Podcasts about Irenaeus

In this conversation, Dr. Will Varner discusses his extensive research on the Gospels, particularly focusing on the authorship of the Gospels and the his belief that Matthew was written first (Matthew Priority rather than Markan Priority) and then Luke, and finally Mark. He explores the historical context of Gospel writing, the influence of higher criticism on the New Testament, and the significance of early church fathers like Papias and Irenaeus. Varner argues for a reevaluation of the traditional views on Gospel authorship, emphasizing the Jewish context of Matthew and the implications of these findings for contemporary biblical scholarship and bible study as well as exegesis and hermeneutics. In this conversation, Dr. William Varner and Dr. Paul Weaver delve into the complexities of the Gospels, particularly focusing on the relationship between Matthew and Mark. They discuss the implications of the unique details found in Mark's Gospel. The conversation also touches on the role of the Holy Spirit in guiding the authors, the debate between Matthew Priority and Mark Priority, and the influence of modern scholarship on these views. Varner recommends several resources for those interested in exploring Matthew Priority further, emphasizing the importance of understanding the Gospels in their historical and theological context.0:00 Introduction02:21 - Dr. Varner's Journey and Insights on the Gospels07:15 - Debating Markan vs. Matthean Priority12:31 - The Role of Early Church Fathers in Establishing Priority19:00 - Understanding Papias and the "Hebrew Dialect" 24:52 - The Synoptic Problem and Mutual Dependence31:03 - Exploring the Influence of Academia on Gospel Studies38:07 - Recommended Resources for Further Study

In the final episode of the series on heaven, Greg and Cory explore the eschaton—the ultimate end of God's plan, where Christ returns to renew creation as the New Heaven and New Earth. They unpack the biblical parallelism between Genesis 1-2 and Revelation 21-22, where God restores communion between Himself, humanity, and creation, fulfilling our deepest longings for belonging. Drawing from Scripture, the Catechism, and saints like Irenaeus and Teresa of Avila, they emphasize that our destiny isn't a disembodied heaven but a redeemed creation where we live bodily with God forever. The sacraments, especially the Eucharist, offer a foretaste of this reality, making Catholicism's physicality a compelling draw. Greg also references a prior standalone episode, Will We See Our Dogs in Heaven? (#319), for those curious about pets in the afterlife. Join them for a profound, hopeful vision of eternity that transcends clichés and anchors our faith in God's redemptive love. Support this ministry so more people can consider Catholicism! Website: https://www.consideringcatholicism.com/ Email: consideringcatholicism@gmail.com

NOTHING STARTS Christians arguing faster than asking about the timing of the Rapture.Alan DiDio, author of the compelling new book They Lied to You About the Rapture, explains that while he (and we) believe in a pre-tribulation Rapture, we are often just as guilty of spreading misconceptions about this event as those with other views.Alan explains how we know the doctrine of the pre-trib rapture did not begin with John Darby—mainly because there are numerous writings from Christian theologians prior to Darby, going back to Irenaeus of Lyon in the 2nd century AD, who expressed this view.For a special offer on They Lied to You About the Rapture, visit the SkyWatch TV store: https://bit.ly/swtv-didio

In this episode of FACTS, we trace the powerful story of Pentecost—from its Old Testament roots as the Feast of Weeks to its climactic fulfillment in Acts 2 with the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. We'll explore how Pentecost marks the birth of the Church, the reversal of Babel, and the commissioning of the apostles. Finally, we examine how the early church fathers understood and celebrated this feast, with insights from Irenaeus, Cyril of Jerusalem, and Cyril of Alexandria. This is more than history—it's the story of the Spirit at work in the Church then and now.If you'd like to donate to our ministry or be a monthly partner that receives newsletters and one on one discussions with Dr. Boyce, here's a link: https://give.tithe.ly/?formId=6381a2ee-b82f-42a7-809e-6b733cec05a7 #Pentecost #Acts2 #HolySpirit #EarlyChurch #ChurchFathers #Patristics #FeastOfWeeks #ChristianHistory #BiblicalTheology #FACTSPodcast #Origen #Irenaeus #Tertullian #CyrilOfJerusalem #Augustine #ChristianFeasts #ChurchUnity #SpiritAndMission

Psalm 104Reading 1: Romans 8Reading 2: From the treatise Against Heresies by St. Irenaeus, bishopSt. Helena Ministries is a registered 501(c)3 non-profit. Your donations are 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

What can the Early Church Fathers teach us about our inner worlds, the complexity of our psyches?  Actually, very much, if we are willing to listen.  Join Dr. Gerry Crete, Dr. Christian Amalu and me for a highlight tour of what these Early Church Fathers offer us in understanding and loving ourselves, God, and others:  St. Ignatius of Antioch, St. Irenaeus, St. Cyril of Alexandria, St. Gregory of Nyssa, and St. John of Damascus.  We particularly focused in on St. Evagrius discussing the “Christ-self” and the “legion of other selves” within each person. We explore how the Early Church Fathers bring in allegory, metaphor, symbol, and typology to capture more readily the richness, variety, complexity, and beauty of the inner life than we moderns generally do.  Dr. Gerry closes with a brief prayer reflection.   For the full video experience with visuals, graphics, and for discussion in the comments section, check us out on our YouTube channel here:  www.youtube.com/@InteriorIntegration4Catholics

Series: Signs & GloryTitle: “Would Jesus Cancel Me?"Subtitle: Scripture: John 7:53-8:11John 3:16-18; Matt 7:3-5Bottom line: Jesus meets us in our guilt not to condemn us, but to restore us to a new way of life.INTRODUCTIONCONTEXTSERMON OUTLINECONCLUSIONNOTESOUTLINESQUESTIONS TO CONSIDER DISCUSSION QUESTIONSMAIN REFERENCES USEDOpening prayer: Lord God, help us grow to be and do like Jesus, while abiding in him and leading others to do the same. INTRODUCTION"Cancel culture is a modern social phenomenon where individuals, organizations, or public figures are called out, boycotted, or publicly shamed—often on social media—for actions, statements, or behaviors that are considered offensive, harmful, or morally wrong.Here's a clear definition:Cancel culture refers to the practice of withdrawing support from someone—often publicly and collectively—due to something they've said or done that is viewed as objectionable or offensive, often without a process of forgiveness, dialogue, or restoration."-ChatGPT"(JK Rowling, author of Harry Potter) is a notable example of cancel culture targeting an individual recently:J.K. Rowling (Ongoing, Intensified 2020–2023)
, the author of the Harry Potter series, has faced sustained backlash for her comments on transgender issues, particularly since 2020. Her tweets and essays expressing concerns about the implications of transgender rights on women's spaces were labeled transphobic by critics, leading to widespread calls for boycotts of her books, films, and related media. Fans and organizations publicly distanced themselves, and some Harry Potter actors, like Daniel Radcliffe, openly opposed her views..." -Grok AIBlack Dot Analogy"The black dot analogy is a powerful metaphor often used to illustrate how people tend to focus on negative aspects or flaws—represented by a small black dot—while overlooking the broader, positive context--symbolized by a large white space surrounding it. It's frequently applied in discussions about judgment, perspective, and human behavior, particularly in the context of not judging others based on their worst moments or traits. Origins and Core ConceptThe black dot analogy often appears in motivational, psychological, and educational contexts. One common version...involves a classroom exercise where a professor presents students with a blank sheet of paper featuring a single black dot in the center. Students are asked to write about what they see, and invariably, they focus on the dot, ignoring the vast white space around it. The professor then explains that this mirrors how people fixate on small negatives in life—such as health issues, financial struggles, or personal failures—while neglecting the abundance of positive aspects, like relationships, opportunities, or blessings." -Grok AIThe Security Camera Moment"Imagine a moment you wouldn't want anyone to see—maybe you lost your temper, told a lie, or clicked on something you knew you shouldn't have. Now imagine that moment being played on a giant screen in the middle of your church, with everyone watching.That's what the woman caught in adultery was living. Her worst moment was dragged into the light, not in private, but publicly—before religious leaders, before a crowd, and before Jesus. But instead of condemnation, she encountered something completely unexpected: mercy." -Grok AI For our purposes today, cancel = condemn. When Jesus meets us in our guilt, he doesn't cancel or condemn us; he restores us to a new way to live.OUTLINE (input from ChatGPT)Bottom line: Jesus meets us in our guilt not to condemn us, but to restore us to a new way of life.Transition:If you look at John 8:1-11 in your bible, you may notice that it is in brackets, italics, or footnoted. In my bible, it's all in italics. I have wrestled all week with whether to preach this passage today or not. The reason is that this portion of John (8:1-11) is not in the earliest manuscripts. (that we have so far) It is in many manuscripts, however, it's not in the same place in those manuscripts. It's found in different places throughout the book of John. It's sometimes found in Luke as well. From this I draw 3 conclusions:It's probably not in the original book of John, meaning that I cannot consider it scripture for certain. Many of my commentaries just skip this passage with no comment. Others address it even though they do not see it as scripture. Other commentaries see value in it and address leaving this decision up to the reader. It very well could be a true event in the life of Jesus. I think this is a true account and that some who copied this down felt it was worthy of scripture. And maybe it is. But it doesn't meet the standard of what qualifies as scripture and not just history. (Add qualification of NT scripture here)It's worth our time to preach/teach it because it includes biblical principles and applications relevant to us and aligns with the rest of scripture. In other words, it's not going to take us somewhere we wouldn't otherwise go. The Bible Knowledge Commentary states, "It is probably a part of true oral tradition which was added to later Greek manuscripts by copyists." Blum, E. A. (1985). John. In J. F. Walvoord & R. B. Zuck (Eds.), The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures (Vol. 2, p. 303). Victor Books.1. The Setup: Grace Confronts a Trap (vv. 1–6a)The scribes and Pharisees bring a woman caught in adultery—not out of love for the law, but to trap Jesus.The law said such a sin was punishable by death (Lev. 20:10; Deut. 22:22), but this was clearly a setup:Where is the man?Why is this happening publicly in the temple?They use the woman's shame as a tool to undermine Jesus.Application: People still weaponize sin and shame to feel superior or to discredit others. But Jesus won't participate in that game.2. The Silence: Grace Slows the Fury (vv. 6b–8)Jesus bends down and writes on the ground. It's an intentional pause.It shifts attention away from the woman, lowers the emotional temperature, and gives space for reflection.His challenge—“Let him who is without sin cast the first stone”—puts judgment back where it belongs: in the hands of the truly holy.Matthew 7:3–5 (NIV)“Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,' when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye.”Application: Jesus slows the mob mentality. When we want to throw stones (even mental ones), Jesus reminds us to examine ourselves first.3. The Departure: Grace Exposes Everyone (vv. 9)One by one, they drop their stones and leave—starting with the oldest, perhaps because they had lived long enough to know their sin more clearly.Jesus' words don't just defend the woman—they shine a light on everyone present.Application: In the presence of Jesus, no one gets to act like they're righteous on their own.4. The Restoration: Grace Speaks a Better Word (vv. 10–11)“Where are they? Has no one condemned you?” “No one, Lord.”“Neither do I condemn you. Go, and from now on sin no more.”He doesn't ignore her sin—He lifts her from it. Grace first, then transformation.Application: Jesus is not soft on sin—He's strong on mercy. Grace doesn't excuse sin; it empowers change.Pastoral Notes/transition:This woman doesn't ask for forgiveness—Jesus simply gives it.The grace of Jesus doesn't depend on the eloquence of our repentance but on the fullness of His mercy.CONCLUSION "(Jesus) doesn't give her a license to keep sinning. He gives her a reason to stop." -M Carter"Is Jesus reversing the Mosaic system? No. He is placing His cross between that woman and her sin." -J. Vernon McGeeApplications:Jesus came to show us the way out from under our condemnation to mercy. Let God forgive you--and you yourself.Jesus is not soft on sin—He's strong on mercy. Let God find us quick to forgive instead of condemn or cancel.Grace doesn't excuse sin; it empowers change. Let God find us moving towards holy, pure living instead of compromised living.The Torn Report CardA student hides his report card from his parents—he's failed multiple classes and is ashamed. When the truth finally comes out, he expects anger, punishment, maybe rejection. But instead, his father gently says, “This doesn't change that you're my son. We're going to face this together. But we are going to face it.”That's the heart of Jesus in this story. He doesn't pretend our sin doesn't matter—but He makes sure we know: we don't face it alone, and we don't face it condemned.The Courtroom SurpriseImagine standing in court, guilty, and the judge reads the list of charges. The evidence is overwhelming. Then the judge steps down from the bench, walks toward you, and says, “I'll take your sentence.”That's what Jesus did—not just for the woman, but for each of us. He didn't just defend her; He bore her shame. He doesn't say, “You're not guilty.” He says, “I'll take the guilt.”Bottom line: Jesus meets us in our guilt not to condemn us, but to restore us to a new way of life.INVITATIONThe Dropped StonesPicture the sound that must've filled the temple courtyard that day—not just silence, but the clink and thud of stones hitting the ground one by one. That was the sound of people walking away from condemnation.And maybe today, that sound is what needs to happen in your own heart—not just dropping the stones you've been ready to throw at others, but dropping the ones you've been throwing at yourself.What about you?Peter puts it all in perspective in his first sermon:““Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah.” When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.”” ‭‭Acts‬ ‭2‬:‭36‬-‭39‬ ‭NIV‬‬How do we respond? Answer 2 questions:Take out a card or piece of paper right now. Write down the answer to these questions: What is God saying to me right now?What am I going to do about it? Write this down on a sheet of paper. What I hear you saying, Lord, is ___________________.[my name] is going to believe/do __________________________________________________ as a result.Finally, share this with your Home or Mission group this week when you gather as a testimony about what God is doing in your life. You don't have to get too specific to give him praise.Lord's Supper, 1 Cor 11:23-26 is good passage.Also, say something like, "Christ has died, Christ is risen, Christ will come again." (past, present, and future)PrayNOTES"She's been disgraced. Then Jesus covers her disgrace with his grace. He levels the playing field by quietly, making each man admit his own sin, and then instead of condemning her, he forgives her. Not only does he forgive her, but he also transforms her future. He doesn't give her a license to keep sinning. He gives her a reason to stop." -M Carter"Is Jesus reversing the Mosaic system? No. He is placing His cross between that woman and her sin. This One who is the Son of the virgin, who Himself was under a cloud all of His life, is going to the cross to pay the penalty for even the sin of this woman. He did not come into the world to condemn the wold. (John 3:17) He did not come to judge this woman. He came into the world to be a Savior!" -J. Vernon McGee"We must not misinterpret this event to mean that Jesus was 'easy on sin' or that he contradicted the law. For Jesus to forgive this woman meant that he had to one day die for her sins. Forgiveness is free, but it is not cheap. Furthermore, Jesus perfectly fulfilled the law so that no one could just accuse him of opposing his teachings or weakening its power by applying the law to the woman, and not to themselves. The Jewish leaders were violating both the letter and the spirit of the law--and they thought they were defending Moses!The law was given to reveal sin (Romans 3:20), and we must be condemned by the law before we can be cleansed by God's grace. Law and grace do not compete with each other; they complement each other. Nobody was ever saved by keeping the law, but nobody was ever saved by grace, who was not first convicted by the law. There must be conviction before they can be conversion.Nor is Christ's gracious forgiveness an excuse to sin. "Go, and sin, no more!" was our Lord's counsel... Certainly the experience of gracious forgiveness would motivate the penitent sinner to live a holy and obedient life to the glory of God." -W WiersbeBlack Dot Analogy"The black dot analogy is a powerful metaphor often used to illustrate how people tend to focus on negative aspects or flaws—represented by a small black dot—while overlooking the broader, positive context, symbolized by a large white space surrounding it. It's frequently applied in discussions about judgment, perspective, and human behavior, particularly in the context of not judging others based on their worst moments or traits. Below, I'll explore the analogy's origins, its applications, and its relevance to your original query about a post on X regarding not judging people by their worst moments.Origins and Core ConceptThe black dot analogy often appears in motivational, psychological, and educational contexts. One common version, as described in sources like the Rotary e-Club of Houston and Medium, involves a classroom exercise where a professor presents students with a blank sheet of paper featuring a single black dot in the center. Students are asked to write about what they see, and invariably, they focus on the dot, ignoring the vast white space around it. The professor then explains that this mirrors how people fixate on small negatives in life—such as health issues, financial struggles, or personal failures—while neglecting the abundance of positive aspects, like relationships, opportunities, or blessings." -Grok AINT Canon - who decided what books?The process of recognizing the New Testament canon unfolded gradually over several centuries. Here's a brief timeline of how and when this happened:1st Century (c. 45–100 AD)The New Testament books were being written (e.g., Paul's letters, the Gospels, Acts, Revelation).Some letters were already being shared and read in various churches (e.g., see 2 Peter 3:15–16, where Paul's letters are referred to as Scripture).2nd Century (100–200 AD)Many churches were using core texts like the four Gospels, Acts, and Paul's letters.Early church leaders (like Irenaeus, c. 180 AD) affirmed the authority of these writings.Heretical movements (e.g., Marcionism, which rejected the Old Testament and some NT books) forced the church to clarify which writings were truly apostolic and orthodox.3rd Century (200–300 AD)More consensus was forming, especially around most of the current New Testament books.Disputed books included Hebrews, James, 2 Peter, 2–3 John, Jude, and Revelation.Church fathers like Origen and Cyprian used most of the New Testament books but noted which were disputed.4th Century (300–400 AD)Athanasius' Easter Letter (367 AD): This was the first known list to include exactly the 27 books of the New Testament as we have today.Councils of Hippo (393 AD) and Carthage (397 AD): These regional church councils affirmed the same list.While these councils didn't “create” the canon, they recognized and confirmed what many churches were already using.By the 5th CenturyThe 27-book New Testament was widely accepted across the Christian world.The canon was functionally closed, and later councils reaffirmed the same set of writings.So, while the New Testament canon wasn't decided at one single moment, by the end of the 4th century, the list of 27 books was largely settled and universally recognized in the church. -ChatGPTFrom me to ChatGPT: Would you say then that they were decided using an “open source” or “wiki” method?That's a great analogy—and yes, to an extent, the formation of the New Testament canon functioned somewhat like an “open source” or “wiki” process, though with important differences.Here's how the comparison fits:✅ Collaborative Process (like open source/wiki)The canon wasn't determined by a single person or moment.Churches across different regions contributed to the process by using, preserving, copying, and teaching from certain texts.Early church leaders and communities evaluated writings based on shared criteria, and over time a consensus emerged.✅ Organic DevelopmentBooks were recognized as authoritative because they were already functioning as such in Christian worship and teaching—not simply declared authoritative from above.The canon grew from usage and recognition rather than being imposed arbitrarily.Books were recognized as authoritative because they were already functioning as such in Christian worship and teaching—not simply declared authoritative from above.The canon grew from usage and recognition rather than being imposed arbitrarily.✅ Community DiscernmentJust like open-source projects evolve through community review and refinement, the canon evolved through careful theological reflection, discussion, and testing against apostolic truth. -ChatGPTBut here's where the analogy has limits:❌ Not Unlimited or Constantly EditableUnlike a true wiki, the canon wasn't meant to be open-ended or perpetually editable. Once consensus was reached, it was closed and considered authoritative and complete.The church believed that God's revelation in Christ—and through the apostles—was once for all (cf. Jude 1:3), not ongoing in the way an open-source codebase might be.❌ Guided by Theology, Not Just ConsensusTheological and spiritual discernment—especially about apostolicity and inspiration—played a key role. It wasn't just a democratic vote or popularity contest. -ChatGPTSummary:"Yes, the canonization process had a lot in common with an “open source” or “wiki-style” model—distributed, collaborative, community-tested—but it was also guided by deep convictions about divine revelation and was ultimately closed to preserve the apostolic foundation of the faith.The Councils of Hippo (393) and Carthage (397) were the most decisive early church gatherings to affirm the full 27-book New Testament canon. They didn't invent the canon but codified what had already become widespread consensus in the life of the church." -ChatGPTOUTLINESee aboveQUESTIONS TO CONSIDERWhat do I want them to know? Why do I want them to know it?What do I want them to do?Why do I want them to do it?How do they do this?DISCUSSION QUESTIONSDiscovery Bible Study process: https://www.dbsguide.org/Read the passage together.Retell the story in your own words.Discovery the storyWhat does this story tell me about God?What does this story tell me about people?If this is really true, what should I do?What is God saying to you right now? (Write this down)What are you going to do about it? (Write this down)Who am I going to tell about this?Find our sermons, podcasts, discussion questions and notes at https://www.gracetoday.net/podcastAlternate Discussion Questions (by Jeff Vanderstelt): Based on this passage:Who is God?What has he done/is he doing/is he going to do?Who am I? (In light of 1 & 2)What do I do? (In light of who I am)How do I do it?Final Questions (Write this down)What is God saying to you right now? What are you going to do about it?MAIN REFERENCES USED“John,” by R. Kent Hughes, Preaching the Word Commentary, Edited by Kent HughesExalting Jesus in John, by Matt Carter & Josh WredbergThe Gospels & Epistles of John, FF BruceJohn, RC SproulJohn, KöstenbergerThe Gospel According to John, DA CarsonThe Light Has Come, Leslie Newbigin (TLHC)The Visual Word, Patrick Schreiner (TVW)“Look at the Book” by John Piper (LATB)“The Bible Knowledge Commentary” by Walvoord, Zuck (BKC)“The Bible Exposition Commentary” by Warren Wiersbe (BEC)Thru The Bible with J. Vernon McGee (TTB)Outline Bible, D Willmington (OB)NIV Study Bible (NIVSB) https://www.biblica.com/resources/scholar-notes/niv-study-bible/Chronological Life Application Study Bible (NLT)ESV Study Bible (ESVSB) https://www.esv.orgThe Bible Project https://bibleproject.comNicky Gumbel bible reading plan app or via YouVersionClaude.aiChatGPT AIGrok AIPerplexity AIGoogle Gemini AI

Many Protestants argue the pope was never meant to lead the Church long-term. We examine biblical and historical evidence for the papacy, Peter's unique role, and how the Church has understood this office from the beginning. Join The CA Live Club Newsletter: Click Here Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 0:03:00 – Is the papacy unbiblical or a temporary office?0:07:30 – Does the Bible ever say Peter went to Rome?0:11:30 – How does 1 Peter 5:13 support Peter's presence in Rome?0:14:30 – Did Peter and Paul really found the church in Rome together?0:16:30 – Does Paul rebuking Peter disprove papal authority?0:19:30 – Can a pope be fallible or rebuked for his actions?0:23:00 – Is the real Protestant objection that we don’t need structure, sacraments, or hierarchy?0:25:30 – What does the temple veil really mean for Christian worship?0:29:00 – If Jesus is the only mediator, why do we have priests or popes?0:32:30 – Does the Eucharist show that Christian priesthood is still valid?0:36:00 – What's the real difference between Catholicism and Orthodoxy on the papacy?0:39:30 – Is the Pope really just “first among equals”?0:42:00 – What does Irenaeus say about Rome's authority and apostolic succession?0:45:00 – Did Pope John Paul II suggest the papacy could look different in the future?0:47:30 – Is the complexity of the modern papacy a sign of corruption or growth?0:50:00 – Does celibacy contradict Peter's example?0:53:00 – Was Peter actually married during his apostleship?0:55:00 – Is the Pope the Antichrist and the Church the Whore of Babylon?

On todays SPECIAL podcast Texas Jim and The Gang talk about delved into the early Christian writings of Irenaeus and his comprehensive refutation of Gnosticism, particularly Valentinianism. Irenaeus emphasized the importance of the Eucharist as a physical manifestation of Christ's flesh and blood, countering Gnostic beliefs that dismissed the physical aspect of Christ's sacrifice. The conversation highlighted the role of the Eucharist in early Christian communities, its significance in combating docetic views, and its centrality in the gospel narrative. The Gang also explored the historical context of Gnostic teachings and their impact on early Christian theology. The discussion centered on the literal interpretation of the Eucharist and its historical context. Texas Jim argued that using literal language is necessary for an illiterate audience, referencing historical figures like Irenaeus and Justin Martyr. Sarah highlighted the connection between Eucharistic language and Old Testament sacrifices, emphasizing the need to avoid reducing it to mere symbolism. The conversation also explored the implications of Jesus' words in John 6, suggesting they were meant for a broader audience beyond his disciples. The Gang concluded that the Eucharist's literal language serves to combat Gnosticism and emphasize the importance of community and sacrifice. Don't Miss It!

Psalm 89Psalm 90Reading 1: Revelation 9Reading 2: From the treatise Against Heresies by St. Irenaeus, bishopSupport 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

The word for today is: Pruning. In today's episode, John Ortberg invites us into a deep and honest reflection on what it means to live with an untroubled heart—even in a troubled world. Joined by Susie Lipps, he explores Jesus' words from John 15: “I am the true vine… and my Father is the gardener.” Together, they unpack the spiritual practice and painful beauty of pruning—how God lovingly cuts away what is unnecessary so we can bear real, lasting fruit. With wisdom from C.S. Lewis, Dale Bruner, and ancient voices like Irenaeus, this teaching reframes hardship, loss, and frustration as invitations to deeper growth. Whether it's traffic delays or soul-level disappointment, this episode will help you see where God may be shaping you through it all.Join the conversation in our FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1CnqywVp9s/Become New is here to help you grow spiritually one day at a time.John's new book STEPS is out! Check it out here: https://becomenew.com/steps/Want to work the steps with a friend or small group? Visit: DoTheSteps.com

In this Easter special, we explore the profound teachings about the Savior's suffering in Gethsemane and its eternal implications. We discuss how early Latter-day Saints grappled with the concepts of repentance, eternal punishment, and the infinite nature of Christ's atonement. We also explore the radical truths in D&C 19 that challenge the prevailing 19th-century Protestant beliefs by emphasizing a Savior who deeply desires us to avoid suffering through sincere repentance. Gerrit also draws on connections between biblical texts and early Christian writings, including Justin Martyr, Irenaeus, and Hippolytus. Most importantly, this episode underscores the Savior's desperate plea for repentance, not out of wrath, but from a profound desire to spare His children from unimaginable suffering. This message of compassion and redemption is especially powerful during the Easter season, and a reminder of the incredible depth of Christ's love and the hopeful promise of forgiveness and spiritual renewal.    Sweetwater Rescue Temple Project: Helping the Saints of Lithuania get to the Helsinki, Finland Temple https://www.sweetwaterrescue.org/current If you would like to donate, please click on the link: https://www.sweetwaterrescue.org/donate   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

4-19-25: Saint Irenaeus by

What happens when we examine the foundational Protestant doctrine of Sola Scriptura through an Orthodox Christian lens? This thought-provoking seminar challenges the notion that Scripture alone is the final authority for Christians by examining biblical, historical, and theological evidence to the contrary.Ben (Luigi), a former Protestant pastor's son who later embraced Reformed theology before finding his home in Orthodox Christianity, brings both personal experience and scholarly depth to this complex subject. With remarkable clarity, Luigi demonstrates how Scripture itself affirms the authority of oral tradition alongside written texts, pointing to passages where Jesus and the apostles relied on extrabiblical traditions as binding and authoritative.The seminar explores how the early Church resolved doctrinal disputes through councils rather than individual interpretation, establishing a pattern that continued through the ecumenical councils which defined essential Christian doctrines. Ben tackles the challenging "canon conundrum" – how Protestants must rely on Church authority to establish which books belong in the Bible while simultaneously rejecting that same authority in matters of interpretation and practice.Drawing from Church Fathers like St. Basil and St. Irenaeus, Ben reveals how the earliest Christians viewed Scripture and Tradition not as competing authorities but as complementary expressions of divine revelation. Even Protestant scholars acknowledge that the early Church didn't limit "inspiration" to canonical writings alone.Whether you're an Orthodox Christian seeking to better understand and articulate your faith, a Protestant curious about Orthodox perspectives, or simply interested in Christian history and theology, this seminar provides valuable insights into how the earliest Christians understood authority, revelation, and the relationship between Scripture and Tradition. Join us for this illuminating exploration of a foundational theological difference that continues to shape Christian dialogue today.Find an Orthodox Church near you today.  Visit https://www.antiochian.org/homeVisit Cloud of Witnesses Radio: https://cloudofwitnessesradio.com/Questions about Orthodoxy?  Please check out our friends at Ghost of Byzantium Discord server:https://discord.gg/JDJDQw6tdh*****Contact this episode's sponsor:LuciaCandleCompany.Etsy.com*****Please prayerfully consider supporting Cloud of Witnesses Radio:https://www.patreon.com/c/CloudofWitnessesRadioFind Cloud of Witnesses Radio on Instagram, X.com, Facebook, and TikTok.Thank you for journeying w/ the Saints with us!

 In this thought-provoking episode Will Small welcomes back Karl Hand to explore the often misunderstood concepts of sin and grace. As part of our series examining challenging theological concepts, this conversation offers fresh perspectives on terms that have sometimes been weaponised against marginalised communities.About Karl HandKarl Hand is a pastor with the Metropolitan Community Church and recently began working with the Australian Student Christian Movement, helping to revitalise campus ministry. With his background in theology and experience ministering primarily to LGBTQIA+ communities, Karl brings unique insights to these complex topics.Key Themes ExploredReclaiming the Language of SinKarl discusses how the word "sin" has been traumatic for many, especially in queer communities, where it's been used to shame and exclude. Yet rather than abandoning the term, he suggests reclaiming it—similar to how the word "queer" has been reclaimed—to access its transformative power when properly understood.Beyond "Crime and Punishment"The conversation traces how our understanding of sin has been shaped by Augustinian theology and mistranslations that frame sin as a crime demanding divine punishment. Karl offers alternative frameworks from theologians like Irenaeus, who viewed sin more as an interruption in our journey toward becoming who we're meant to be.Sin as SeparationRather than viewing sin as primarily about rule-breaking, Karl suggests understanding sin as "anything that comes between us and God." This reframing helps us see sin as exile or separation rather than as moral failure requiring punishment.The Relationship Between Sin and GraceKarl shares his personal experience of grace at age 13, describing how the recognition of sin created space for transformation. "If there's nothing wrong with where I'm at now, then I don't feel the need to cling onto grace quite as much," he explains, highlighting how sin and grace work together in our spiritual journey.Collective Sin and RepentanceThe conversation explores how sin operates not just individually but collectively through systems, structures, and intergenerational patterns. Karl points to global political movements and social injustices as evidence of our deep interconnectedness and shared responsibility.Queer Theology's GiftsKarl highlights how queer theology offers valuable perspectives on sin and grace, including the reclamation of pride as a virtue rather than a sin, the importance of hybrid identities, and the power of collective liberation.Recommended Reading:Want to reach out and let us know your thoughts or suggestions for the show? Send us a message here; we'd love to hear from you.The Spiritual Misfits Survival Guide (FREE): https://www.spiritualmisfits.com.au/survivalguideSign up to our mailing list:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/Join our online Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/spiritualmisfitspodcastSupport the pod:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/support-us/View all episodes at: https://spiritualmisfits.buzzsprout.com

Together, with Fr. Mike, we begin our examination of the Third Person of the Holy Trinity, the Holy Spirit, and how God reveals himself as the Holy Spirit in our lives. Fr. Mike emphasizes the words of St. Irenaeus that, “in order to be touched by Christ, we must first be touched by the Holy Spirit.” We also explore eight ways the Catechism lays out for us to be able to understand the Holy Spirit. Today's readings are Catechism Paragraphs 683-688. This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

In this episode, Ron and John kick off their new series on the creeds by exploring their roots in the Bible and early Christian tradition. What is the relationship between early Christian creeds and scripture? How did they develop? They look at work by the second-century Christian figure Irenaeus and [...] The post The Creeds, pt 1: An Early Blueprint appeared first on Orthodocs.faith.

In this episode of The FACTS Podcast, we explore the life and legacy of St. Linus, the second Bishop of Rome and the immediate successor to St. Peter. Who was Linus, and what role did he play in shaping the early structure of the Church? We'll examine the historical evidence surrounding his bishopric, his connection to Peter and Paul, and how his leadership helped solidify the emerging concept of the bishopric. We'll also consider how early church historians, including Irenaeus and Eusebius, viewed Linus's role in the transition from apostolic authority to the early episcopal model. Join us as we uncover the story of St. Linus and his influence on the foundation of the Catholic Church.If you'd like to donate to our ministry or be a monthly partner that receives newsletters and one on one discussions with Dr. Boyce, here's a link: https://give.tithe.ly/?formId=6381a2ee-b82f-42a7-809e-6b733cec05a7 #StLinus #EarlyChurch #ChurchHistory #Papacy #Bishopric #ApostolicSuccession #ChristianHistory #CatholicHistory #PeterAndLinus #EarlyChristianity #ChurchFathers #Rome #FaithAndTradition #TheFACTSPodcast

Psalm 38Reading 1: Exodus 19Reading 2: From the treatise Against Heresies by St. Irenaeus, bishopSupport 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

This video is the fourth in a series of commentary videos on David Bentley Hart's (  @leavesinthewind7441  ) lecture series at Cambridge entitled "The Light of Tabor : Towards a Monistic Chrisology". I mention Origen of Alexandria, Justin Martyr, Sergei Bulgakov, Gregory of Nyssa, Meister Eckhart, Maximus the Confessor, Irenaeus of Lyon, and more. DBH Commentary Part 1 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H7bh6_p2a6U&t=1806sDBH Commentary Part 2 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3irRxu7E4W4&t=0sDBH Commentary Part 3 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=84jBq2yTPXg&t=4104sAscension of Isaiah - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GgB3MNK-VLM&t=0sJDW on Transfigured 1 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e2eLe80YOaw&t=3547sJDW on Transfigured 2 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4VvE_Ac4qSc&t=2286sDBH Lecture 1 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3irRxu7E4W4&t=0sDBH Lecture 2 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tcu9e_1wAKU&t=2944sDBH Lecture 3 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HI_3n6VxxzI&t=3256sDBH Lecture 4 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-C-CK1abnCc&t=3007s

Tradition says Jesus was 33 when He died, but did early Church Fathers like St. Irenaeus suggest otherwise? Tim Staples explores this question and more, including Mary's virginity, swearing as a sin, and historical accounts of Jesus' miracles. Questions Covered:  08:39 – Can you explain Jesus' age when he died? St. Irenaeus seems to say Jesus died around the age of 50? 17:08 – Is there a list of spiritual faculties? 29:45 – Did Jesus know Mary was a virgin? Did he introduce her to people as “my virgin mother”? 42:28 – If I swear or use vulgar language, is that a mortal sin? 46:26 – Since Josephus was Jewish, did he include Jesus’ raising of the dead in his histories? 51:09 – Should I house my sister who lives with her female partner if she loses her job?

In this episode of Luke21, host Steve Wood explores the two great apostasies in biblical prophecy, highlighting the fall of the "Watchers" and the resulting spiritual deception. He examines the connections between 1 Enoch, St. Irenaeus, and the book of Revelation, exploring how these events foreshadow the global apostasy leading up to the Second Coming of Christ. Referenced in this episode: Genesis 6:1-4 Jude 6 2 Peter 2:4-5 Revelation 20:1-3 Revelation 20:7-8 Matthew 24:37 Matthew 24:12 Luke 18:8 Revelation 9:1-2 Revelation 16:13 Romans 10:7 Luke 8:31 Psalm 63:9 Psalm 71:20 Deuteronomy 32 Sirach 17:17 Revelation 11:7 Revelation 17:8 Revelation 20:1-3 Revelation 20:7-10 For exclusive content and additional resources on biblical prophecy, visit https://luke21.com/  Bible translations Steve recommends: RSV-CE – Revised Standard Version, Catholic Edition ESV – English Standard Version, if you don't want to use a Catholic bible We appreciate your interest in learning about biblical prophecy! If you are enjoying what you're listening to, please share with your friends & family. This podcast remains possible due to the support of our listeners.

Two of the more puzzling questions regarding how we got the Bible, especially the writings of the New Testament, are "who wrote them" and "how did we get the books that we have?"  The answers aren't as straightforward as one would think.  Still, thanks to the evidence within the Scriptures themselves and to the writings of some of the earliest Christians, we can with confidence know most of the true authors of the books of the Bible. More importantly, we can approach with these writings with trust, that they will lead us to eternal life if followed.  Scriptures covered: Luke 24:44-45.  1 Timothy 5:18.To see David Hicks on YouTube, click here.

Psalm 78Reading 1: Exodus 3Reading 2: From the treatise Against Heresies by St. Irenaeus, bishopSupport 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

Questions Covered: 02:52 – What would obligations for Sunday Mass be if you were in a Ground Hog's Day scenario? 08:38 – Do we jump around with the readings at Mass? 14:13 – How do I know the difference between a bishop, archbishop, and a cardinal? 20:39 – When did Jesus mean by “taking up your cross” when he wasn't crucified yet? Also, I'm writing a Catholic history book in Spanish; do I need an imprimatur? 20:39 – When did Jesus mean by “taking up your cross” when he wasn't crucified yet? Also, I'm writing a Catholic history book in Spanish; do I need an imprimatur? 36:10 – Why does God give us suffering when it feels like there’s no purpose? For example, a break-up. 45:50 – Why does St. Irenaeus say that the Church was founded and organized in Rome by Peter and Paul? 49:15 – What are the rules on working on Sunday? …

Irenaeus of Lyons was a pivotal figure in the early Church, bridging the apostolic era and the development of Christian orthodoxy. A student of Polycarp, who was a disciple of John, Irenaeus defended against Gnostic heresies, articulated the scriptural canon, and innovated theological concepts. His work, Against Heresies, refuted Gnostic dualism and solidified core Christian beliefs like the unity of God and the incarnation. Irenaeus also championed the "Rule of Faith" and episcopal authority as safeguards of authentic apostolic tradition. His doctrine of recapitulation framed Christ as the "New Adam," restoring humanity's relationship with God. www.twinsbiblicalacademy.com

Tom Riello on the beauty of Mary's "Yes," Mike Aquilina on St. Irenaeus, and Pat Arensberg on setting your eyes on eternity. 

Read 1 Enoch with us in the Hebrew Bible Book Club: https://www.patreon.com/hebrewbibleinsightsIn today's episode, we explore the significance of the Book of 1 Enoch and its impact on early Christian thought. Although most Christians today do not consider this book canonical, 1 Enoch offers valuable insights into Jewish eschatology and its influence on the New Testament. It is even quoted by Jude who says that Enoch prophesied. We delve into how early Christians, including church fathers like St. Irenaeus, engaged with Enoch's visions and teachings, and what this means for understanding prophetic traditions and the Gospel today. Join us as we uncover why 1 Enoch remains a vital text for Christians seeking a deeper historical and theological context.Chapters0:00-7:12 Why does the book of 1 Enoch matter?7:13-12:39 How we first encountered 1 Enoch12:40-19:42 1 Enoch and the Biblical Canon19:43-27:02 Enoch in Scripture and Enoch as a prophet27:03-37:10 St. Irenaeus of the early church and Enoch37:11-46:08 Prophetic tradition, the ancient Near East, and Enoch46:09-55:35 The Incarnation, the Gospel, and EnochJoin the Hebrew Bible Book Club ⁠https://www.patreon.com/hebrewbibleinsights WHERE TO FIND US Patreon: ⁠https://www.patreon.com/hebrewbibleinsights⁠ YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLRSNQ7xVw7PjQ5FnqYmSDA⁠ Podcast Platforms: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2268028/share Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/_hebrewbibleinsights/⁠ TikTok: ⁠www.tiktok.com/@hebrewbibleinsights⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/HebrewBibleInsights⁠ Website: ⁠https://www.hebrewbibleinsights.com

In this episode of FACTS, Dr. Boyce will dive into Malachi 1:11, exploring its prophetic connection to Eucharistic worship in the early Church. Dr. Boyce will investigate how this Old Testament passage foreshadows the practices of Christian Eucharist, as seen through the writings of early Church Fathers such as Justin Martyr, Irenaeus, Tertullian, Hippolytus, and Athanasius. By examining these early theological voices, Dr. Boyce will highlight how they recognized the fulfillment of Malachi's prophecy in the Church's sacramental life, offering a deeper understanding of the Eucharist as an integral part of Christian worship from the very beginning. Join us for this compelling exploration of Scripture, early Christian writings, and the rich history of the Eucharist in the Church. If you'd like to donate to our ministry or be a monthly partner that receives newsletters and one on one discussions with Dr. Boyce, here's a link: https://give.tithe.ly/?formId=6381a2ee-b82f-42a7-809e-6b733cec05a7 #Malachi1:11 #EucharisticWorship #EarlyChurchFathers #JustinMartyr #Irenaeus #Tertullian #Hippolytus #Athanasius #ChristianEucharist #ChurchHistory #SacramentalTheology #ProphecyAndTheEucharist #ChristianWorship #OldTestamentProphecy #FACTSPodcast #TheologyExploration #MalachisProphecy #EucharistInTheChurch

Dr. Beau Branson is a professor of philosophy at Brescia University. We discuss monarchical trinitarians and the theology of Gregory of Nyssa. We also discuss the recent book "One God, Three Persons, Four Views" book. We mention Luke Thompson (  @WhiteStoneName  ), Hank Kruse, Athanasius of Alexandria, Arius of Alexandria, Julian the Apostate, Gregory of Nyssa, Basil the Great, Gregory of Nazianzus, Scott Williams, Eunomius, Gregory Thermaturgos, Origen of Alexandria, Tertullian of Carthage, Rowan Williams, David Bentley Hart, Irenaeus of Lyon, Marcellus of Ancyra, Photinus of Galatia, Nestorius, Aristotle, John of Damascus, William Lane Craig, Michel René Barnes, Fr John Behr, Richard Swinburne, Dale Tuggy, Michael Servetus, Bart Ehrman, and more.

Christ's Torah: The Making of the New Testament in the Second Century (Routledge, 2023) explores the creation of the collection now known as the New Testament. While it is generally accepted that it did not emerge as a collection prior to the late second century CE, a more controversial question is how it came to be. How did the writings that make up the New Testament - The Gospels, the so-called Praxapostolos (Acts and the canonical letters), the Epistles of Paul, and Revelation - make their way into the collection, and what do we know about their possible historical origins, and in turn the emergence of the New Testament itself? The New Testament as we know it first became recognisable in more detail in Irenaeus of Lyon towards the end of the second century CE. However, questions remain as to how and by whom was it redacted. Was it a slow, organic process in which texts written by different authors, members of different communities and in various places, grew together into one book? Or were certain writings compiled on the basis of an editorial decision by an individual or a group of editors, revised for this purpose and partly harmonised with each other? This volume sketches out the complex development of the New Testament, arguing that key second century scholars played an important role in the emergence of the canonical collection and putting forward the possible historical origins of the text's composition. Markus Vinzent, who had held the H.G. Wood Chair in the History of Theology at the University of Birmingham (1999–2010) and was Professor for Theology and Patristics at the Department of Theology and Religious Studies, King's College London (2010–2021, ret.), is Fellow of the Max-Weber-Centre for Anthropological and Cultural Studies, University of Erfurt (2011–present). A recipient of awards from the British Academy, the Arts and Humanities Research Board, the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft, and the Agence Nationale de Recherche, France, he is the author of Writing the History of Early Christianity: From Reception to Retrospection (Cambridge University Press, 2019) and Resetting the Origins of Christianity: A New Theory of Sources and Beginnings (Cambridge University Press, 2023). Jonathon Lookadoo is Associate Professor at the Presbyterian University and Theological Seminary in Seoul, South Korea. While his interests range widely over the world of early Christianity, he is the author of books on the Epistle of Barnabas, Ignatius of Antioch, and the Shepherd of Hermas, including The Christology of Ignatius of Antioch (Cascade, 2023). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

Christ's Torah: The Making of the New Testament in the Second Century (Routledge, 2023) explores the creation of the collection now known as the New Testament. While it is generally accepted that it did not emerge as a collection prior to the late second century CE, a more controversial question is how it came to be. How did the writings that make up the New Testament - The Gospels, the so-called Praxapostolos (Acts and the canonical letters), the Epistles of Paul, and Revelation - make their way into the collection, and what do we know about their possible historical origins, and in turn the emergence of the New Testament itself? The New Testament as we know it first became recognisable in more detail in Irenaeus of Lyon towards the end of the second century CE. However, questions remain as to how and by whom was it redacted. Was it a slow, organic process in which texts written by different authors, members of different communities and in various places, grew together into one book? Or were certain writings compiled on the basis of an editorial decision by an individual or a group of editors, revised for this purpose and partly harmonised with each other? This volume sketches out the complex development of the New Testament, arguing that key second century scholars played an important role in the emergence of the canonical collection and putting forward the possible historical origins of the text's composition. Markus Vinzent, who had held the H.G. Wood Chair in the History of Theology at the University of Birmingham (1999–2010) and was Professor for Theology and Patristics at the Department of Theology and Religious Studies, King's College London (2010–2021, ret.), is Fellow of the Max-Weber-Centre for Anthropological and Cultural Studies, University of Erfurt (2011–present). A recipient of awards from the British Academy, the Arts and Humanities Research Board, the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft, and the Agence Nationale de Recherche, France, he is the author of Writing the History of Early Christianity: From Reception to Retrospection (Cambridge University Press, 2019) and Resetting the Origins of Christianity: A New Theory of Sources and Beginnings (Cambridge University Press, 2023). Jonathon Lookadoo is Associate Professor at the Presbyterian University and Theological Seminary in Seoul, South Korea. While his interests range widely over the world of early Christianity, he is the author of books on the Epistle of Barnabas, Ignatius of Antioch, and the Shepherd of Hermas, including The Christology of Ignatius of Antioch (Cascade, 2023). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/history

Christ's Torah: The Making of the New Testament in the Second Century (Routledge, 2023) explores the creation of the collection now known as the New Testament. While it is generally accepted that it did not emerge as a collection prior to the late second century CE, a more controversial question is how it came to be. How did the writings that make up the New Testament - The Gospels, the so-called Praxapostolos (Acts and the canonical letters), the Epistles of Paul, and Revelation - make their way into the collection, and what do we know about their possible historical origins, and in turn the emergence of the New Testament itself? The New Testament as we know it first became recognisable in more detail in Irenaeus of Lyon towards the end of the second century CE. However, questions remain as to how and by whom was it redacted. Was it a slow, organic process in which texts written by different authors, members of different communities and in various places, grew together into one book? Or were certain writings compiled on the basis of an editorial decision by an individual or a group of editors, revised for this purpose and partly harmonised with each other? This volume sketches out the complex development of the New Testament, arguing that key second century scholars played an important role in the emergence of the canonical collection and putting forward the possible historical origins of the text's composition. Markus Vinzent, who had held the H.G. Wood Chair in the History of Theology at the University of Birmingham (1999–2010) and was Professor for Theology and Patristics at the Department of Theology and Religious Studies, King's College London (2010–2021, ret.), is Fellow of the Max-Weber-Centre for Anthropological and Cultural Studies, University of Erfurt (2011–present). A recipient of awards from the British Academy, the Arts and Humanities Research Board, the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft, and the Agence Nationale de Recherche, France, he is the author of Writing the History of Early Christianity: From Reception to Retrospection (Cambridge University Press, 2019) and Resetting the Origins of Christianity: A New Theory of Sources and Beginnings (Cambridge University Press, 2023). Jonathon Lookadoo is Associate Professor at the Presbyterian University and Theological Seminary in Seoul, South Korea. While his interests range widely over the world of early Christianity, he is the author of books on the Epistle of Barnabas, Ignatius of Antioch, and the Shepherd of Hermas, including The Christology of Ignatius of Antioch (Cascade, 2023). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Christ's Torah: The Making of the New Testament in the Second Century (Routledge, 2023) explores the creation of the collection now known as the New Testament. While it is generally accepted that it did not emerge as a collection prior to the late second century CE, a more controversial question is how it came to be. How did the writings that make up the New Testament - The Gospels, the so-called Praxapostolos (Acts and the canonical letters), the Epistles of Paul, and Revelation - make their way into the collection, and what do we know about their possible historical origins, and in turn the emergence of the New Testament itself? The New Testament as we know it first became recognisable in more detail in Irenaeus of Lyon towards the end of the second century CE. However, questions remain as to how and by whom was it redacted. Was it a slow, organic process in which texts written by different authors, members of different communities and in various places, grew together into one book? Or were certain writings compiled on the basis of an editorial decision by an individual or a group of editors, revised for this purpose and partly harmonised with each other? This volume sketches out the complex development of the New Testament, arguing that key second century scholars played an important role in the emergence of the canonical collection and putting forward the possible historical origins of the text's composition. Markus Vinzent, who had held the H.G. Wood Chair in the History of Theology at the University of Birmingham (1999–2010) and was Professor for Theology and Patristics at the Department of Theology and Religious Studies, King's College London (2010–2021, ret.), is Fellow of the Max-Weber-Centre for Anthropological and Cultural Studies, University of Erfurt (2011–present). A recipient of awards from the British Academy, the Arts and Humanities Research Board, the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft, and the Agence Nationale de Recherche, France, he is the author of Writing the History of Early Christianity: From Reception to Retrospection (Cambridge University Press, 2019) and Resetting the Origins of Christianity: A New Theory of Sources and Beginnings (Cambridge University Press, 2023). Jonathon Lookadoo is Associate Professor at the Presbyterian University and Theological Seminary in Seoul, South Korea. While his interests range widely over the world of early Christianity, he is the author of books on the Epistle of Barnabas, Ignatius of Antioch, and the Shepherd of Hermas, including The Christology of Ignatius of Antioch (Cascade, 2023). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/religion

Christ's Torah: The Making of the New Testament in the Second Century (Routledge, 2023) explores the creation of the collection now known as the New Testament. While it is generally accepted that it did not emerge as a collection prior to the late second century CE, a more controversial question is how it came to be. How did the writings that make up the New Testament - The Gospels, the so-called Praxapostolos (Acts and the canonical letters), the Epistles of Paul, and Revelation - make their way into the collection, and what do we know about their possible historical origins, and in turn the emergence of the New Testament itself? The New Testament as we know it first became recognisable in more detail in Irenaeus of Lyon towards the end of the second century CE. However, questions remain as to how and by whom was it redacted. Was it a slow, organic process in which texts written by different authors, members of different communities and in various places, grew together into one book? Or were certain writings compiled on the basis of an editorial decision by an individual or a group of editors, revised for this purpose and partly harmonised with each other? This volume sketches out the complex development of the New Testament, arguing that key second century scholars played an important role in the emergence of the canonical collection and putting forward the possible historical origins of the text's composition. Markus Vinzent, who had held the H.G. Wood Chair in the History of Theology at the University of Birmingham (1999–2010) and was Professor for Theology and Patristics at the Department of Theology and Religious Studies, King's College London (2010–2021, ret.), is Fellow of the Max-Weber-Centre for Anthropological and Cultural Studies, University of Erfurt (2011–present). A recipient of awards from the British Academy, the Arts and Humanities Research Board, the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft, and the Agence Nationale de Recherche, France, he is the author of Writing the History of Early Christianity: From Reception to Retrospection (Cambridge University Press, 2019) and Resetting the Origins of Christianity: A New Theory of Sources and Beginnings (Cambridge University Press, 2023). Jonathon Lookadoo is Associate Professor at the Presbyterian University and Theological Seminary in Seoul, South Korea. While his interests range widely over the world of early Christianity, he is the author of books on the Epistle of Barnabas, Ignatius of Antioch, and the Shepherd of Hermas, including The Christology of Ignatius of Antioch (Cascade, 2023). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/biblical-studies

Zechariah 6-7 Revelation 15 Psalm 143 Proverbs 30:24-28 Selections from The Night the Stars Sang: St. Irenaeus's Thought for Epiphany "May You Have Joy" by Elisabeth Searle Lamb Song: Atch - Found You Music provided by Vlog No Copyright Music. Creative Commons - Attribution 3.0 Unported Video Link: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://youtu.be/G774NKvUm88⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠#NoCopyrightMusic⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠#VlogMusic⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠#VlogNoCopyrightMusic

We look at the parable of the Good Samaritan, seeing that Jesus is both the good Samaritan and the wounded one, inviting us to be a community that cooperates with God in humanity's healing.

In this episode of Kingdom Life, Chris Romig sheds light on the Second Coming of Christ, as detailed in the Book of Revelation. His congregation's study emphasizes that while interpretations of eschatology vary across denominations and personal biases, these differences do not compromise salvation or Christian unity. Chris underscores the necessity of faithfully anticipating Jesus' return and highlights key scriptural signs such as tribulations, seen as divine judgment before Christ's majestic arrival with his saints to establish His reign on earth. A significant portion of the discussion is dedicated to the pre-tribulation rapture, a belief that Christians will be taken to Heaven before the Great Tribulation. Chris uses the analogy of an ancient Galilean wedding to illustrate Jesus' promise of preparing a place for believers and returning for them, encouraging a deeper scriptural study to navigate common criticisms of the rapture. He references early Christian views like those of Irenaeus to support the idea of a pre-tribulation rapture, distinguishing routine Christian tribulations from the intensified Great Tribulation. The doctrine of the rapture is presented as a beacon of hope and comfort, prompting believers to live with urgency, sharing the Gospel, and expressing love as Jesus taught. Ultimately, Chris calls on Christians to anchor their assurance in grace and be prepared for Christ's return, reassuring that God's plans are clear when approached with diligent study and faithful anticipation.

Dr. Ryan Mullins talks about the recently published "One God, Three Persons, Four Views" book. He is the curator of the book series that is publishing this book. We mention Dr. Dale Tuggy (  @khanpadawan  ), Dr. William Hasker, Dr. William Lane Craig, Dr. Beau Branson, Dr. Chad McIntosh, Michaelangelo, Arius of Alexandria, Jake Brancatella the Muslim Metaphysician (  @JakeBrancatella  ), Julius Caesar, Octavian Augustus, Justin Martyr, Irenaeus, and more. The book - https://www.amazon.com/Three-Persons-Four-Views-Philosophical/dp/1666719056 The reluctant theologian podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-reluctant-theologian-podcast/id1455521623 Dr. RT Mullins Twitter - https://x.com/theRTMullins?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor

John David explains the mystery of the Trinity and the beauty of Jesus making available to us fellowship with the Triune God.

What is the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception?Today, I decided to do something a little different.  I usually begin by sharing a scripture verse with you.  However, today is a very special day, at least in the Catholic Church.  There is a lot of confusion about this day and so I wanted to explain what we are actually celebrating today and why we are celebrating it.  Today, in the Catholic Church, we celebrate the Immaculate Conception.  When I was growing up I never understood how Mary could have immaculately conceived Jesus on the 8th of December and then delivered him on December 25th.  It didn't make sense to me and yet I didn't really question it.  It was not until I was an adult, I am not sure how many years ago, that I learned what we were truly celebrating.  I found this great article that explains what we are celebrating and why.  It is called, “8 Things You Need to Know About the Immaculate Conception,” by Jimmy Akin.  I will put a link for the article in the show notes.  (Click Here) for the article. This is where I found the information for this episode.The Immaculate Conceptions is not referring to Jesus' conception, it is referring to Mary's conception.  Mary has a human mother and father, her conception was not the same as Jesus'.  However, it was special in another way.  Here is how the Catholic Church explains it:CCC490 To become the mother of the Saviour, Mary “was enriched by God with gifts appropriate to such a role.” The angel Gabriel at the moment of the annunciation salutes her as “full of grace”.  In fact, in order for Mary to be able to give the free assent of her faith to the announcement of her vocation, it was necessary that she be wholly borne by God's grace.CCC491 Through the centuries the Church has become ever more aware that Mary, “full of grace” through God, was redeemed from the moment of her conception. That is what the dogma of the Immaculate Conception confesses, as Pope Pius IX proclaimed in 1854:The most Blessed Virgin Mary was, from the first moment of her conception, by a singular grace and privilege of almighty God and by virtue of the merits of Jesus Christ, Saviour of the human race, preserved immune from all stain of original sin. This means that Mary was not only free from original sin, but she was also free from person sin as well.  The Catechism of the Catholic Church explains:CCC493 The Fathers of the Eastern tradition call the Mother of God “the All-Holy” (Panagia), and celebrate her as “free from any stain of sin, as though fashioned by the Holy Spirit and formed as a new creature”.  By the grace of God Mary remained free of every personal sin her whole life long. “Let it be done to me according to your word. . .”The next question Akin asks is, “If Mary was free from sin, does that mean she didn't need Jesus to die on a cross for her?"He answers, “No. What we've already quoted states that Mary was immaculately conceived as part of her being “full of grace” and thus "redeemed from the moment of her conception" by "a singular grace and privilege of almighty God and by virtue of the merits of Jesus Christ, Saviour of the human race."The Catechism goes on to state:CCC492 The “splendour of an entirely unique holiness” by which Mary is “enriched from the first instant of her conception” comes wholly from Christ: she is “redeemed, in a more exalted fashion, by reason of the merits of her Son”.  The Father blessed Mary more than any other created person “in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places” and chose her “in Christ before the foundation of the world, to be holy and blameless before him in love”.CCC508 From among the descendants of Eve, God chose the Virgin Mary to be the mother of his Son. “Full of grace”, Mary is “the most excellent fruit of redemption” (SC 103): from the first instant of her conception, she was totally preserved from the stain of original sin and she remained pure from all personal sin throughout her life.The next question Akin asked is, “How does this make Mary a parallel of Eve?”  His is answer is:  Adam and Eve were both created immaculate--without original sin or its stain. They fell from grace, and through them mankind was bound to sin.  Christ and Mary were also conceived immaculate. They remained faithful, and through them mankind was redeemed from sin. Christ is thus the New Adam, and Mary the New Eve.The Catechism notes:CCC494 . . . As St. Irenaeus says, “Being obedient she became the cause of salvation for herself and for the whole human race.” Hence not a few of the early Fathers gladly assert. . .: “The knot of Eve's disobedience was untied by Mary's obedience: what the virgin Eve bound through her disbelief, Mary loosened by her faith.”  Comparing her with Eve, they call Mary “the Mother of the living” and frequently claim: “Death through Eve, life through Mary.”Another question Akin asked was, “Was it necessary for God to make Mary immaculate at her conception so that she could be Jesus' mother?”Akin writes, “No. The Church only speaks of the Immaculate Conception as something that was "fitting," something that made Mary a "fit habitation" (i.e., suitable dwelling) for the Son of God, not something that was necessary. Thus in preparing to define the dogma, Pope Pius IX stated:And hence they [the Church Fathers] affirmed that the Blessed Virgin was, through grace, entirely free from every stain of sin, and from all corruption of body, soul and mind; that she was always united with God and joined to him by an eternal covenant; that she was never in darkness but always in light; and that, therefore, she was entirely a fit habitation for Christ, not because of the state of her body, but because of her original grace. . . .For it was certainly not fitting that this vessel of election should be wounded by the common injuries, since she, differing so much from the others, had only nature in common with them, not sin. In fact, it was quite fitting that, as the Only-Begotten has a Father in heaven, whom the Seraphim extol as thrice holy, so he should have a Mother on earth who would never be without the splendor of holiness [Ineffabilis Deus]."Many of you listening may have already known all about this special day.  However, I felt it was important to explain as I remember when I first found out what we were celebrating I was confused.  I didn't really understand at first and I would have loved to have had this article back then.  I know there are some people who don't understand that we aren't celebrating Jesus' immaculate conception and so I wanted to clear up any misunderstandings about this day.  For those of you who are Catholic, just in case you don't know, the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conceptions is a holy day of obligation.  I hope you all enjoyed this little explanation and I hope you check out the article for more information.  Dear Heavenly Father, we are so grateful you gave us Mary so she could say yes to having your one and only son.  We are so grateful you came up with a plan to save us.  We are grateful for all you have done for us over the years.  We don't deserve anything and yet you give us so much.  We thank you Lord.  We love you and we celebrate and honor your beautiful daughter Mary today.  We honor you and your plan for her life.  You are so amazing how you plan everything out in advance.  You are the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords.  You are truly remarkable and we ask all of this in accordance with your will and in Jesus' holy name, Amen!Thank you so much for joining me on this journey to walk boldly with Jesus.  I look forward to spending time with you tomorrow.  Remember, Jesus loves you and so do I! Have a blessed day! www.findingtruenorthcoaching.comCLICK HERE TO DONATECLICK HERE to sign up for Mentoring CLICK HERE to sign up for Daily "Word from the Lord" emailsCLICK HERE to sign up for my newsletter & receive a free audio training about inviting Jesus into your daily lifeCLICK HERE to buy my book Total Trust in God's Safe Embrace

We begin our Advent Series, celebrating the arrival of God made flesh, declaring the good news that Jesus is re-telling your story, healing the wounds of sin you've inflicted on others and that others have inflicted on you.

Welcome to the podcast! This week, we're looking at some "fan mail" and we'll be answering the question: is the completion of the Bible the end of Spiritual gifts?--The PursueGOD Truth podcast is the “easy button” for making disciples – whether you're looking for resources to lead a family devotional, a small group at church, or a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday and Friday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org.Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org.Donate Now --1 Corinthians 13 is often called the “Love Chapter” due to its powerful emphasis on the necessity of love for the Christian life. However, this passage has also been the subject of considerable debate, particularly surrounding the meaning of the term "the perfect" in verse 10 and how it relates to the continuation or cessation of spiritual gifts like tongues and prophecy.Some argue that “the perfect” refers to the completion of the New Testament canon, and therefore, the miraculous gifts of the Spirit, such as tongues, prophecy, and knowledge, ceased once Scripture was completed. This cessationist view suggests that now that we have the Bible, we no longer need these gifts because Scripture is sufficient for our spiritual direction and maturity.This article will explore the context of 1 Corinthians 13 and challenge the interpretation that “the perfect” refers to the completed New Testament, showing instead that Paul is pointing to something far greater and still future—the return of Christ and the full revelation of God's kingdom.Q. Where did this interpretation come from in the first place?The interpretation that “the perfect” in 1 Corinthians 13:10 refers to the completion of the New Testament and that spiritual gifts like tongues, prophecy, and knowledge have ceased, primarily stems from the Cessationist theological perspective. This view emerged from a particular way of reading the New Testament and was later developed within certain branches of Protestantism.Here's an overview of how this interpretation evolved:1. Early Church to the ReformationIn the early church, there was no clear consensus that spiritual gifts had ceased after the apostolic age. The early Church Fathers, such as Justin Martyr, Irenaeus, and Tertullian, referenced the continued operation of spiritual gifts, including prophecy and tongues, in their writings. However, as Christianity became institutionalized and the church grew more organized, miraculous manifestations of the Spirit seemed to become less common, leading some to believe that these gifts were no longer needed.During the Reformation (16th century), Protestant reformers like John Calvin began to articulate a view that extraordinary spiritual gifts were no longer active. Calvin, in particular, believed that miracles and certain gifts, such as tongues and prophecy, were given for the foundational period of the church and had ceased after the apostolic age. He argued that the purpose of these gifts was to authenticate the apostles' ministry as they spread the gospel and that once the canon of Scripture was completed, they were no longer necessary. This line of reasoning laid a foundation for later Cessationist views.2. Post-Reformation DevelopmentThe...

Fr. John Behr is the Professor of Humanity at the University of Aberdeen. This is his second appearance on this channel. We discuss his book which is a translation and critical edition of Gregory of Nyssa's "On the Human Image of God". We mention Gregory of Nyssa, Origen of Alexandria, Gregory the Wonderworker, Basil the Great, Gregory of Nazianzus, Plato, The Timmaeus, Philo of Alexandria, Anaxagoras, John Scotus Eriugena, David Bentley Hart, Irenaeus of Lyon, and many more. Fr. John Behr's book - https://www.amazon.com/Gregory-Nyssa-Human-Oxford-Christian/dp/0192843974 Fr. John Behr on Origen - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G4S4BZJcqF0&t=339s

Are there records through history of people seeing spirits and other spiritual things? Join Doug and Emily as they discuss if seers are new to our time, or if they have been around since "Bible times." From Irenaeus to Cotton Mather to the Enlightenment to Abraham Lincoln, the conversation was wide ranging!

Questions Covered: 03:27 – How can I get across to my confirmation students the importance of going to confession?  11:53 – How did the Magi know that the star of Bethlehem was leading them to the king of the Jews?  16:21 – Does Joe still hate cheesecake or have you repented of that sin? And is Cy going to release a full version of St. Irenaeus and the Goblet of Fire?  22:26 – I heard Catholics say that Scripture has a kind of primacy over Tradition. But that seems to contradict what I've read in the Catechism and Dei Verbum. Can you explain?  31:19 – The shroud of turin is one cloth, but one of the Gospels clearly says there's a separate cloth for his head. Is that a problem?  34:33 – What is the Catholic position on embryos? Are they alive or just tissue?  43:44 – Can you help me explain the role of Mary in salvation history?  48:39 – How can we know God, and in what way is a person able to know God?  52:05 – How can be there different levels of approach to God in heaven? I'm uncomfortable with that idea.  …

In this episode of The Defender Podcast, co-host Dr. Rick Morton sits down with David E. Prince at this year's 2024 Southern Baptist Convention to discuss the importance of staying grounded in faith by reflecting God's love through action. Together, they explore the call to care for vulnerable children, underscoring how living out the gospel means embodying values like adoption and compassion that mirror God's character and mission. Amid cultural pressures challenging foundational beliefs on family and marriage, they highlight the church's role in supporting and serving others. Through acts of love and grace, Christians can stay rooted in truth and boldly engage with the world around them.GUESTDavid E. Prince is pastor of preaching and vision at Ashland Avenue Baptist Church in Lexington, Kentucky and assistant professor of Christian preaching at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. He is the author of In the Arena and Church with Jesus as the Hero. He frequently writes for The Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission, For the Church,  the BGEA and Preaching Today.He received his M.Div from Southwestern Theological Seminary and his Ph.D from the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary.He is married to Judi and they have eight children (three boys and five girls). He is a baseball aficionado and an avid Atlanta Braves fan, but he also enjoys football (#rolltide) and basketball. When he isn't spending time with his family, or playing sports with his kids, he can usually be found reading. His list of influential authors include: Edmund Clowney, Andrew Fuller, George Eldon Ladd, Graeme Goldsworthy, Irenaeus, John MacArthur, John Piper, Tom Schreiner, and Russell Moore.CO-HOSTDr. Rick Morton is the Vice President of Engagement at Lifeline Children's Services.ORPHAN SUNDAYLifeline Children's Services invites churches, pastors, and families to participate in Orphan Sunday, a day dedicated to raising awareness about the plight of the fatherless. Each year, hundreds of churches partner with Lifeline to speak up for orphans and vulnerable children around the world. With resources like videos, prayer cards, sample sermons, and small group guides, Lifeline equips churches to share God's call to care for the fatherless and find practical ways to respond. Though we may not all be able to adopt or foster, Orphan Sunday encourages everyone to take action and support these precious children. Learn more at LifelineChild.org/Orphan-Sunday.LIFELINE CHILDREN'S SERVICESThe mission of Lifeline Children's Services is to equip the Body of Christ to manifest the gospel to vulnerable children. Our vision is for vulnerable children and their communities to be transformed by the gospel and to make disciples. FOLLOW USFacebook, Instagram, TwitterThe Defender Podcast: Subscribe on iTunes | Transistor | SpotifyThe Defender Bible Study: Subscribe on iTunes | Transistor | Spotify

Series: Mystical TheologyEpisode 24: “De Trinitate”, Book IX, Augustine of Hippo: An Orthodox Perspective, Part 5, Dr. C. VeniaminIn Part 5 of “Augustine of Hippo: An Orthodox Perspective”, Episode 24 of our series in “Mystical Theology”, we conclude our remarks on St. Augustine's “Commentary on Ps. 134:3 (135:3)”, and then begin reading from Book IX of his “de Trinitate”. Particular attention is given to Augustine's understanding of “sure knowledge” in the Life to Come in contrast to the Patristic understanding of the vision of God, as expressed by St. Irenaeus of Lyons. Other themes broached in this episode are listed in the Timestamps below.Q&As available in The Professor's BlogRecommended background reading: Christopher Veniamin, ed., Saint Gregory Palamas: The Homilies (Dalton PA: 2022); The Orthodox Understanding of Salvation: "Theosis" in Scripture and Tradition (2016); The Transfiguration of Christ in Greek Patristic Literature (2022); and Metropolitan Hierotheos Vlachos, Empirical Dogmatics of the Orthodox Catholic Church: According to the Spoken Teaching of Father John Romanides, Vol. 1 (2012), Vol. 2 (repr. ed. 2020).Further bibliography may be found in our "Scholar's Corner" webpage.Support the showDr. Christopher VeniaminSupport The Mount Thabor Academyhttps://www.buzzsprout.com/2232462/support The Professor's BlogFurther bibliography may be found in our Scholar's Corner.THE MOUNT THABOR ACADEMYPrint Books by MOUNT THABOR PUBLISHING eBooks Amazon Google Apple KoboB&NMembershipsJoin our Academy on Patreon: Membership TiersYouTube Membership LevelsContact us: ...

Do you assume that being “spiritual but not religious” is a fad of modernism? Think again. It goes way, way back into history. Dr. Michael Horton joins Derek, Matt, and Alastair to talk about this attitude from the cults of Orpheus in ancient Persia through Neo-Platonism and it's influence on Christianity and even the language of ascent in the Reformers. Join us for a wild ride that ends with your friendly neighborhood Instagram influencer. Full show notes at www.merefidelity.com. Timestamps: A Definitely Interesting Book [0:00] Why did it have to be shamans? [3:05] Disorganized Religion [7:18] Orpheus and Natural Supernaturalism [9:38] Plato and Christianity [14:08] Ritual Creep [20:37] Irenaeus vs Origen [26:05] History of Religion [33:13] I can haz ascent? [39:10] Popular Gnosticism [48:21]