At the Intersection of East and West

Explore the concept of 'phronema' and its vital role in aligning mindset with Christ’s teachings. Discover the intimate journey of developing an Orthodox mindset through daily faith. The discussion emphasizes the balance between divine grace and personal responsibility in spiritual growth. Challenges of modernity, like narcissism, highlight the need for humility and a focus on community. Learn about the six key truths that underscore the essence of Orthodox thinking and how they can transform your relationship with Jesus.

As we have learned, “the theologian is one who prays.” While that is certainly important, it’s not the only characteristic of true theologians. There’s more to it than that—much more. In this episode, Dn. Michael considers ten characteristics of true theologians. Surprisingly, they’re relevant to all Orthodox Christians not just theologians.

An Orthodox Phronema sits on a three-legged stool: Tradition, Scripture, and the Fathers. In this episode, we consider the role of the Fathers. Specifically, we answer several questions about them: Who are they, why are they important, and how do they relate to Scripture and Tradition.

We’ve seen the important role Tradition plays in the shaping of our phronema. But what role does the Bible play in its development? To answer that question, we consider Holy Scriptures from three perspectives: Inspiration, Interpretation, and Instruction. We also look at how Tradition and Scripture relate to each other.

Tradition is the foundation of Orthodox Christianity. It permeates everything we believe and do. But when Orthodox Christians talk about Tradition, they mean something different that Protestants or Roman Catholics. In this episode, we consider five questions about Tradition, including what it is and what it’s not

Many people view theology as a dry, academic pursuit. In the Orthodox tradition, however, we understand theology as talking to God, not merely talking about Him. In this episode, we look at the three saints in the church’s history who bear the title “Theologian.” Their examples show us what true theology is and how to make it part of our Christian experience.

Explore the transformative concept of Orthodox phronema and its distinction from Western thought. Discover the non-linear journey of spiritual growth and the vital role of perseverance amidst challenges. Delve into how societal pressures, like consumerism, impact one's spiritual progress. Gain insights into cultivating a strong Orthodox mindset in today’s world, along with practical steps for deepening your connection with Christ and the Church. Learn about the influences shaping your Orthodox perspective, setting the stage for a deeper theological exploration.

Explore the intriguing concept of 'phronema' and how it shapes different Christian mindsets. The conversation dives into the similarities and differences between Protestantism, Roman Catholicism, and Orthodoxy. Discover the humorous side of misunderstandings among Orthodox priests in the past. Delve into salvation checklists in Protestantism versus the emphasis on tradition in Catholicism. Finally, examine the deeper theological implications of authority and revelation that fuel debates across these faiths.

Now that we’ve discussed the two major expressions of the Western phronema (episode 122), Dn. Michael returns to the Orthodox phronema to compare and contrast it. If we are going to acquire it, we need to know what we’re looking for. In this episode he discusses the five main attributes of an Orthodox phronema.

Dive into the rich tapestry of Orthodox Thinking, exploring how personality assessments intersect with faith. Discover the contrasts between Eastern and Western perspectives on thought, particularly the holistic approach of 'phronema.' Unpack the concept of 'phronema' as it bridges knowledge and lived experience in daily life. Learn about the church's crucial role in preserving truth and how communal interpretation differs from individualistic approaches. Engage with the ongoing conversation about faith, scripture, and shared understanding.