Protestant Interviews Orthodox Priest

[@Mark-yb1sp]

Orthodoxy is timeless as Christ is timeless.

[@GospelSimplicity]

Thanks

[@evans3922]

Amen...exactly

[@Onyx_eye_records]

It’s crazy to think that the Orthodox Church was born in 69 AD with the consecration of Bishop Ignatius of Antioch by St John the Apostle. It’s nearly difficult to wrap my mind around the fact that this was only 36 years after Christ’s crucifixion/resurrection.

[@fallenslave6684]

A religion is not God. Christ is more valuable than ortodoxy. If you confuse Christ with religion you make a terrible mistake.

[@lindaS_]

@@Onyx_eye_records So were all 7 churches of Revelation, but how many of them were continuing IN Christ, not just in TRADITION, according to the message Jesus addresses each of them!

[@willtheperson7224]

"Orthodoxy is what Christ preached, what the Apostles taught, and what the Fathers kept." - St Athanasius of Alexandria

[@GospelSimplicity]

While I like this quote, it’s not like he was saying that in opposition to Catholicism or Protestantism as that would be a bit anachronistic

[@willtheperson7224]

@@GospelSimplicity True. It's just a great quote from a great saint. (Pre Schism, so terms like Orthodox and Catholic were used interchangeably)

[@TheRealRealOK]

@@GospelSimplicity Yes, because Only Orthodoxy existed at the time.

[@GospelSimplicity]

@@willtheperson7224 that it is!

[@Eagle1349]

@@willtheperson7224 , great point!

[@mathiasendresen2110]

I was baptized into the Orthodox Church just over a week ago in a ROCOR parish. Grew up as a Protestant. Glory be to God.

[@GospelSimplicity]

Congrats!

[@mathiasendresen2110]

@@GospelSimplicity Thank you. I also watched your interview with Fr. Josiah Trenham, who is an amazing priest as well. Thanks for your video content.

[@greenhaven-podcast]

@@mathiasendresen2110 welcome home! 🙏☦️

[@evans3922]

God bless you..welcome home

[@linyenchin6773]

@@mathiasendresen2110 bureaucratic mess, that chain of false gods which forms catholic delusion and insult to actual following of Jesus Chris.

[@eetuerrenor5757]

I have a sense that Eastern Orthodoxy is growing steadily over there... Some 20 years ago no one knew it, and now there are videos about it all over the place. Thanks, I am waiting for this passionately!

[@GospelSimplicity]

I get that sense as well. Hope you enjoy it!

[@curlyfro97]

Definitely. Mass converts to Orthodoxy as people are left feeling spiritually dry with many forms of Protestantism and many people don't like the Pope here. I would venture and say many people are converting to Orthodox Christianity and many more will convert as they discover more of the beauty that is Orthodoxy.

[@evans3922]

@@curlyfro97 Orthodoxy is the best kept secret for the Western christians who feel empty with their denomiations...Because Orthodoxy is the real Church of Christ its healing effect is immediately sensed by the new comers from the very first moment...it heals the whole man,by cleaning,enligheting and unifying the believer with Christ. according to Holy Fathers tradition

[@eetuerrenor5757]

@@curlyfro97 Thanks, brother, may God be with you.

[@dmy_tro]

It's a youtube bubble. It recommends you what you're interested in not what everyone else likes

[@ArmwrestlingJoe]

I’ve been struggling with life and faith recently. Pray I find the truth

[@GospelSimplicity]

I’d be happy to Joe

[@mattbellacotti]

I’ve been there friend. There is a book called ‘Know the Faith’ by Fr Michael Shanbur. I believe it can be bought off amazon. It’s publish by Ancient Faith.

[@ArmwrestlingJoe]

@@GospelSimplicity appreciate it!

[@quayscenes]

Blessings to you. I have struggled myself and sometimes struggle still. In your quest for truth, always remember the simple axiom attributed to Saint Augustine, "All truth is God's truth". In dealing with doubt, remember the man who said to Jesus, "Lord, I believe, help my unbelief." If we had no doubt, faith would not be necessary. We all have much to learn. Be at peace.

[@linyenchin6773]

@@ArmwrestlingJoe the truth isn't finite but absolute = can't be losy. What is lost isn't truth but your mind, under strain~leadership of emotion as your master. Satan guides us when we place our emotions(and the imagination they stimulate) as our master~God. Calm dow, *Be Stil and Know,* just as it is written in the bible.

[@danielgaley9676]

The desire of my heart is to be Orthodox. Wife Cathy is a negative. Prayers appreciated. Thanks to all!

[@clo8862]

I like orthodoxy i stand with them and their views on christianity however my wife is raised protestant and dislikes anything that looks ancient or foreign to her and likes the modernity of non denominational churches . She doesnt yet feel comfortable to anything as foreign as Eastern Orthodoxy .

[@Cteabis]

Pray for her, live the Orthodox life out around her without trying to convince her. Let your sincerity and love of God be a silent blessing to her and just let the Lord work things out for you. Obviously also speak to a good priest about this

[@djnv4702]

🙏🏼

[@cozycastle]

The man is head of the house. Prayers to you

[@MrCshowbread]

I actually really love these kinds of interviews. Even though I'm Orthodox, I feel like I always learn something new about my faith.

[@GospelSimplicity]

Glad to hear that!

[@icxcnikasrb]

Thinking about the people who are yet to discover an Orthodox Church, and what they have to go through. Being born and raised in Serbia, which is an orthodox Christian country I feel like I sometimes take it for granted and when I see what people are going through just to discover it I really feel ashamed. But knowing that The Lord said ‘who knows more will be more responsible’ just have much more sense now.

[@enjoyingthecrisis5931]

I'm an ethnic Russian with Mormon parents. It's so strange when I discuss my conversion back to the Mother Church with my father. I think he feels anger, when all I feel is pain and fear for his soul. I think he feels I left as a means of rebellion, when I left to find God's true church, and I speak about our beliefs not to mock his own, but to tell him the truth.

[@mapa6772]

For all the talk about ethnocentricity, an Orthodox can walk into any Orthodox Church in any place of the World and knows what is being said at any moment of the liturgy and can share in the prayer in their heart and can participate, no matter what language is being spoken.

[@GospelSimplicity]

Good point

[@bloomonlinewithruth]

It is the same in Catholic churches but not the protestant churches.

[@100AD]

A Russian monk told me he feels bad in Romanian basilikas

[@andreialexandrunichiforel]

@@100AD for what reason exactly?

[@100AD]

@@andreialexandrunichiforel He said, his inside tells him that it is abomination. That's why I think you should not idealize your denomination... We should keep the Teaching of the 1st century

[@vinnylc]

I was Life long protestant that is now a catechumen of the orthodox church ☦️

[@RUfrikkinkiddinME]

This guy makes a lot of sense. I see that watering down of who were called to be as Christians all around me.

[@GospelSimplicity]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@lupinthe4th400]

EDIT: Please note that all Eastern Orthodox Churches are one and the same - together they constitute the one Holy Catholic and Apostolic Church. Byzantines St. Kyril and St. Methodius who spread Orthodox Christianity to the Slavs created their unique language and chants. The Greeks decided to make it a lit bit different in the Slav church, respecting their civilization. But all the Orthodox Churches - which come from the 4 ancient Patriarchates - are one. I gladly attend the liturgy in any Orthodox Church, regardless if it is Greek, Russian, Serbian, Romanian, Japanese, etc. It doesn't matter. I know they are all one and the same. Sure, there are troubles inside the Orthodox Church, but we should distinguish between the social impact of a view, and the view itself. I say this because some people may think differently.

[@evans3922]

Very well said.. Τhis is true

[@GospelSimplicity]

Thanks for that! It can be confusing from the outside, and I've noticed that many Catholics seem to insinuate there is much more division in the Orthodox church

[@lupinthe4th400]

@@GospelSimplicity I am happy when visiting other Orthodox churches in the world, especially because I can feel the same Holy Spirit in the Church and the people. I don't even mind if some bishops argue with eachother. That happened, happens and will happen till the end of time, no one is perfect, so it is possible such events might occur. We attend Church to receive the body and blood of Christ and should pay no attention to other worldy matters. Otherwise it is like saying, "I am Orthodox because I like the administration of the Church"... Social impact is simply irrelevant to whether a view is valid or not. I would encourage people who are interested in Orthodoxy to just enter their nearest church with no doubt or fear. They will feel familiar in no time. Especially if the church is empty at that time. My brother and I, whenever we travel abroad, Orthodox churches are like our checkpoints 😉

[@ekaterina5]

Not exactly correct. They translated the chants and other texts to so called church Slavonic which is common for many Slavic people. And they created Slavonic alphabet so called Cyrillic based on Greek letters. This alphabet is also used by many Slavic people (in Russia, Belorussia, Ukraine, Bulgaria, Serbia ets). And of course with time (more than 1000 years upto now) some not so essential differences came. But you are correct the Spirit in the churches is the same :)

[@lupinthe4th400]

@@ekaterina5 thank you Ekaterina for the info. I shouldn't have said Russian, but Cyrillic alphabet for Slavs. I am glad you read and corrected my comment, for I am no expert in this field :)

[@kellyanna94]

Orthodox convert here. Been in it for a year and now can't imagine going back to anything else!

[@trevorwright2]

You are bringing Orthodoxy to so many people! You must be a Protestant. Preaching the Gospel! Great video!!

[@GospelSimplicity]

haha, the irony of a Protestant bringing Orthodoxy to many is not lost on me. Glad you enjoyed it!

[@normalbuerger]

I guess his faith can tolerate that, and he is indeed making the impression of a friendly and interested young man :-)

[@ReformedSooner24]

I don’t believe there’s any true incompatibility between the views of Orthodox and the views of Protestant. The difference is that Orthodox does some things and some traditions Protestant’s wouldn’t say are biblical but they’re also not anti-biblical or heretical. Just....different. Unnecessary is probably the word most Protestants would use. I for one see the value in the traditional, Orthodox way of doing things and also the value in the Protestant way of doing things. EDIT: ok actually Orthodoxy has some serious things I cannot agree with.

[@nekntit3499]

@@ReformedSooner24 yeah views on the lord's supper are different as well as baptism and saints. But the orthodox are right if you study into it.

[@krown1188]

@@ReformedSooner24but calling a man father, teacher, or priest is directly against Biblical teaching, and for someone to want others to call them that is deeply blasphemous.

[@quantumflux9927]

You need to check out the videos about our Patriarch Pavle. He was (and still) so much loved by the Serbian people. He will never be forgotten... A living saint, I hope he will be canonized soon And thank you for these videos! I am happy that you are interested in other Christian faiths and that you respect them all. 😎

[@GospelSimplicity]

Thanks! I think my friend Bojan just put one out.

[@milica7522]

I can't wait for the canonisation too. I have a big picture of him fraimed in my house. He can calm me down just by looking at him And there is that thing when they prepared my dad for surgery, a man came to him and offered him a book about our dearest Pavle. My dad took it, looked at his picture on the cover, asked him for intersetion and just before the surgery, they did another scan and there wasnt anything left to operate. It didn't came back since. ( that was about 3 years ago) P.S. Pavle visited my sisters school and was prepared to go during recess (mali odmor). There was a huge racket, noise in the hallway. When he came trough the door, kids aligned themselves on both ends, kept quiet and stood in peace when he walked trough. On his way out, Pavle blessed them. Its not a miracle per se but try walking trough serbian school hallway on a break and you'll see the difference. No grown up told them what to do. What is it except holy spirit shining trough him. I love him so much.

[@quantumflux9927]

@@milica7522 Хвала ти на занимљивој причи. Довољно је да погледам његов благи лик и одмах ми је лакше и испуним се неописивом радошћу. Драго ми је што сам била сведок његовог светог живота. Дао нам је пример какви треба да тежимо да будемо. Заувек омиљени и никад заборављен 💟

[@milica7522]

@@quantumflux9927 upravo tako ❤🕯☦💒

[@TheFeralcatz]

I enjoyed this priests personal backstory. You are a good interviewer God bless ☦️

[@GospelSimplicity]

I did too! Thanks!

[@uofc57]

Fr. John is totally right about any Orthodox church feeling like home to an Orthodox Christian. When I studied Arabic in the Middle East, being able to attend Divine Liturgy did so much to keep me from feeling too homesick.

[@GospelSimplicity]

That’s great!

[@AB-yv7oo]

I am truly happy that more and more people find out about Orthodoxy and join the Church everywhere. Seems Orthodoxy is doing very well in the US. Thank you for the interview, Austin. I sincerely hope you will become an Orthodox one day.

[@GospelSimplicity]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@100AD]

Do you think, that Orthodoxy needs reformation and return to the teaching of the 1st century? Why they draw the Father and pray to people (after getting paid) here in Eastern Europe? Why do they say, that the Catholics made them draw the Father? This Sunday I was in both assmblies: Hundreds of Orths kneel down in front of hundreds of images and ask for help.

[@y005ca2]

@@100AD other then the fact that I got a stroke trying to understand this reply ; you claim to know “early text” yet you have no knowledge about the second council of Nicaea 😂😂😂 it clearly says that icons should be given timētikē proskynēsis (meaning "respect and veneration") and that God alone should be given worship Here is an excerpt : “This definition of the proper religious veneration of images centers on the distinction between timētikē proskynēsis, meaning "respect and veneration" (though note that 'proskynesis' was also used of the worship of God), and "alēthinē latreia", meaning "true adoration." The former is permitted to images as to the person they depict, while the latter, "latreia", is reserved for God -- the three persons of the Trinity, including Christ's human nature.” And the link to it : en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Second_Council_of_Nicaea I ain’t even religious but what you said was just cringe 🤡 P.S.: nah reformation means to innovate which Orthodox will never let happen and kneeling is a sign of respect which prove you have absolutely no knowledge of what you are taking about

[@100AD]

@@y005ca2 1. “early texts” refers to 1-2 AD. As close to the Apostles, as possible. 2. Orths ask the spirits of the deceased for light and salvation, not just give respect. They even call Mary the only Intercessor... 3. What is meant by "veneration"? The word comes from the name of a Pagan deity? " It is Christ who died, and furthermore is also risen, who is even at the right hand of God, who also makes intercession for us... " Epistle to the Romans

[@LadyMaria]

@@100AD We only ask God for salvation. We do not call Mother Mary the only intercessor. Outright lies.

[@daysihall8569]

Really looking forward to seeing this video. My husband and I have been inquiring Orthodoxy since the start of the pandemic and we have already decided we can’t go back to our old non-denominational church after learning this much. There is so much fullness in this practice and I have felt more close to God than ever before. I grew up Catholic, converted into some Pentecostal church at a young age, searched for God in various other churches for a while until I found our home church (non-deno). We were led to start learning about church history and really just being more intentional about praying and reading the Bible. Then it just happened so organically that we started watching Divine Liturgy online for weeks before actually attending an Orthodox Church. We are hoping to become Catechumens in December. Please continue to explore Orthodoxy and sharing more videos about it. :)

[@GospelSimplicity]

Hope you enjoy it! I appreciate you sharing some of your journey. I'm sure that's been quite the experience thus far. Prayers for you all as you navigate this. God bless!

[@notarobot2161]

Hi, Daysi. Where are you all at? My husband and I had the same experience and became Orthodox. We’re at St. Seraphim cathedral (OCA) in Dallas now where he’s a deacon, but we’re from Chicago originally.

[@arachel93]

Same here! There’s so much coherence in thought in orthodox theology compared to my Protestant/charismatic upbringing. So much beauty and redemption of the physical (candles icons holy water physical gestures like the sign of the cross)

[@daysihall8569]

@@notarobot2161 Hi! We are from Edinburg, TX which is about 9 hours south of Dallas. We started attending St. George the Great Martyr in Pharr. I’ve actually been wanting to go visit St. Seraphim! Father Gerasim came down to St. George and that was our first vespers experience with a priest.

[@forevermore6065]

My husband and I became orthodox in July! We were Protestant before. We were fortunate to be able to attend the Devine liturgy normally before COVID hit but sadly missed out on Pascha. What a journey so far! Glad to hear you’re planning on becoming catechumens. Hopefully you will have an opportunity to watch the “journey to fullness” series by Father Barnabas Powell. Soooo good for inquirers. Helped us immensely.

[@writingreverend]

I converted from a non-denomination and haven’t looked back since! Too many gifts that the Church offers that you simply can’t get anywhere else. We’re just more charismatic in its purest definition.

[@GospelSimplicity]

Thanks for sharing!

[@evanhi450]

Orthodoxy is Amazing

[@100AD]

Do you think, that Orthodoxy needs reformation and return to the teaching of the 1st century? This Sunday I was in both assmblies: Hundreds of Orths kneel down in front of hundreds of images and ask for help...

[@aaronjones2815]

@@100AD Orthodoxy is the Church of the 1st century

[@100AD]

@@aaronjones2815 ​They prayed in Spirit. And they prayed to the Creator. Could we talk on FB or Skype?

[@danieleriksen1130]

I became Orthodox along with about 25+ other students in Boston in the 1980's. We were all converts from many backgrounds; Roman Catholic, Protestant, agnostic, atheist, Jewish, etc. We had a charismatic Priest Monk as our priest and basically filled a dying old Russian (OCA) parish with new young people. It was a close and vibrant community. Back then, few Orthodox books were in English (or any Western European language) yet. Now, thousands of books and thousands more converts are pouring into the Churches. Even the Canadian psychologist, Jordan Peterson is 'accidentally' (!?) sending people to Orthodoxy. A couple was just baptized here who were Peterson fans just last year. Orthodoxy is, as was said, the 'biggest secret in America'. But totally accessible for those who desire to see it.

[@jervingerzon9400]

"they radiate love" words to live by

[@GospelSimplicity]

Amen

[@anddreee]

Wonderfull story from priest. Greetings from Orthodox Serbia 🇷🇸🇺🇸☦️

[@GospelSimplicity]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@lindaS_]

"orthodox" criminal Serbia! Where many times the church "blessed" a bloody expansionist and very deceitful political agenda! A clean mask for dirty political games! SHAME!

[@anddreee]

@@lindaS_ And then there is "albanian orthodox" who had destroyed Serbian heritage in Albania and in Kosovo and Metohia region !

[@anddreee]

@@lindaS_ can you then name a few of them ,we want to know

[@volnadr]

I really started enjoying your videos, mainly due to the impartiality they are presented. I am an orthodox born Christian who went through years of struggle in faith after losing my heart and embracing rationality..however after years of research and bouncing from an extreme to another I have returned to the True Faith paradoxically through the same logic I was lost in the first place but combining it with my heart. As I see you are so thirsty of theological knowledge please read Fr Sophrony of Essex theology, one of the greatest Saints of this century, his experience of God it is truly amazing!! I can now say very convinced wow there is something so deep about orthodoxy that cannot be explained, only felt!

[@GospelSimplicity]

Thank you so much for the kind words and recommendation!

[@Soundofmusic777]

It can be explained, only not in rationalistic, but in noetic terms.

[@pimpompoom93726]

I like the oriental rugs on the wooden floor, that provides comfort when you stand for services. And it's appealing from visual perspective. I'm Greek Orthodox and I find the decor of this Church very appealing.

[@GospelSimplicity]

It's a nice aesthetic

[@jonw8847]

Dude, this is amazing. A few years ago I went to a church camp in Colorado where Fr. John and some members of his family were present- he was our keynote speaker. He had a lot of amazing insight and he was able to explain orthodoxy to both people who are new to it, as well as people who were born into it like I was. I always learn something new from your videos, and seeing a different perspective on the church is something I don't normally get seeing as my dad is a priest as well. Thanks so much for doing this!

[@GospelSimplicity]

That's so cool to hear! I've really enjoyed getting to learn from him. God bless!

[@jk_33333]

Such a great interview, glory to God! Orthodoxy is really the worlds best kept secret, glad people like you are opening it up to people.

[@GospelSimplicity]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@icxcnikasrb]

Wow what a story. God bless you father. Greetings from Belgrade ☦️🇷🇸

[@GospelSimplicity]

Amen

[@TTellKey]

Matthew 23:9 "And call no one your father on the earth; for One is your Father, who is in heaven."

[@icxcnikasrb]

@@TTellKey We orthodox Christian do call our priests and monks fathers. It is not The Father, just father. We do not interpret the Bible by ourselves and don’t take it literally. Our Saints did it for us with help of The Holy Spirit.

[@MrCoachdunham]

@Gospel Simplicity-As an Orthodox Christian, I appreciate that you choose to examine Orthodoxy from it's sources (interviews with Orthodox priests, touring a Church) and I hope to see more! You have one of the best channels on KZbin and I enjoy watching. Keep up the good work!

[@GospelSimplicity]

My pleasure! Glad you're enjoying the channel!

[@jg7923]

This is going to be great.

[@GospelSimplicity]

Hope you enjoy it!

[@МатвейКасс]

Austin, this was a joy to watch and listen to. Fr. John was a great choice, he described and expressed Orthodoxy is a faithful and loving way. I really value your curious, kind and respectful tone, and how the entire conversation was, I would say, loving. This is the way to speak about God! I look forward to following your channel.

[@GospelSimplicity]

Thank you so much!

[@lindafernandez3905]

I love the way he interview the priest... beautiful...

[@davidpope2189]

Austin, there's your invitation. Fr. Baker, on his journey to the priesthood: "If I can do that for somebody else. . . ." Get married to that lovely young lady that you have in your life and become an Orthodox priest. You would be EXCELLENT! 😍😇 Praise the Lord!

[@GospelSimplicity]

Thank you so much

[@davidpope2189]

@@GospelSimplicity , as always Austin, you're very welcome. ☺️

[@Clarinetboy82]

Archbishop Paul is my bishop too! A very wonderful soft spoken man. I've had the pleasure of serving with him a couple of times when he came to my church. ~Rdr. Matthew

[@GospelSimplicity]

That's wonderful!

[@tinapassis]

I went to confession with Father John! Blessed

[@alexandragonzalez8333]

My favorite part of the interview was his personal story at the end. Glory be to God for all things!

[@GospelSimplicity]

I loved that part too!

[@dxndxn8441]

Great interview so far! Great work as usual, Austin. Being in Chicago, I want to recommend checking out Mar Gewargis Cathedral of the Assyrian Church of the East. You have had Catholics and Orthodox covered but the Assyrians are as ancient and still generally forgotten.

[@GospelSimplicity]

I'd love to check it out! I'm actually home on break now, but I'll put it on the list for next semester!

[@nuzzi6620]

@@GospelSimplicity This is a great recommendation! You’ve covered Catholics and Orthodox; the Church of the East (the one that isn’t in communion with Rome) would be the most interesting (and just as ancient) tradition of Christianity you could cover! There aren’t a whole lot of those churches in this part of the world, so having a cathedral in your city is just perfect, and a trip there would enlighten all of us about a tradition that is, as the original commenter noted, generally forgotten.

[@mamafortuin]

Austin, another wonderful video. Thank you for sharing Orthodoxy with your audience. 🙏☦️❤️

[@GospelSimplicity]

My pleasure!

[@user-di5rm9ee1p]

This is very good priest. [I am Serb]

[@GospelSimplicity]

Indeed

[@linyenchin6773]

None but God is good.

[@j.s.m1642]

Hey, Great video and great series! Im currently a catechumen, trying to learn more so this is helpful, especially coming from a background of mostly evangelical non-denominational churches. Again, great video and great series! Christ in our midst!

[@GospelSimplicity]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@lydianboy6874]

Hello Austin. Thank you very much for your work! I'm sure there is a lot of effort behind all of this, and I just wanted to show my appreciation. I think that reaching out to people and having conversations in which they explain their views (and not feeling that yours are threatened in the process) is not just "the correct mindset", but it is an act of intellectual and emotional honesty, given that people tend to be very closed when it comes to religious conversations. I might not need to say this, but it speaks of a very healthy and mature character for someone in his early 20s. Furthermore, I think this adds tremendous value in the sense that it's "refreshing" in a time when people don't want to have their beliefs challenged in the slightest. Keep it up! I've learned a lot from you recently.

[@GospelSimplicity]

Thank you so much! I really appreciate that!

[@thenordicchad4030]

Great interview. Amazing beard!

[@GospelSimplicity]

Right?

[@adambenedict6155]

Hello Austin, I am a 46-year-old man who lives right here in Illinois. I have been married for nearly 25 years . I have three children - two of them are in your age bracket. First, excellent job on covering the The Orthodox Church. I have been on a journey as well exploring the Orthodox Church. I very much appreciate your demeanor, even-handed style, and humility. I realize you are a student at MBI, but should you want a deeper examination of how the Orthodox Church reads and understands Holy Scripture, take a look at Dr. Jeannie Constantinou’s work at the University of San Diego. She also has a podcast series on AFR. Once, again great job. I have listened/watched three of your programs! 😎 - Adam in Peoria, IL

[@GospelSimplicity]

Glad you're enjoying the videos! Thanks for the recommendation!

[@greenhaven-podcast]

Agreed. She has been interviewed twice in the past week as well about her new book, which I've already ordered and can't wait to read!

[@thebonesofelisha9115]

Matushka Jeannie is a great teacher and defender of the faith. ☦️

[@mariastefani1772]

Thank you for a comprehensive interview! That's one amazing church in the background you've got there.

[@GospelSimplicity]

My pleasure!

[@dimitrilalushi4693]

What a heart warming, nice interview! A truly Christian interview! Thanks!

[@hannanfarah4676]

Prays and blessings from orthodox Lebanon 🇱🇧🙏✝️

[@GospelSimplicity]

Thanks!

[@TheByzAmericanWizard]

This is a beautiful Orthodox Church. Priest is also very well spoken. As a former Nondenominational evangelical. I was very lost when it came to scripture and theology. For there wasn't any basis for such things. Then even being told that the thing I believed most (sola scriptura) was built on straw, not biblical and even yet the kjv was missing books. It convinced me to look to Orthodoxy. I haven't looked back since. Orthodoxy is my life now. Glory to God for showing me His most beautiful Church that He gave to us. May you also be able to learn from Orthodoxy and possibly convert.

[@GospelSimplicity]

Thanks for sharing your story!

[@Илија-д1в]

@J DV You make this same reply almost identically on every comment, yet have not once given any evidence to back this claim. Scripture itself rejects your claim, and rejects “sola scriptura” completely. It’s clear that the scripture instructs all believers to hold to and follow the traditions as passed down by the apostles, which coincidentally, is exactly what the Orthodox Church does, and has been doing for 2000 years. The apostles and church fathers could walk into an orthodox liturgy today and feel completely at home. There’s not a single verse or sentence in the entire scripture that supports any form of your heretical/Protestant doctrine. Your argument has been used by many heretics throughout the years long before the “reformation”, and has been refuted and confirmed as heresy each and every time.

[@GrislyAtoms12]

Blessed be the name of the Lord. That was such a beautiful interview, ESPECIALLY at the end! Father Baker's recounting of his path to the priesthood is so inspiring!

[@GospelSimplicity]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@TTellKey]

Matthew 23:9 "And call no one your father on the earth; for One is your Father, who is in heaven."

[@nemanjaaaaaa]

I love to see how orthodoxy is spreading around the US. As an young man, I'm joyful to see that an young american man is interested in faith. It would be good if you can come one day to some of old traditional Orthodox country, to visit monasteries and to see Elders and etc. That would be great experiance to you and in the same time to others who are watching your chanel. Greetings from Serbia brother

[@FaithEncouragedTV]

Great interview and even-handed. Thanks for giving father the opportunity to share his story. As a former Pentecostal pastor, now Orthodox, I saw a lot of my own story in his. Good strength.

[@GospelSimplicity]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@Onyx_eye_records]

I attended Sunday liturgy here when I was stationed at Great Lakes Naval Training center in mid-2016. He’s a wonderful priest! I remember grabbing one of the free booklets, “Orthodoxy: Catholicism without additions - Protestantism without subtractions.” It was 3 years later in 2019 that I left my Protestant roots and entered the Orthodox faith :)

[@GospelSimplicity]

What a title! Glad you got to visit.

[@peteroleary9447]

Can't wait! One of your videos found its way into my recommended, and I liked your treatment of Orthodoxy from a Protestant perspective. I was ready to suggest taking a walk up LaSalle and dropping in on Fr John and then I see this premiere on your channel. This is the way to understand Orthodoxy - experiential and in communion, and ultimately through the Divine Liturgy, which is the true expression of Orthodox theology.

[@GospelSimplicity]

Hope you enjoy it!

[@ivansince91]

May God bless this priest and you for sharing the true faith.

[@GospelSimplicity]

Thank you

[@dougwigginton3983]

The true faith? What does that mean?

[@ivansince91]

@@dougwigginton3983 there is only one truth and that is in the orthodox Christian teachings. Apologies my english is not the best, take care.

[@neshrosuryoyo]

I recently decided to convert to Oriental Orthodoxy from Catholicism. Watched many videos among them your videos Austin. I discovered that Orthodoxy maintains the traditional original faith. Thanks Austin for changing my life.

[@GospelSimplicity]

Wow, it's humbling to have played even a small part in the story that God is writing with your life. May your journey include an ever-deepening love for God and neighbor. God bless

[@lupinthe4th400]

I don't know if you are aware, but Oriental Orthodoxy is not in accordance with the Eastern Orthodox teaching. The Church you saw in the video is not in communion with the Oriental church, which seperated herself from the Church of Christ in the 5th-6th centuries. Both the church of the east and the five non-chalchedonian churches, that constitute the Oriental church, were condemned by the Holy Ecumenical Synod. That being said, there is hope nowadays that the Oriental church may retun again to the Church of Christ.

[@neshrosuryoyo]

@@lupinthe4th400 i am aware. What i meant is that Orthodoxy led me to reconsider Catholisim. I read about the Eastern and Oriental and what happened after Chalcedon in 451. Did my research well. They Orientals were misunderstood due to lingual, cultural and other reasons that need more clarifications. However, i felt closer to Orientals who do celebrate the 7 sacraments and abide to the original creed. It remains a personal journey which is adding value and knowledge to my life.

[@lupinthe4th400]

@@neshrosuryoyo ok my friend. May God shows us the way!

[@patc6146]

pope franics is insane woke, supports BLM, climate change, ending capitalism

[@reesescuptn]

I really enjoyed this. Thank you for doing this!

[@GospelSimplicity]

My pleasure!

[@michaelkemp7644]

Another beautiful interview Austin. Fr John, being a priest in the OCA, seems very traditional in his manner. I do so appreciate this. It's not unusual within the OCA to have some level of modernity present...

[@GospelSimplicity]

Thanks!

[@MikeM-cz5ln]

@@GospelSimplicity Austin your blog is wonderful! I am Roman Catholic and I had an opportunity to dialogue with a Russian Orthodox priest. I got to ask him a question that I had always wondered about how they would answer. "If your Church is guided by the Holy Spirit then why have your doctrines changed? For instance, contraception was always considered to be mortal sin and the Orthodox Church changed that along with all the Protestants. Keep in mind that some forms of contraception can act as an abortifacient. Did the Orthodox Church abandon the truth for a lie?" He replied "You got me." His answer caught me by surprise since I often wondered if they had a better reply to this question. I was surprised because externally, they beautifully hold onto their ancient traditions.

[@grigoriitorkel2485]

@@MikeM-cz5ln The doctrines of the Orthodox Church have never changed. As far as I know, in the Orthodox Church we do not make a distinction between mortal and regular sin, especially in regards to the consequences of one or the other. The position of the Orthodox Church on contraceptives has never changed. It is considered sinful because it goes against nature as instituted by God; it prevents the formation of new life. Thus, sexual intercourse becomes only an exercise of the passions and not an act made sacred by God under the union of husband and wife to serve this union. As for abortion - it is considered an ever graver sin than murder.

[@grigoriitorkel2485]

@@MikeM-cz5ln In addition, the Orthodox Church would never abandon truth, for by abandoning the Truth we would abandon Christ Himself and thus the true Church also!

[@MikeM-cz5ln]

@@grigoriitorkel2485 Are you saying that contraception (within marriage) is not condemned in the Orthodox Church? The priest I talked with did not disagree when I stated that contraception is permissible. What was once a moraly absolute evil and sin has now become - in our day and age - permissible. I believe the Orthodox teaching on divorce and remarriage has also changed. It is now permitted (not encouraged) to divorce and remarry up to 3 times.

[@mixahl4923]

I look forward to this. There are many strange misconceptions about Orthodoxy. Let's pray that they are cleared up! Particularly the 'praying to Saints' part.

[@GospelSimplicity]

Hope you enjoy it!

[@berlingolingoful]

What a great testimony by Father regarding how he came to the priesthood. ☦💜

[@minawoniannous4960]

Thank you for your invaluable content. God bless you, brother.

[@GospelSimplicity]

My pleasure!

[@edwardmason119]

I was raised Lutheran and I love interviews like this and others with respectful conversation, It's reflected in the comments too. Great interview. :)

[@GospelSimplicity]

Glad to hear it!

[@edwardmason119]

@@GospelSimplicity Anytime. God bless.

[@Samuel-ge7im]

Can’t wait to watch this, i love these kind of interviews.

[@GospelSimplicity]

Hope you enjoy it!

[@MuhammadsMohel]

I was an atheist since I was a kid and after drawing near and experiencing The Christ and reading the gospels and applying it, the way a martial artist understands the walk to the cage and lives out the lifestyle where as the armchair critic, bench-warmer or trial class dropout only talks the talk. I attend a Nazarene church, not a member but needed somewhere to go, these Orthodox interviews are really opening my eyes to a Christianity that doesn't feel like a Sunday morning show and dance.

[@FearNoGrave]

Great interview. God bless!

[@GospelSimplicity]

Thanks!

[@gregoryadair3223]

Thank you for these great interviews. Your sincerity and humility are very refreshing, and your experience is clearly a genuine one.

[@GospelSimplicity]

It’s my pleasure!

[@spozzkon]

Amazing videos! You're doing an amazing job. Thank you for your content!

[@GospelSimplicity]

My pleasure!

[@siewtohong7138]

I’ve been watching your videos as I’m a new Orthodox cathehumen at this point and going through catechism classes in preparation for baptism next year. You speak eloquently and you have a great screen presence! Even though your videos were done quite some time ago, they remain evergreen and relevant. I hope you continue to do the good work that you’ve done! I’m currently attending The Greek Orthodox Church in Singapore. Thanks for doing what you do. It’s been very enlightening for me. May the Holy Spirit continue to guide you and bless you

[@vesnastihovic7014]

Such a great production of the video, among other things. 😊

[@GospelSimplicity]

Thanks! Shoutout to my friend Luke Kegeris for filming!

[@vesnastihovic7014]

@@GospelSimplicity I can't believe you're 21 Austin. You really do have a great passion for people at such a young age. Thank you for doing the wonderful work. 💓💓💓

[@GospelSimplicity]

@@vesnastihovic7014 thank you so much!

[@greenhaven-podcast]

@@vesnastihovic7014 Amen! Totally agree!!

[@LastEarBender]

magnificent beard

[@Ortholocks]

It is important to note that yes we are in communion with one another, but it is also the same liturgy being served. The same gospel readings. Same epistle. Save a few calendar details between some of the dioceses. But st Paul would be able to walk into our services today and recognize the service and where we are in the service even if the language differs between them.

[@GospelSimplicity]

thanks!

[@maxinehall572]

A timeless, otherworldly experience. One Unity in Faith and Worship.

[@redtrainsbrownboots3108]

wow that story was just beautiful. great video :)

[@GospelSimplicity]

Right? So glad he shared it!

[@redtrainsbrownboots3108]

@@GospelSimplicity haha I'm really glad too!

[@anastasiadare9231]

Glory to God. Jesus guide us all. May the Gospel of Christ spill out into the streets. AMEN. Austin as im listening to this at 2.30 im the afternoon downunder and editing my comment you confirm my editing!!!! Austin God bless your efforts since as ive shared before my Orthodox people are not hearing the Good News since we still use ancient Greek in Australia. Austin God is unchanging but Worship is according to our knowledge understanding and expression.

[@GospelSimplicity]

Amen

[@thisonehasname4028]

Coming up on my one year anniversary of being Chrismated! Went up last year for the feast of the ascension to holy Trinity where archbishop paul is and we visited the place your at in this video and met this priest, super cool dude! There's no accidents or coincidences, just remember that when you're thinking about these interviews and such!

[@GospelSimplicity]

Fr. John is wonderful

[@peepeepoopopolous2288]

Amazing interview! Ive seen a couple interviews now of Protestants touring Orthodox churches and talking to priests and its amazing how respectful everybody is especially when there are moments you might want to say "No that's wrong" due to differences in beliefs. Awesome stuff!

[@GospelSimplicity]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@prometheusjones6580]

Great interview! If you're interested in interviewing another great Orthodox priest in Chicago, you should check out Fr. Patrick Reardon, who rectors All Saints, a few train stops north of Moody. He is a wealth of knowledge (I think he has a doctorate in scripture) and has a lot of great stories.

[@GospelSimplicity]

We're doing an interview in late January/Early February!

[@СрђанКандић]

I am an Orthodox from Serbia, Europe... Orthodox countries: Serbia, Bulgaria, Greece, Cyprus, Romania, Russia, Belaruss, Montenegro, Ukraine, Bosnia(1/2), Albania(1/3), Moldova, Estonia(1/2)... Austria-about a milion... Countries with Orthodox Christians: Germany, Switzerland, Sweden, Finland, Poland...etc... 🇷🇸🇷🇸🇷🇸✝️✝️✝️

[@Ssilki_V_Profile]

For from the rising of the sun even unto the going down of the same my name shall be great among the Gentiles; and in every place incense shall be offered unto my name, and a pure offering: for my name shall be great among the heathen, saith the LORD of hosts. Mal. 1: 11

[@Ssilki_V_Profile]

Through the tender mercy of our God; whereby the dayspring from on high hath visited us, Lk 1:78 Saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his STAR IN THE EAST, and are come to worship him. Mt 2:2

[@zachtrix8428]

Beautiful interview. Glory to God!

[@GospelSimplicity]

Thanks! Amen

[@pjotrivancov4722]

God bless you for this video, you just helped truth to be heard, and people to be saved, you made a small miracle and the reward will come. All the best, and keep the good work, i hope you will come to Serbia, you will discover and meet some living saints, sorry for my bad english, and many thanks

[@GospelSimplicity]

Thanks!

[@IndianaDawn]

Love this - very informative and wow, lovely setting!

[@GospelSimplicity]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@gabii8245]

I see this video tomorrow because i'm orthodox.

[@GospelSimplicity]

Hope you enjoy it!

[@greenhaven-podcast]

His story at the end was worth the whole thing! ❤️☦️😊

[@GospelSimplicity]

I LOVED that part

[@greenhaven-podcast]

@@GospelSimplicity hearing people's stories is one of my favorite things about Orthodoxy! I was just interviewed on "Everyday Orthodox" and it aired last Sunday. The reason I was even willing to do it - aside from getting a blessing from my priest - was because how much people's stories and videos like this had to do with my becoming Orthodox! They let me know I wasn't alone.

[@evans3922]

@@greenhaven-podcast God bless you brother

[@valeriamilas518]

I am Romanian orthodox living here around Chicago I appreciate this interview to others cristian people learn about orthodoxy

[@GospelSimplicity]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@nectanbo]

Amazing and very insightful! Would it be possible to get an interview with a Coptic Orthodox priest or Bishop?

[@GospelSimplicity]

Thanks! I'd be open to it

[@jterrellielli7058]

Another wonderful video. Ahhhh. I love the Church.

[@GospelSimplicity]

Thanks!

[@trevorbinning4683]

Wonderful interview. In light of the upcoming interviews regarding Papal Supremacy and the like, I would love to see interviews with Orthodox Priests/Apologists regarding the other side of the argument! I’m sure Fr. Andrew Damick or Fr. Josiah Trenham would be happy to do such :)

[@GospelSimplicity]

I've reached out to Fr. Damick, but unfortunately didn't get a response. I hope to do a video of that type at some point soon though

[@BlossomHomemaking]

Austin, this was a beautiful interview. Thank you.

[@GospelSimplicity]

My pleasure!

[@sejuanisupportonly7385]

Great interview. :) I am now really curious to actually see in action what you asked and how different the Greek Orthodox church and priest are.

[@GospelSimplicity]

That would be interesting!

[@Илија-д1в]

As an orthodox I really love these videos, especially this one in particular which gives a great insight for non orthodox and orthodox alike into the beliefs and practices of the Orthodox Church.

[@GospelSimplicity]

Glad to hear that!

[@giuseppelogiurato5718]

I think it's cool that anyone who wants to know the difference between Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox can just watch Austin's videos on those subjects, and they will immediately discern the difference. The contrast between St. Cantius and Christ the Saviour (and their priests) is so striking that no one could confuse the two, even without the question "what's the difference" being asked... Good job Austin!

[@GospelSimplicity]

Thank you so much! I hope people will see not only the differences but also the similarities. Ultimately, I hope they will help people take their next step in following Jesus. Praise God if any of that happens

[@giuseppelogiurato5718]

@@GospelSimplicityI agree; our similarities are just as worthy of examination as our differences. These videos are great at doing both, but for most Protestants (and many Catholics as well), their first question regarding RC vs. EOC is "what's the difference?”, and, imo, that is certainly one of the first things that anyone interested in either branch of Christianity should be aware of. Again, great job, and don't worry about crossing your legs, it's not like that rule is posted on the iconostasis or anything... Looking forward to your interview with the Monastic! ♥️😊👍

[@thereseerrigorcia4525]

@@GospelSimplicity It would be interesting to also visit a Eastern Rite Catholic church. They would look very much the same as the AOC. or other Orthodox Church depending on which liturgy was being celebrated.

[@Albanian_History]

Orthodox will be number one religon ☦️🇦🇱❤️❤️

[@ausilliam]

Protestant: Hello, do you have a moment to talk about our lord Jesus? Orthodox: *sure son what would you like to know*

[@Atomic419]

@J DV Jesus wasn’t a jew, he was a Hebrew. Not the same. There were 12 tribes. Jews represent the tribe of Judah. Jesus did not belong to the tribe of Judah. Therefore Jesus was not a Jew.

[@Atomic419]

@yours truly That’s assuming Joseph was his biological father. Do you believe Joseph was his father? If not, then Jesus is of the tribe of Levi, just like his biological mother Mary.

[@codyvandal2860]

@@Atomic419 So he would be from the royal line of David and also the priestly lineage of Aaron? But also after the Babylonian captivity didn't all the Israelites begin collectively referring to one another as Jews? Or because they lived in the southern kingdom of Judah?

[@virginiasanchez4614]

@@Atomic419 Mary came from David. Do what was David? From Judah, right?

[@Atomic419]

@@virginiasanchez4614 David’s lineage is irrelevant (I understand you did not bring up David. I’m only pointing this out) and there are scholars that argue Mary descended from the tribe of Levi, making Jesus a Levite as well. I understand there is disagreement, and so you may be right. I’m also aware of passages declaring Jesus to be the “Lion of Judah”. That aside, in your understanding was Jesus and the Pharisees who had him killed of the same tribe, or different? Also, what do you make of Jesus saying “Synagogue of Satan”? Which tribe was he referring to given that there’s only one religion which uses the term “synagogue?”

[@garyboulton7524]

Bro I just want to congratulate you and encourage you in what you're doing. Not only is your channel flourishing but it's happening for the right reasons, youre enlightening the world and us Christians to the different branches of Christianity. Hopefully it brings greater unity not division.

[@GospelSimplicity]

Thank you so much! That is my prayer

[@garyboulton7524]

@Metanoia I know

[@WeAreBullets]

speaking of "orthodox ethos", have you checked out Fr Peter Heers channel and podcast called "orthodox ethos"..? he would be great to speak with

[@GospelSimplicity]

I'm interviewing him next week!

[@jerome6193]

Amazing interview! Thanks for doing what you do.

[@GospelSimplicity]

Thanks for watching!

[@stefansavic4799]

Thank you very much for this video! Enjoyed it a lot. A young polite non-judgmental protestant putting effort in presenting such a serene priest in spite of the concrete jungle being home of his flock, it's a true spiritual feast! Има ли нас, браћо Срби? Ипак је ово интервју с једним православним чикашким парохом, наш је. :)

[@GospelSimplicity]

It’s my pleasure! Glad you enjoyed it!

[@stefansavic4799]

@@GospelSimplicity Keep up with good work, brother. You've got my sub and my attention. I like this video and I liked it here and shared on FB, and I'll tend to go through the previous content and share all the good stuff. Dialogue is one of the greatest values, especially in this day and age, a time of alienation, estrangement and opposition, a time of domination of requesting one own's right over respecting one own's commitments. I'm not advocating ecumenism, but we'd all be better off with slightly more patience and effort to listen and understand each other. I'm a Serbian Orthodox christian Serb from Serbia. Our position is special on the topic of religious diversity since we're the geographically most western Orthodox Patriarchy, located on the division line between Eastern and Western Rome, were having a close encounter with Islam for the past six centuries, and we've had an atheist society during the SFRY. Prior to the WWII we've had a strong and numerous Jewish community as well. Since the dawn of civilization, lower Danube and it's Balkanic inflows with the sunny and fertile plains along the rivers have been a melting pot of peoples. Cultural-linguistically and to the greatest extent ethnically, we've got brethren of all the Creeds and faiths in the country and the surrounding abroad. We're traditionally in dialogue, which sometimes flows peacefully and fruitfully, and sometimes strides into a debate and even into a bloodshed every once in awhile. We're dominantly Orthodox by declaration and willing to sacrifice for the creed, but in the less challenging times, our natural divergence blooms. We're usually portrayed unidimensional, good or evil, depending on the point of view and the cause of the narrative. In the past 30 years, we've been severely and unjustly labeled in the western collective imagery, partially due to our own flaws and sins, and partially due to the greater interests of the bigger powers. Every authentic non-judgmental effort to present Orthodoxy is highly appreciated, since by default it doesn't market its values aggressively, though a combat within a person for Christ is one of the most important practices of it, and the preservation of Orthodox ideals is also important, which has always made us wake and ready. We're portrayed militant more often than not, and I include the other Orthodox or post-Orthodox secular nations, such as our Russian brethren, but our struggle is mostly within. By trying to reveal, witness and discover Orthodoxy, Western world can gain a lot, especially in terms of peace with us, for we'll never go door to door, but always try hard to accept a guest as a brother. This video and alike are a great favor for us and the Western Christianity in all it's denominations and sects as well in the long run. Take care, brother, peace and love from Belgrade!

[@suje8032]

Ima nas

[@aleksakocijasevic6613]

Ту смо. :D

[@lian2057]

A very interesting interview, gave me a great insight into Orthodoxy. Thank you!

[@hellenicspirit9849]

Old priest has devoted his life to Christ and the other guy dresses in white clothing and drives around in a vehicle with bullet proof glass. Pope fears death and lives contrary to Christ. Reminds me of the story of Lazarus and the rich man...

[@nikehike]

Beautiful. Simply beautiful.

[@GospelSimplicity]

Thanks!

[@josephpack7315]

Does Austin realize how many people he is leading out of Protestantism and into Orthodoxy and/or Catholicism with these vids? It’s a good thing!

[@mickeystanic4750]

Catolicism should be the first religion to leave and last to join. Corporate and criminal for Centuries.

[@elizabethmac2720]

I love these type of videos really looking forward to it ☺️

[@GospelSimplicity]

Glad to hear that! Hope you enjoy it