Transfigured Fr Stephen DeYoung on worship, spirits, and Christology
Mar 3, 2022
Fr. Stephen DeYoung, an Eastern Orthodox priest and author, dives deep into the essence of worship and Christology. He discusses the challenge of materialism on spirituality, urging listeners to see God beyond physical confines. The conversation explores diverse worship practices and the importance of communal rituals in fostering unity. Delving into the significance of the Eucharist and the evolving nature of Christ within scripture, Fr. DeYoung highlights the rich interplay between faith, history, and divine understanding in both ancient and modern contexts.
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Breaking Materialism's Limits
- Modern materialism limits reality to what is physical, dismissing love, justice, and peace as imaginary.
- Orthodox Christianity seeks to 'blow out the brackets' of materialism, restoring belief in the spiritual realm's active presence.
Ancient Worship as Hospitality
- Fr. Stephen recounts the ancient worship practice involving food offerings and incense as expressions of hospitality toward God.
- He explains the Old Testament sacrificial meal where the best portions are offered to God and then shared among priests and worshipers.
Priests as Mediation Experts
- Priests in ancient Israel served as holiness mediators, prepared to approach God safely.
- Orthodox liturgy extends this priestly role to the whole community, emphasizing participation over priestly power.
