The True Center of Christianity: An Orthodox Perspective

Today, many associate the center of Christianity with Rome, the seat of the Pope. However, this perception is a misconception. The true center of Christianity lies within the teachings and early practices of the Orthodox Church. This article explores the history, principles, and current state of the Orthodox Church to help clarify misconceptions and provide a deeper understanding of what truly defines the core of Christian beliefs.

The Diversity of Christianity

Christianity is a diverse faith with multiple denominations, each with its own unique history and characteristics. The religious landscape includes the Orthodox Church, Roman Catholic Church, Protestant churches, and numerous other smaller groups. Despite these divisions, Christianity shares a common foundation in the life, teachings, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

The Early Church and Its Teachings

The early Church, referred to as the apostolic Church, was a unified community of believers following the apostles' teachings as discussed and practiced around the year AD 33. Over time, different groups emerged, leading to significant theological and structural divisions. Notably, the Catholic church, which includes the Pope, first appeared in 1054, and Protestantism emerged around 500 years later. These divisions often led to differing interpretations and practices within the Christian faith.

The Apostolic Preaching and Its Impact

The apostolic preaching, spreading the message of Jesus Christ, was carried out by the apostles and later by their companions. The Apostles' teachings were based on the core doctrines of faith that included the belief in Jesus as the Messiah, God's Son, and the divine redeemer of humanity. St. Paul, in his letters, emphasized the importance of maintaining the purest form of the gospel, warning of any alterations or variations as being not of the Church. A famous example of this is his statement in Galatians 1:8-9: "But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be anathema [cut off]."

The Fruit of Righteousness: The Role of Christian Character

Jesus spoke about the importance of "fruit" in his teachings. In the Letter to the Galatians, He said, "Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that nature will reap destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life" (Galatians 6:7-8). The fruits of the Spirit, as outlined by Paul in Galatians 5:22-23, include love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.

The Rise and Spread of the Catholic and Protestant Churches

In the 11th century, the Catholic Church began asserting its authority through military conquests. By the 17th century, Protestantism had grown in numbers through significant and often violent expansion. However, this growth came at a cost, as evidenced by the bloody conflicts over religious doctrine and practice. Today, many towns with numerous churches still struggle with internal divisions and focus more on local politics and finances than on the shared Christian message.

The Continued Existence and Strength of the Orthodox Church

Despite these divisions, the Orthodox Church remains a vibrant and enduring testament to the early Christian teachings. The Orthodox Church, whose name literally translates to "right teaching," emphasizes the preservation of the original apostolic traditions. Orthodoxy is a living and significant branch of the Christian faith, and it is thriving in many parts of the world.

Conclusion: Returning to the Early Church

The Orthodox Church offers a clear and consistent path back to the core teachings of early Christianity. It is a living tradition that connects believers directly to the apostles and their original teachings. As the old saying goes, 'five guys were at a table, one walked away, but the other four and about ten more from them are still around!' This statement highlights the enduring strength and continuity of Orthodox Christianity.

Engagement and Exploration

Those interested in learning more about the Orthodox Church are welcome to attend pastors' prayer breakfasts and other church events. These gatherings offer a space to connect with the community, deepen one's faith, and learn about the rich and diverse traditions of Orthodox Christianity.

In conclusion, while Rome has a significant place in Christian history, it is the Orthodox Church that stands as a true reflection of the apostolic traditions and the original teachings of Jesus Christ.