Search Results for: Simplicity and Self-Sacrifice: Lessons from the Desert Fathers

Church History, Theology Thoughts, Vineyard Movement

Simplicity and Self-Sacrifice: Lessons from the Desert Fathers (Part 3 of 3)

In the intervening years between the time of the Desert Fathers (4th and 5th century C.E.) and today (21st century C.E.), many people have sought to incorporate the concepts promoted by the humble men and women of the desert. St. Augustine (354-430 C.E.), a notable materialistic playboy before his conversion to Christianity, was especially taken … Continue reading Simplicity and Self-Sacrifice: Lessons from the Desert Fathers (Part 3 of 3) →

Church History, Theology Thoughts

Simplicity and Self-Sacrifice: Lessons from the Desert Fathers (Part 2 of 3)

St. Anthony, the most famous of the Desert Fathers, was reported by St. Athanasius as teaching his follow sojourners not to pursue nor yearn for earthly possessions. Rather, followers of Jesus were to pursue “prudence, justice, temperance, courage, understanding, love, concern for the poor, faith in Christ, freedom from anger,” and “hospitality.” [1] These are … Continue reading Simplicity and Self-Sacrifice: Lessons from the Desert Fathers (Part 2 of 3) →

Church History, Theology Thoughts

Simplicity and Self-Sacrifice: Lessons from the Desert Fathers (Part 1 of 3)

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Philadelphia Archbishop Charles Chaput recently remarked that “Americans have never liked history” since the “past comes with obligations on the present, and the most cherished illusion of American life is that we can remake ourselves at will.”[1] This self-imposed historical amnesia causes the church to have an unhealthy “egocentric obsession with the present.”[2] Christianity, however, … Continue reading Simplicity and Self-Sacrifice: Lessons from the Desert Fathers (Part 1 of 3) →

Book Reviews, Theology Thoughts

“The Orthodox Way” by Bishop Kallistos Ware

I was first introduced to Kallistos Ware’s book The Orthodox Way on September 2, 2006 when it was given to me after a chance meeting with an Eastern Orthodox priest. This priest, whose name I do not know, gave me five books about the Eastern Orthodox Church after briefly taking to me in a hotel … Continue reading “The Orthodox Way” by Bishop Kallistos Ware →