I found this video (approx. 26 minutes) fascinating for a number of reasons. Father Chris Margaritis of the Assumption Greek Orthodox Cathedral in Denver, Colorado is interviewed (by Matt Whitman of the Ten Minute Bible Hour) and provides honest and very insightful answers as he explains his beliefs and why it is that he holds them.

It was indeed interesting to note the differences between the Greek Orthodox Church and the Roman Catholic Church when it comes to the architecture of a sanctuary and what each Church is seeking to communicate by that.

But what stands out for me is a clear understanding of what is lost when Sola Scriptura is dismissed out of hand. Because Father Margaritis believes that it is the Church that gave us God’s word, he believes the Church can do with the Bible exactly as it wishes – shaping it, rather than submitting to it. The consequences of this are very evident.

I believe the exact opposite of course: rather than the Church giving us the word, it is the word of God that created the Church. Because of its nature as God breathed revelation (2 Tim 3:16), Scripture is the only authority that can bind the conscience. In submitting to Scripture, we are submitting to God, its author.

I was also greatly alarmed by the casual way that the whole concept of redemption is dismissed in Greek Orthodoxy. Of course, Scripture is literally filled with this concept, from start to finish. The cross (and therefore, the death) of Christ is the central theme. The Apostle Peter writes, “knowing that you were not redeemed with perishable things like silver or gold from your futile way of life inherited from your forefathers, but with precious blood, as of a lamb unblemished and spotless, the blood of Christ.” – 1 Peter 2:18,19

It certainly is fascinating viewing as I say…