Having an emotional connection to Jesus is a modern Protestant invention. The Eastern Christian tradition does not place the same value on logic (Aquinas) or emotions (pietism) as the West. In the Orthodox tradition, you can directly perceive and relate to Christ through the "nous" (the spiritual organ of perception). In order for the nous to function properly, it needs to be purified through prayer, fasting, works of mercy, regular consumption of the Body and Blood, and confession to a priest. The nous is like a dirty mirror than cannot reflect God's glory until it is cleaned.
Replies (5)
Wait....wtf? You're orthodox? I found bitcoin and naturally gravitated to orthodox. What is happening here?
Been following you 3 years. keep up the good work.
I converted to Orthodoxy a couple of years ago.
Coincidentally I recently discovered you and last week decided to sign up for your course at Bitcoin University.
Now I am Definitely going to! 😄
With respect - your approach is heavily
Logical. Are you gravitating towards Aquinas ?
Roman Catholicism takes a similar approach, only they call the nous the "soul". Christ is unclear on this IMO, but Paul makes the claim that that salvation is only through a truthful declaration (faith) that you believe Christ is your Lord. What "salvation is through" means is less clear, it's stated as a guarantee (at least in KJV) but it could also mean it's only the first step to unity with the Father. I do not believe salvation is obtained through the sacraments and good deeds, as this is works-only, but am of the belief (I Peter 2:9) that works and deeds are evidence of salvation and are not the means. Purification and an outpouring of holy spirit is obtained by quietly being present and one with the Father
That sounds like Alvin Plantinga's basic Christian belief
