This quote is very helpful. More of an Orthodox mindset versus our modern evangelical teaching of we were once great and perfect now we begin from a fallen hopeless state…would love to lean or learn more of how to integrate the power of Christ in us as we grow and mature in Christ. Actually probably already stated turning to face God through a willing spirit (obedience)!
As St. Irenaeus explained:
“Though created in a state of innocence and did not know good and evil, infant humanity had the natural capacity to grow into full maturity in God. “You shall be like God,” though spoken by the serpent, was indeed the promise of God – but to be actualized through obedience, not disobedience. The serpent offered a shortcut.”
Hi Karen ... I'm delighted to hear that the quote resonated with you. Your observation about the Orthodox mindset versus modern evangelical teaching is spot-on. The Orthodox tradition often emphasizes the concept of "theosis," which aligns well with the idea of growing and maturing in Christ. It's a perspective that I find deeply enriching and one that I think offers a more holistic understanding of Christian transformation.
St. Irenaeus' words are a powerful reminder that our journey toward God is not a sprint but a marathon. The "shortcut" offered by the serpent is a temptation I succumb to over and over. Currently, I'm trying to learn from that. I'm not sure if I'm deluded and need to try harder. Or if this whole process of temptation is "tenderizing" me, growing empathy within, and causing me to deepen in patience while I actively-wait for transformative healing. While I may grapple with uncertainties about the process unfolding within me, I'm definitely sure that the whole process is covered in mercy.
Thank you for your thoughtful comment. I'm eager to hear more of your thoughts as we continue the journey together.
This quote is very helpful. More of an Orthodox mindset versus our modern evangelical teaching of we were once great and perfect now we begin from a fallen hopeless state…would love to lean or learn more of how to integrate the power of Christ in us as we grow and mature in Christ. Actually probably already stated turning to face God through a willing spirit (obedience)!
As St. Irenaeus explained:
“Though created in a state of innocence and did not know good and evil, infant humanity had the natural capacity to grow into full maturity in God. “You shall be like God,” though spoken by the serpent, was indeed the promise of God – but to be actualized through obedience, not disobedience. The serpent offered a shortcut.”
Hi Karen ... I'm delighted to hear that the quote resonated with you. Your observation about the Orthodox mindset versus modern evangelical teaching is spot-on. The Orthodox tradition often emphasizes the concept of "theosis," which aligns well with the idea of growing and maturing in Christ. It's a perspective that I find deeply enriching and one that I think offers a more holistic understanding of Christian transformation.
St. Irenaeus' words are a powerful reminder that our journey toward God is not a sprint but a marathon. The "shortcut" offered by the serpent is a temptation I succumb to over and over. Currently, I'm trying to learn from that. I'm not sure if I'm deluded and need to try harder. Or if this whole process of temptation is "tenderizing" me, growing empathy within, and causing me to deepen in patience while I actively-wait for transformative healing. While I may grapple with uncertainties about the process unfolding within me, I'm definitely sure that the whole process is covered in mercy.
Thank you for your thoughtful comment. I'm eager to hear more of your thoughts as we continue the journey together.