As an Orthodox Christian have you ever wondered why we give so much importance to our church traditions? Why are we still relying on the rich old liturgies practiced from the earliest centuries of Christianity?
Many Christian groups believe that scripture/ the Bible is the be-all and end-all of all Christian faith – i.e. sola scripture.
However, Orthodox Christians believe that the oral tradition of the church is also important. The written and oral traditions are not in conflict but are parts of a whole.
In 1 Timothy 3:15 the Apostle Paul says that the church is the pillar and foundation of truth because the New Testament was built on her (church’s) life in God. In fact, she (the church) wrote it. It is within the church that the New Testament was written and presented.
Just as God speaks to us through the Bible He spoke through the apostles as they taught and preached. God spoke authoritatively not only through the Bible but through the church as well.
Tradition is the faith given by Christ to his apostles and passed on to following generations. In 2 Thessalonians 2:15 St. Paul exhorts us, “Therefore, brethren, stand fast and hold the traditions you were taught, whether by word or our epistle.”
Here is a story that illustrates the importance of tradition.
It is taken from the book, “Surprised by Christ” written by Rev. A. James Bernstein of the Orthodox church of America. I have shortened it though.
In the 1990s while living in Washington State Father James decided to build a shed behind his house. In preparation, he studied a book in carpentry that had ‘everything’ in it. It was full of pictures and diagrams, so that ‘even a kid could follow its instructions’. It was supposed to explain itself.
However, the more Father James read the book the more confused he became. There came many doubts and questions. Disgusted that he was unable to understand something that seemed simple he called up a friend.
The friend was able to show him how to complete the project. He knew because of oral tradition. An experienced carpenter had taught him and he, in turn, taught Father James. Written and oral tradition together got the job done.
Similarly, many of us learn to work on the computer or sewing machine not merely through bookish instructions but also with the help of people who have practical experience.
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