In this second installment of our introductory series on Eastern Orthodoxy, Camden Bucey considers key theological distinctions and points of contact between Eastern Orthodox and Reformed theology. This episode focuses on the doctrine of God and the nature of salvation. We examine the shared commitment to Nicene Trinitarianism, while highlighting distinct emphases in Eastern and Western Trinitarian formulations.

The discussion also explores the Eastern Orthodox concept of the essence-energies distinction, theosis (deification), and the centrality of Christ’s incarnation and resurrection in their soteriology. Crucially, we contrast the Reformed doctrine of justification by grace through faith alone with the synergistic model of salvation found in Eastern Orthodoxy, raising important questions about assurance, divine simplicity, and the relationship between justification and sanctification.

Chapters

00:00 – Introduction
00:29 – The Holy Trinity in Eastern Orthodoxy
03:32 – The Filioque Controversy
07:51 – Essence-Energies Distinction
12:46 – Theosis and Deification
18:54 – Justification and Forensic Categories
26:10 – Synergism vs. Monergism
31:11 – Assurance and Pastoral Implications
34:21 – Summary and Preview of Part 3

Watch Part 1: https://youtube.com/live/HulZlUXAJ78?feature=share

Understanding Eastern Orthodoxy: A Reformed Introduction Part 2 (The Doctrine of God and Salvation)