AboutHerman Expertise I can answer general questions about the teachings of the Orthodox Church and Orthodox monasticism, particularly differences from Protestants and Catholics.
Experience Orthodox Christian convert from Protestantism over 30 years ago. 1 year seminary training.
Organizations American Carpatho-Russian Orthodox Diocese
I've written to you a few times and you've been helpful in your answers. Thanks.
Quick background. I grew up in the Orthodox Church (but Jesus Christ was never real to me), saved at 29 (through Evangelical movement), now studying Orthodoxy and attending the Divine Liturgy.
Anyway, my question concerns a Bible Study that I've been involved with for about a year now. It involves myself and 2 other believers (both Protestant).
I met these two friends through a men's ministry last summer and we started getting together on our own once a week for fellowship and reading the Bible. At our weekly meeting much more goes on than just Bible reading. It is sharing our experiences each week and accountability.
Now, I have no doubts of their love for Jesus Christ and that they are under the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
If I were to come back into the Orthodox Church, what would be the view of the Church be on one of its members attending a fellowship gathering such as this?
The way I see it (obviously correct me if I'm wrong), God is working in ways that we don't always know. But, in terms of Biblical interpretation within our fellowship, I'm obligated to be sure any interpretation be taken from sources within the Orthodox Church (Holy Fathers, etc.). But, in terms of sharing our experiences (walk with Jesus Christ), that is okay.
I shared where I'm currently at with one of these people last night, and he, never being exposed to Orthodoxy at all, was very interested and not against understanding more about it. But, he is concerned (as well as am I), about what the Orthodox Church position on my involvement in a fellowship gathering of this type would be.
I can't imagine that this would be viewed as a bad thing, especially considering my understanding of the Churches view of interpretation. And also realizing that this fellowship should in no way substitute for involvement within the Church, meaning the Liturgy, Sacraments, etc.
I'm just looking for some clarity on this subject.
Thanks.
Answer Glory to Jesus Christ!
When I became Orthodox from a Protestant background, I was very frustrated. I had finally come across our Lord in a real and visceral way, but because of my situation, I could not share it. I was a college student at the time, and there was no organized Orthodox church or fellowship nearby. The nearest Church I could attend was over an hour away and I did not have the ability to go there every week and I wanted something more than "Sunday Christianity". I wanted Bible Study, I wanted fellowship with others who also felt the same way, but I knew of no other Orthodox where I was.
So, I attended Catholic Bible studies, I also got involved with a non-denominational group called "The Navigators" who had a wealth of resources on learning and sharing Holy Scripture. I gained a lot from my involvement, beginning pretty much where you sound like you are now. Others might disagree, but I do not see the harm in what you are doing.
Many in the Orthodox Church frown on joint services and prayers with non-Orthodox on an official level, and with good reason I think. But that is not the situation here. As you already said, and obviously understand, try not to substitute what you are doing for active involvement with the Church when there is something available. I suspect, however, at some point, you will "outgrow" what the Protestants have to offer (but then, I think you already know that too). If there is an Orthodox priest you can talk to, I recommend you share your concerns with him, and nothing I say should take priority over his thoughts on the matter. I suspect many priests would not disagree too much with what I have said so far, but I do know some that might disagree. I would hope such a priest would have concrete suggestions for filling the hunger you are obviously feeling with solid Orthodox "food". Until then, your Protestant friends can certainly help you get a handle on what Scripture says, just don't get too wrapped up in what they think it MEANS. Look to the Church for that and I think you will do well.
