Today’s readings, followed by a few pastoral & personal thoughts. Today’s reading from St James is one of my favorites. It is also one of the least understood parts of the NT, because of a misunderstanding about what “justification” is. Some Orthodox Christians may not see what the “big deal” is here, but this is… Continue reading Justification, faith and works. 33rd Mon after Pentecost.
Category: Epistle:James
36th Friday after Pentecost – James 2:1-13 – The Royal Law
Christianity is perfection by degrees. It does not abolish the law – it fulfills it. I have spoken many times about the cognitive dissonance produced in our soul by observing the lamentable reality of our lives – our weaknesses, bad habits, tendency to fall into sin again and again – vs. the promise and requirement… Continue reading 36th Friday after Pentecost – James 2:1-13 – The Royal Law
36th Thursday after Pentecost – James 1:19-27 – Are you religious?
When I was in college, and on the way to Orthodoxy, but still not even knowing that it existed, it was fashionable in my circle to deny that we were “religious”. This was a four letter word to us – we arrogantly and ignorantly (I know now) stated that we were “Christian” and NOT “religious”.… Continue reading 36th Thursday after Pentecost – James 1:19-27 – Are you religious?