Double Edged Sword ♱ Assyrian Church Podcast

In this powerful episode we dive deep into Acts 13:25-30, where Saint Paul delivers his transformative first sermon in Antioch. Fresh from Easter and Passion Week reflections, we explore the profound significance of Jesus Christ’s crucifixion and resurrection, the cornerstone of Christian faith. Paul’s message highlights how Old Testament prophecies—at least 28, including Genesis 3:15 and Zechariah 13:7—were fulfilled through Christ’s death and resurrection, proclaiming Him as the Messiah. This episode unpacks the universal call to salvation, extended to both Jews and Gentiles, and the freedom from the Mosaic Law through faith in Jesus (Romans 8:3). We also draw from Matthew 10:22 to inspire believers to persevere through modern-day persecution, fulfilling Christ’s prophecies as disciples of His disciples. With heartfelt reflections on living faith beyond fleeting emotions, this episode encourages steadfast devotion and celebrates the eternal glory awaiting those who endure (2 Timothy 2:12). Tune in for rich biblical insights, practical applications, and a renewed passion for the risen Christ. Subscribe for weekly episodes to grow in faith and share the message of salvation!

Episode 121: Pinpointing Temptation

In this week’s episode of Double Edged Sword, '25 Down, 25 to Go,' Father Genard leads us to the midpoint of the Great Fast with a stirring call to deepen our faith. Marking 25 days of Lent completed and 25 to go, he reflects on a childhood memory to urge believers not to turn back, but to press forward in devotion to our Lord Jesus Christ. This episode explores the true heart of fasting—beyond abstaining from food, it’s about privileging our mouths with prayer, our ears with God’s truth, and our lives with repentance and praise. As the Church offers the Mid-Lent Eucharistic service to cheer us onward, Father Genard challenges us to examine our fast: Have we committed wholeheartedly to Christ? If not, there’s grace for the next 25 days. Join us to refocus on the Savior’s Passion and Resurrection, finding strength in scripture, worship, and the promise of eternal life through Him who is holy, mighty, and merciful.

Why do we face temptations, especially during fasting? In this episode of Double Edged Sword, explore how temptation is a universal struggle—from Adam and Eve to Christ Himself—and a vital part of our spiritual journey. Discover why we should rejoice in these trials, not despair, as they test and strengthen us through God’s grace. Learn how Satan targets our weaknesses, how Jesus overcame, and how we can endure with divine help. A powerful reflection for Lent and beyond!

Join Father Genard as he explores the deeper meaning of fasting in this inspiring Christian podcast episode. Moving beyond the 40 days of Lent, he emphasizes that true fasting isn’t just about abstaining from food like dairy, poultry, and meat—it’s a lifelong call to repentance, obedience to God’s Word, and spiritual discipline. Drawing from scriptures such as Isaiah 40:8, Matthew 6:16-18, and Ephesians 4:25-5:21, Father Genard urges believers to reject sin, gossip, and worldly distractions daily, not just seasonally. With insights from St. John Chrysostom and the Church Fathers, discover how to live a sanctified life, reconcile with enemies, and align with God’s eternal truth. Ideal for Christians seeking biblical wisdom, spiritual growth, and practical ways to embody faith year-round through prayer, humility, and devotion.

Episode 117: Persuaded by the Forgiveness of Sins

Episode 116: Learning from Jonah’s reluctancy

Episode 115: What you Missed out On

In this episode, Father Genard explores the relationship between faith, love, obedience, and authority in Christianity. It emphasizes that true Christian faith is not just about believing in God, but living out that belief through actions, particularly love and obedience to God's commandments. The speaker quotes St. John Chrysostom, highlighting that love for Christ is expressed through obedience, not just words. The connection between the Father, Son, and the apostles is also a key theme; to know and love the Father, one must first accept and obey the Son, as the Son is the way to the Father. The apostles, chosen by Christ, are also essential to the faith, and rejecting them is akin to rejecting Christ and, by extension, the Father. The speaker stresses that a complete relationship with God involves not just loving the Father and Son, but also honoring the apostles and participating in the Church. The passage concludes with a reminder that faith without deeds, as described in James 2:17, is insufficient. To truly follow Christ, one must live according to His commandments and recognize the authority of Christ, the apostles, and the Holy Spirit in their life.

Episode 113: Paul Proclaims the Resurrection