The Church of the Saints
The
Church Of The Saints
The following discussions
explore a controversial series of thoughts that continue to spark some
extensive debates on social media. It revolves around the doctrine of intercession
of saints and having blessings from icons and the bodies of saints in Coptic Orthodox churches.
The discussions often involve heated debates and accusations, such as
labeling the Orthodox or Catholic Church as "worshiping the dead" or calling it a "pagan
church." Unfortunately, some individuals use harsh mockery and explicit
insults, attempting to justify this unchristian behavior by citing verses from
the Holy Scriptures.
Moving away from these futile
discussions, I’ve noticed that while few servants are trying to defend the doctrine of intercession, there semm to be some contradictions in the explanations
of intercession from various perspectives. I acknowledge that some
explanations, seemingly support the doctrine of intercession, have fabricated
interpretations that inadvertently harm the true meaning behind the intercession. And that caused the social media platforms to become an arena for sparking fires between
Christian denominations.
To all parties and those who
speak in the name of religion, understanding should precede arguments. So, please refrain from explaining intercession until you reach a complete understanding and a clearer picture on the true meaning behind the doctrine of "Intercession".
Christ is
alive within us…
He is Holy,
dwelling within us, making us saints...
He is
light, residing within us, making us a light to the world...
He is also
an intercessor, manifested within us. So, how can there be objections when he
fills us with the spirit of intercession, seeking the salvation of others,
working in and through us for their salvation?
Although we have an intercessor, who is the human Jesus Christ, it is necessary for us to pray for others according
to His command. Does this contradict with the Holy Scriptures? Opponents of
intercession may argue that this command is for the living only. Even if this
were true (for the sake of argument), it does not invalidate the argument that
Jesus Christ, as an intercessor, is sufficient.
Does Christ not live within us?
Is He not manifested in His chosen ones? Is He not an intercessor? Thus, He
necessarily ignites their hearts with the zeal of intercession for the fallen
and the weak! Therefore, scrutiny and awareness are necessary before publicly
denouncing and launching empty attacks on the Church.
In the upcoming series of articles, I will attempt an honest exploration of the meaning, origins, and necessity of the doctrine of intercession. I will discuss how these meanings are reflected in the liturgy, rituals, and laws of the Church. The articles will be presented in a conversational style between friends, using simple language, aiming to convey the desired meaning to the widest possible audience.
- Introductory
Dialogue
- The
intercession and Mediation of Christ
- Why
Intercession? Doesn’t Christ Intercede for us??
- What
does it mean? ‘...My Glory I will not give to another?’
- Can
Anyone else be an intercessor if Christ is the intercessor?
- Do
the Dead intercede for the living?
- Are
we offering prayers to the departed??
- Isn't
Christ sufficient for us? and other questions…
- Between
the Canonization of the Saints and Condemnation!!!