Episode 121: Pinpointing Temptation

In this heartfelt post-Thanksgiving message, Fr. Jennard takes us far beyond the turkey on our tables and gently leads us to the Table of the Lord. While America pauses once a year to give thanks over a sacrificed bird, the ancient Church invites us every week—every divine liturgy—to the ultimate Thanksgiving: the Holy Qurbana, the Eucharist, where we offer and receive the true Lamb who takes away the sin of the world.With warmth, humor, and unashamed apostolic fire, Father reminds us that “Eucharist” simply means thanksgiving. Every time we step into the holy mysteries, we are doing what the pilgrims only pointed to—we are giving thanks for the One who was slain, risen, and now gloriously present in the Bread and Wine that are His very Body and Blood.If you’ve ever found a thousand excuses to miss Sunday liturgy while traveling miles for family dinner… if you’ve ever wondered why the Eucharist is more than a symbol… if your soul is hungry for deeper gratitude—this episode is the Lord’s tender invitation to come home to the feast that never ends.Come taste and see: the real Thanksgiving happens every time the Church gathers around the altar. Don’t just celebrate it once a year—live it every Sunday with your eternal family in Christ.Amen, amen—bring your heart to the Holy Qurbana this Sunday, and every Sunday, and give thanks with angels and saints!

Beloved in Christ, join us in this soul-stirring exploration of Romans 3:9-20, where St. Paul boldly declares that all—Jew and Gentile alike—are held captive under sin's shadow. With heartfelt wisdom, we delve into humanity's universal fall, the law's inability to save through fleshly weakness, and God's glorious remedy: righteousness by faith in Jesus Christ alone. Drawing from ancient liturgies of holy baptism and the Church Fathers, discover how free will led to corruption, yet divine grace lifts us to eternal inheritance. A faith-filled reminder to cling to the Good Shepherd's perfect goodness, seek His will daily, and live out deeds of love. Amen—may this message ignite your heart for deeper obedience!Rom 12:2John 10:11;151 Cor 13:9Phil 3:12-141 John 3:6

Discover why no one is predestined for destruction, but all were once under sin—enslaved by free choices, not divine decree. Through vivid stories of addiction, rebellion, and redemption, we see God’s loving heart: He warns like a Father, empowers through conscience and Scripture, yet honors our will. Praise Jesus, who took sin upon Himself without sinning, paid our debt in full, and rose to birth the new Israel—the Church! If you’re wrestling with guilt or grace, this message ignites hope: sin’s power is broken; choose life in Christ today. Amen—come, be liberated!

In this episode, we continue our deep dive into Romans Chapter 3, focusing on verses 5–8. We discuss Paul’s powerful arguments about God’s righteousness and address the misconception that human sin somehow glorifies God. Drawing on the insights of Saint John Chrysostom, the episode challenges the ideas of predestination and Calvinism, emphasizing that God does not create unrighteousness to showcase His glory.We explore the meaning of justification, referencing Psalm 51, and unpack why free will is crucial in understanding sin and redemption. The episode thoughtfully examines why God’s holiness and love remain unchanged, regardless of human belief or rejection.You’ll hear reflections on how personal choices—not divine design—lead to sin, the dangers of twisting scripture to justify wrongdoing, and stories that illustrate God’s true desire for repentance and restoration. The teaching ultimately affirms that all are called to holiness through Christ, and that God’s love invites everyone to return and live.

Join us for a soul-stirring episode as we dive into Romans Chapter 3, continuing our journey through Saint Paul’s powerful epistle. In this heartfelt message, we explore the profound truth that God’s faithfulness remains unshaken, even when human belief falters. Reflecting on the spiritual significance of circumcision and the grace of God, this episode reminds us that salvation is a divine gift, not earned by works but received through faith. With wisdom drawn from Psalms, Deuteronomy, and Ephesians, we’re challenged to live authentically as Christians, ensuring our actions honor Christ’s name. Perfect for believers seeking to deepen their understanding of God’s unchangeable love and grace.

Join us on this uplifting episode of Double Edged Sword Podcast as we dive into Acts 15, where the early church in Antioch radiates love, unity, and unwavering faith. Reflecting on the apostles' decree about the Gentiles, we rejoice in the truth that binds us—Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace. This episode explores how true unity, rooted in His unchanging truth, stands firm against compromise, offering a timeless lesson for our walk with God.Even amidst contention between Paul and Barnabas, we see God’s grace at work. Their separation, far from enmity, becomes a beautiful testament to growth and mission, as they each nurture John Mark’s faith journey. Beloved, let this inspire us to seek reconciliation and follow-up with one another in love, trusting that the Holy Spirit guides us through every challenge. Tune in for a heartwarming reminder of the apostolic church’s enduring strength and the power of God’s truth!

Dive into this uplifting Double Edged Sword Podcast episode exploring Acts 15, where the Jerusalem Council, guided by the Holy Spirit, ruled against requiring circumcision for Gentile believers, fulfilling rather than abolishing the Old Covenant. Led by Peter, James, and Paul, their decision reflects a unified church, contrasting today’s 45,000 denominations split by personal views and deception. Highlighting uniform liturgy, baptism’s salvific role, and the Spirit’s guidance over mere Scripture (1 Corinthians 1:10, 14:40), this episode urges unity in apostolic truth. Prophets Judas and Silas strengthened faith, not false predictions, as Antioch rejoiced in love and truth (1 Corinthians 13). Embrace Christ’s unchanging Word (Hebrews 4:12) for a harmonious faith. Glory to His name!

This week, we reflect on the challenging times that have shaken the Christian world, particularly the recent martyrdom of our beloved brothers and sisters, including the tragic loss of two young brothers at the Church of Annunciation, a sister attacked on public transport, and the heartbreaking school shooting that took two more precious lives. We honor the memory of our brother Charles James Kirk, whose faithful witness to Christ has left an indelible mark, and our brother Ashur Sarnaya, murdered for preaching the Gospel in France. Through these trials, we are reminded of the call to martyrdom and the blessed persecution that comes with living for the Lord.With faith as our anchor, we explore the apostles' authority and the oral traditions that have shaped the Church, drawing from Acts of the Apostles to understand how the early Church navigated challenges with the guidance of the Holy Spirit. We revisit Saint James’ wisdom on addressing the Gentiles, emphasizing the importance of abstaining from sexual immorality and honoring God’s law, while celebrating the unity of apostles, presbyters, and the faithful community in upholding truth. This episode encourages us to hold fast to the traditions—both written and spoken—passed down through the ages, as we see in the lives of Saint Peter and Saint Paul. As we bear our crosses, we find comfort in Christ’s promise to be with us, offering solace to those grieving, like our sister Erika and her daughters, and praying for the eternal rest of those who have gone before us.

In this episode, we explore Acts 15, reflecting on the early church’s wisdom as Simon, Paul, and Barnabas, guided by the Holy Spirit, navigate the inclusion of Gentiles with love and order. Hear how God’s grace purifies hearts, uniting Jews and Gentiles in faith, and discover the beauty of worship through silence, reverence, and the holy Eucharist. With warm insights from James and the prophetic words of Amos, this episode reminds us to trust in the Spirit’s guidance within the apostolic church. Tune in, beloved, and let the Word of God sharpen your spirit as we give thanks to our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.

we continue our faith-filled journey through Acts 15, delving deeper into the early church’s struggle with circumcision and the inclusion of Gentiles. With a warm heart, we reflect on Saint Peter’s powerful testimony, as he recalls God’s grace poured out on Cornelius, a Gentile who received the Holy Spirit before baptism. This moving account challenges us to look beyond the Old Testament covenant to the living guidance of the Holy Spirit, whom Jesus promised to lead His church. We explore how the apostles, empowered by divine wisdom, embraced grace over legalism, reminding us that God’s love remains unchanging. Join us for this soul-stirring discussion that invites you to pray and seek the Spirit’s direction in your life.