out At Home with Phil Robertson, nearly 800 episodes of Phil's unfiltered wisdom, humor, and biblical truth, available for free for the first time! Get it on Apple, Spotify, Amazon, and anywhere you listen to podcasts! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/at-home-with-phil-robertson/id1835224621 Listen to Not Yet Now with Zach Dasher on Apple, Spotify, iHeart, or anywhere you get podcasts. Chapters 00:00 Al's Pedicure Confession 08:02 Why God Reveals Himself Quietly 19:18 The Ancient Heresy Still Haunting the Church 25:42 Jesus' Body Changes Everything 32:18 Creeds, Scripture, & What the Church Preserved 39:20 Apostles, Authority, and Testing the Spirits 45:42 The Ancient Errors Christians Repeat Today — Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode reflects on the question, “Is that a hill worth dying on?” by exploring how different figures in the Passion story answered it—Judas, Peter, Pilate, and the religious leaders—each with mixed motives and costly consequences. But at the center stands Jesus, who knowingly and willingly chose the cross. The message highlights the astonishing truth of the Gospel: Jesus declared that this hill—Golgotha—was worth dying on for sinners. His “yes” to suffering and sacrifice reveals a love beyond comprehension, securing forgiveness, life, and salvation. In response, listeners are invited to see themselves and others through that same lens of sacrificial love, transformed by Christ's decisive “yes” into people who live differently in a darkened world, anchored in His eternal light and victory.

This episode explores the profound connection between the Old Testament Passover and Jesus' Last Supper, revealing how Christ transforms the ancient meal into a new and greater deliverance. Just as Israel didn't merely remember the Exodus but participated in it, believers today are joined to Jesus' saving work through His body and blood. Framed as both an ending and a beginning, this “new Passover” centers on Jesus as the true Lamb whose blood brings forgiveness, freedom, and life—not just from earthly bondage, but from sin and death itself. The episode invites listeners to see the Lord's Supper as an ongoing participation in Christ's victory, a foretaste of eternal life, and a call to live in the freedom He has already won.

This meditation reflects on the paradox at the heart of Holy Week: is Jesus the one who tramples in judgment, or the one who is trampled in suffering? The answer is both. As a just God, He confronts sin and evil—but in His compassion, He takes that judgment upon Himself, becoming the one whose blood is poured out to save others. Focusing on the deeper meaning of our “enemies,” the message moves beyond external threats to the internal struggles—sin, temptation, and spiritual forces—that we cannot overcome on our own. In Christ's death and resurrection, these enemies are defeated. The episode invites listeners to repentance and trust, encouraging them to see Holy Week as the moment where Jesus is trampled for us, rises again, and ultimately conquers all that stands against us—bringing forgiveness, freedom, and peace.

Why read a bunch of facts about something in a textbook when you can get a first-hand account of what happened from someone who was there in the room where it happened?That's pretty much the concept of using the Great Books as the textbooks of choice in classical Christian education.At Veritas, a distinctive feature of secondary education is the Omnibus program, a comprehensive curriculum that combines literature, history, theology, civics, and philosophy. And, for the most part, students don't use textbooks for these classes. Rather, their textbooks are the "original sources;" that is, influential works written by authors and leaders of the time period.Our teachers and students have experienced first hand why this is the best way to appreciate and understand history...and why that appreciation and understanding is so crucial to a person's formation of faith and ideas.In this entertaining and eye-opening episode, three of our Omnibus teachers - Graham Dennis, Starling Reid, and Darin Beachy - talk with Mr. Fischer about their experience teaching history through the lens of the Great Books, how they inspire teenagers to wrestle with these difficult texts, and why the study of history alongside theology and philosophy is so vital to their development as citizens of our culture and disciples of Christ.What does that look like at Veritas?Well, instead of reading about the Peloponnesian War of the 4th century B.C., students read Thucydides' actual account and Aristophanes' plays. Rather than learn facts about Church history, they read Eusebius, Athanasius, and Dante's Divine Comedy. To grasp our country's founding principles, they read Locke, Rousseau, and Hobbes. Great works of 19th century literature is enjoyed and discussed in conjunction with understanding modern movements.Think teenagers couldn't possibly be ready to digest this type of weighty material? Think again. A classical Christian education calls them to higher things, and year after year, our students rise to the occasion and thrive because of it! Find out how in this episode.This season of Cultivate is sponsored by Hershey Financial Advisers, a wealth management firm located on North Pointe Blvd in Lancaster, leading people to make better financial decisions and empowering them to fulfill a vision beyond themselves.

This meditation reflects on the difficult but necessary role of the prophets, who were sent to call people to repentance—a message we often resist. Confronting sin can be painful, but like surgery, it is meant to heal, not harm. Through the example of Jeremiah and its fulfillment in Jesus, the message shows how God exposes sin in order to remove it, ultimately sending Christ as the true “Lamb led to the slaughter” to bear our guilt. The meditation emphasizes that repentance leads us to the cross, where forgiveness is won, and to a confident faith that trusts in God's promises. Even amid struggle, guilt, and opposition, believers can be certain that God is at work to save, restore, and vindicate them—turning repentance into joy through His steadfast love.

Christian sparks a little "beach envy" by checking in from Florida while John Luke is stuck with the oily pond next door, and the guys get a lighthearted update on life with newborn twins. Zach and Al help trace how Jesus entered a world driven by power, fear, and control. With Rome, religious leaders, and the crowd all fighting to protect their influence, the same forces driving their decisions still show up today, pointing to a bigger story where surrender—not control—defines true power. In this episode: Matthew 3, verses 13–17; Matthew 4; Mark 9; John 1, verse 29; Psalm 139; Psalm 51; Hosea 11, verse 1; John 11; Acts 6; John 18; 1 Corinthians 15 Today's conversation is about Lessons 4 of Ancient Christianity taught by visiting Hillsdale Professor of History Kenneth Calvert. Take the course with us at no cost to you! Sign up at http://unashamedforhillsdale.com/. More about Ancient Christianity: Christ entered the world during the reign of Caesar Augustus. The tensions between Christianity and the Roman Empire shaped the daily practice of the Christian faith and led many Romans to distrust and persecute the early Christians. But Christianity also benefitted from the Roman world. And when Rome collapsed in the West, Christianity provided the hope for preserving civilization. In this free, eleven-lecture course, Professor Kenneth Calvert will explore: How the Jewish, Greek, and Roman cultures all contributed to preparing the world to hear the Gospel. Why many Romans distrusted and persecuted the early Christians. The inspiring stories of Christ, His apostles, and faithful ones throughout the first four centuries of Christianity. The arguments of key early Christian apologists—Ignatius, Irenaeus, Justin, Athanasius, and more—who defended and defined the Christian faith amidst the animosity of the Roman world. The conversion of Constantine and how he brought stability to Rome, and how the rivalry between his sons almost returned Rome to paganism. How Augustine's writings helped preserve the message of Christianity during the collapse of the Roman Empire in the West. You will discover the uncertainties, trials, and triumphs of the earliest Christians as they confronted controversies within the faith and persecutions from outside it. Join us today to discover the improbable and miraculous story of Christianity. Sign up at ⁠http://unashamedforhillsdale.com/ Check out At Home with Phil Robertson, nearly 800 episodes of Phil's unfiltered wisdom, humor, and biblical truth, available for free for the first time! Get it on Apple, Spotify, Amazon, and anywhere you listen to podcasts! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/at-home-with-phil-robertson/id1835224621 Chapters00:00 Beach Envy04:55 Twin Update09:20 Why This Lecture Gets to the Heart of It All13:30 Why Jesus Didn't Fit Any Cultural Box19:00 The Magi, Provision & God's Bigger Plan29:30 Jesus as King vs. Rome's Authority35:00 Pilate, Politics & the Pressure to Crucify41:30 Surrender & Why It Still Changes Everything — Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Gregory of Nazianzus gives his 5 Orations on the Trinity. We mention Gregory of Nyssa, Athanasius of Alexandria, Hilary of Poitiers, Constantine the Great, Theodosius the Great, Eunomius, Arius, The Apostle Paul, John, James, Jude, Jesus Christ, The Doctrine of the Trinity, Arianism, Unitarianism, the Council of Constantinople, the Edict of Thessolinica, and more.

This episode explores the startling biblical phrase “O virgin Israel,” revealing the radical power of God's forgiveness. Though Israel was deeply unfaithful, God's mercy doesn't merely restore—it completely renews, making His people truly new, pure, and spotless in His sight. Through connections to Revelation, the Church as Christ's bride, and the restoration of Peter after his denial, the message highlights that repentance leads not just to pardon, but to total transformation. In Christ, the old is gone and a new life has begun. The episode invites listeners to see themselves through this promise: not defined by past sin, but remade—fully and freely—by the saving work of Jesus.

John Luke and Zach respond to sharp criticism, pushing back on a mindset that shuts down honest questions instead of engaging them. Al walks through the historical events that set the stage for Christianity's explosion onto the world scene, including Nero's brutal persecution of Jesus' followers. Meanwhile, Christian digs into the cultural significance of the gymnasium and how it revealed the tension between Greek and Jewish ways of life. Today's conversation is about Lessons 3 of Ancient Christianity taught by visiting Hillsdale Professor of History Kenneth Calvert. Take the course with us at no cost to you! Sign up at http://unashamedforhillsdale.com/. More about Ancient Christianity: Christ entered the world during the reign of Caesar Augustus. The tensions between Christianity and the Roman Empire shaped the daily practice of the Christian faith and led many Romans to distrust and persecute the early Christians. But Christianity also benefitted from the Roman world. And when Rome collapsed in the West, Christianity provided the hope for preserving civilization. In this free, eleven-lecture course, Professor Kenneth Calvert will explore: How the Jewish, Greek, and Roman cultures all contributed to preparing the world to hear the Gospel. Why many Romans distrusted and persecuted the early Christians. The inspiring stories of Christ, His apostles, and faithful ones throughout the first four centuries of Christianity. The arguments of key early Christian apologists—Ignatius, Irenaeus, Justin, Athanasius, and more—who defended and defined the Christian faith amidst the animosity of the Roman world. The conversion of Constantine and how he brought stability to Rome, and how the rivalry between his sons almost returned Rome to paganism. How Augustine's writings helped preserve the message of Christianity during the collapse of the Roman Empire in the West. You will discover the uncertainties, trials, and triumphs of the earliest Christians as they confronted controversies within the faith and persecutions from outside it. Join us today to discover the improbable and miraculous story of Christianity. Sign up at ⁠http://unashamedforhillsdale.com/ Check out At Home with Phil Robertson, nearly 800 episodes of Phil's unfiltered wisdom, humor, and biblical truth, available for free for the first time! Get it on Apple, Spotify, Amazon, and anywhere you listen to podcasts! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/at-home-with-phil-robertson/id1835224621 Listen to Not Yet Now with Zach Dasher on Apple, Spotify, iHeart, or anywhere you get podcasts. Chapters 00:00 John Luke & Respond to “Heretic” Accusations 05:45 Why Faith Should Welcome Hard Questions 11:20 Ancient History Points to Jesus 17:10 Greek Culture Invades the Jewish World 23:05 Israel's Repeated Failure Before Jesus 29:10 How Empires Prepared the World for Christ 36:40 Rome, Nero, & the Brutal Persecution of Christians 44:30 Why the Kingdom of God Outlasted Every Empire — Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode Richard debuts a "Fun with Numbers" segment with a rapid-fire March Madness breakdown (12-seeds win 35.6% of first-round matchups and hit in 85% of all tournaments, and that 11-seeds have won 51.8% of their games against 6-seeds since 2011) We read a heartfelt PDPB mailbag question from a couple writing in from the delivery room about LDS doctrine on IVF and embryos, with Gerrit walking through the Church handbook's guidance, the history of when Latter-day Saints have believed the spirit enters the body (including Brigham Young's view), and why the Church simply hasn't revealed a definitive answer.  They also respond to two Oklahoma missionaries serving in Salt Lake City West who push back on the classic anti-Mormon line "if you knew what I knew, you wouldn't believe", a claim Gerrit dismantles by pointing out that the people who know the most about Joseph Smith academically are overwhelmingly believers.  The episode wraps with the long-awaited return to the Book of Enoch series, as Gerrit walks through how Tertullian, Athanasius, and Augustine each wrestled with the "sons of God and daughters of men" passage in Genesis and teases that next episode will connect Joseph Smith's revelations on Enoch in the Pearl of Great Price back to everything they've been building toward, while Richard promises to have his malaria-in-Alexandria research narrowed down from somewhere between 1937 and 3200 BC. Please join us in our Standard of Truth Dead and in Hell March Madness Bracket Buster Challenge: Password: rice https://fantasy.espn.com/tc/sharer?challengeId=277&from=espn&context=GROUP_INVITE&edition=espn-en&groupId=1d5c280f-2dc4-4104-8176-cc1fa81237f6&joinKey=3767b450-8248-37f2-b8f2-84f7a5625440 Sign up for our free monthly email: ⁠ ⁠https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com⁠ If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: ⁠⁠questions@standardoftruthpodcast.com

Full Text of Readings Wednesday of the Fourth Week of Lent Lectionary: 246 The Saint of the day is Saint Cyril of Jerusalem Saint Cyril of Jerusalem's Story The crises that the Church faces today may seem minor when compared with the threat posed by the Arian heresy, which denied the divinity of Christ and almost overcame Christianity in the fourth century. Saint Cyril of Jerusalem was to be caught up in the controversy, accused of Arianism by Saint Jerome, and ultimately vindicated both by the men of his own time and by being declared a Doctor of the Church in 1822. Raised in Jerusalem and well-educated, especially in the Scriptures, he was ordained a priest by the bishop of Jerusalem and given the task during Lent of catechizing those preparing for Baptism and catechizing the newly baptized during the Easter season. His Catecheses remain valuable as examples of the ritual and theology of the Church in the mid-fourth century. There are conflicting reports about the circumstances of his becoming bishop of Jerusalem. It is certain that he was validly consecrated by bishops of the province. Since one of them was an Arian, Acacius, it may have been expected that his “cooperation” would follow. Conflict soon rose between Saint Cyril of Jerusalem and Acacius, bishop of the rival nearby see of Caesarea. Saint Cyril of Jerusalem was summoned to a council, accused of insubordination and of selling Church property to relieve the poor. Probably, however, a theological difference was also involved. He was condemned, driven from Jerusalem, and later vindicated, not without some association with and help from Semi-Arians. Half his episcopate was spent in exile; his first experience was repeated twice. He finally returned to find Jerusalem torn with heresy, schism and strife, and wracked with crime. Even Saint Gregory of Nyssa, who was sent to help, left in despair. They both went to the Council of Constantinople, where the amended form of the Nicene Creed was promulgated in 381. Saint Cyril of Jerusalem accepted the word consubstantial—that is, Christ is of the same substance or nature as the Father. Some said it was an act of repentance, but the bishops of the Council praised him as a champion of orthodoxy against the Arians. Though not friendly with the greatest defender of orthodoxy against the Arians, Saint Cyril of Jerusalem may be counted among those whom Athanasius called “brothers, who mean what we mean, and differ only about the word consubstantial.” Reflection Those who imagine that the lives of saints are simple and placid, untouched by the vulgar breath of controversy, are rudely shocked by history. Yet, it should be no surprise that saints, indeed all Christians, will experience the same difficulties as their Master. The definition of truth is an endless, complex pursuit, and good men and women have suffered the pain of both controversy and error. Intellectual, emotional, and political roadblocks may slow up people like Cyril for a time. But their lives taken as a whole are monuments to honesty and courage.Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media

John Luke celebrates the arrival of his twin daughters, instantly becoming a father of five and giving the guys plenty to talk about when it comes to the miracle and chaos of childbirth. John Luke, Christian, Zach, and Al swap stories about witnessing labor for the first time and reflect on how the arrival of new life can feel both overwhelming and deeply spiritual. That leads into a bigger discussion about why Christianity makes such a bold claim: that the Creator of the universe chose to enter the world the same way every human does, through birth. The guys connect that moment to how the humble birth of Jesus reshaped human history and still anchors the story we're all living in today. In this episode: John 1, verses 1–4; John 1, verse 14; Genesis 1, verse 1; Genesis 3, verse 15; Acts 17, verses 22–31 Today's conversation is about Lesson 1 of Ancient Christianity taught by visiting Hillsdale Professor of History Kenneth Calvert. Take the course with us at no cost to you! Sign up at http://unashamedforhillsdale.com/. More about Ancient Christianity: Christ entered the world during the reign of Caesar Augustus. The tensions between Christianity and the Roman Empire shaped the daily practice of the Christian faith and led many Romans to distrust and persecute the early Christians. But Christianity also benefitted from the Roman world. And when Rome collapsed in the West, Christianity provided the hope for preserving civilization. In this free, eleven-lecture course, Professor Kenneth Calvert will explore: How the Jewish, Greek, and Roman cultures all contributed to preparing the world to hear the Gospel. Why many Romans distrusted and persecuted the early Christians. The inspiring stories of Christ, His apostles, and faithful ones throughout the first four centuries of Christianity. The arguments of key early Christian apologists—Ignatius, Irenaeus, Justin, Athanasius, and more—who defended and defined the Christian faith amidst the animosity of the Roman world. The conversion of Constantine and how he brought stability to Rome, and how the rivalry between his sons almost returned Rome to paganism. How Augustine's writings helped preserve the message of Christianity during the collapse of the Roman Empire in the West. You will discover the uncertainties, trials, and triumphs of the earliest Christians as they confronted controversies within the faith and persecutions from outside it. Join us today to discover the improbable and miraculous story of Christianity. Sign up at ⁠http://unashamedforhillsdale.com/ Check out At Home with Phil Robertson, nearly 800 episodes of Phil's unfiltered wisdom, humor, and biblical truth, available for free for the first time! Get it on Apple, Spotify, Amazon, and anywhere you listen to podcasts! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/at-home-with-phil-robertson/id1835224621 Listen to Not Yet Now with Zach Dasher on Apple, Spotify, iHeart, or anywhere you get podcasts. Chapters 00:00 The Most Prolific Man at the Table 03:00 The Wild & Spiritual Reality of Childbirth 07:20 Why Christianity Includes God Becoming a Baby 12:00 Jesus Connects a Distant & Personal God 18:00 Greek Philosophy & the Search for the Creator 25:30 Paul Challenges the Philosophers in Athens 33:30 Why Christianity Spread Across the Roman Empire 41:30 Caesar Augustus vs. Jesus: The Real “Son of God” — Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link!If you could summarize the end times in three words, here's our pick: Restrain. Release. Return. We open Scripture with the Fathers and track Revelation 20 as a map of history—Satan bound so the nations can be evangelized, the saints reigning as the apostolic Church governs, and a brief release that surrounds the camp of the saints before the Lord returns. That lens turns the chaos of our moment into something legible. The fall of paganism once silenced oracles and broke magic; the reverse image explains why occultism resurges, sanctuaries close, and temporal power shrugs at anything higher than itself.We connect the dragon's binding with Jesus' “strong man” parable and Paul's “restrainer” in 2 Thessalonians 2—what the Fathers often saw, in part, as the Roman order transfigured by the Gospel, a Christendom that held the line until it didn't. From there we take up the hard anchors: the Fathers are unanimous that Antichrist will halt public sacrifice, that he will be received by the Jews as a false messiah, and that the Jews will later convert. On the Temple, the tradition isn't unanimous—some read “temple of God” as the Church itself, others expect a rebuilt sanctuary—but either path exposes the same deception. Along the way we revisit Athanasius on the oracles going mute, Augustine and Bede on Ticonius's anti-church growing inside the Church, and why an apostate civilization can be worse than a pagan one.Then the lines get bolder through live caller questions: Is COVID's global suspension of public worship a rehearsal for the prophesied ban? How should we weigh claims about Trump, a rebuilt Temple, or a “great monarch”? What's the right way to compare the TLM and the Novus Ordo without dodging reverence? Where does patriotism fit when you feel no pride? And how do men carry real ambition without pride—working hard, staying ready, and letting God choose the moment?If you're hungry for clarity without hype, this conversation gives you a sturdy frame, a reading list to get started with the Fathers, and practical steps for holiness in confusing times. Subscribe, share this with a friend who's asking the same questions, and leave a review to help more listeners find the show.Support the showNeed seafood for Lent? Check out https://shoplobster.com/ and use code AB10 to get 10% from Maine's ONLY Catholic lobster company.Check out our new sponsor, Nic Nac, at www.nicnac.com and use code "AB25%" for 25% off of your first order!********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comMerchandise: https://avoiding-babylon-shop.fourthwall.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comFull Premium/Locals Shows on Audio Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1987412/subscribeRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rss