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Lent Day 36: Ambrose of Milan: Concerning the Mysteries: 5-9

...spiritual grace for a share in the kingdom of God and in the priesthood” (1 Peter 2:9). Ambrose points out here something unusual I’ve not heard before about foot washing. After these are baptised and anointed with oil, the converts then have their feet washed because of the example set by Jesus. It really is an example we are meant to follow too which is something I hadn’t noticed before, nor ever really been taught. Jesus specifically said to his disciples: John 13:14-15 So if I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have set you an example, that you also should do as I have done to you....

Unveiling the Trinity: Exploring the Nature of Jesus and the Incarnation

..., full of grace and truth." Philippians 2:6-7 "[Jesus], who, existing in the form of God, did not consider equality with God as something to be used for His own advantage. Instead He emptied Himself by assuming the form of a slave, taking on the likeness of men." So, when Jesus was praying, He was communicating with the Father, emphasising the distinction between them, even though they are one God. This concept is encapsulated in the notion of the Trinity, often summarised as "one what, three who's." These Biblical references and insights from early church fathers provide a more comprehensive understanding of the complex yet foundational doctrine...

The Early Concept of the Trinity: Tracing the Roots

...Spirit of grace poured out upon us?”. Clement provides an important link back to the Apostles, too, as Origen of Alexandria (AD 185—284) and Eusebius of Caesarea (AD 260—340) maintained that Clement of Rome was the same Clement mentioned by the apostle Paul in Philippians 4:3. Irenaeus of Lyons (AD 130—200) also tells us that “this man [Clement], as he had seen the blessed apostles, and had been conversant with them, might be said to have the preaching of the apostles still echoing [in his ears], and their traditions before his eyes” (Against Heresies 3:3). So, his letter provides important context when discussing this topic and what apostolic teachi...

From Dust to Redemption: The Meaning of Ash Wednesday

...k God’s grace. Greek Orthodox Yearly Fasting Calendar (2025). Fasting isn’t just for Lent! An Anglican Perspective The Church of England, along with many other Anglican churches, recognises Ash Wednesday as an important day in the liturgical calendar. The Book of Common Prayer (1662) includes a special Commination Service, calling the faithful to repentance. While this service is less commonly used today, Ash Wednesday services in Anglican churches typically follow a solemn and reflective tone, with readings, prayers, and the imposition of ashes. The Anglican tradition emphasises that Lent is not merely about external observances but about an inward...

Why do bad things happen to 'good' people?

...A question most often asked by Christians and non-Christians alike is "why do bad things happen to 'good' people?" I say 'good' in quotations because, as Paul writes in Romans 3:10, "There is no one who is righteous, not even one". In light of that this question is technically, fundamentally flawed, as it presupposes that some people are better or more worthy than others. We all do wrong one way or another, so at a base level and in comparison to a Holy God, no one is any more 'good' than another, which is Paul's argument I believe (but that's probably a whole other blog post for another day). But that aside, taking the question as it is, and assuming tha...

The Deity of Christ in the Gospel of Matthew - Part 2

..., full of grace and truth.”). He is a more direct closer manifestation of God than had been experienced by mankind throughout history. God, not appearing in angelic form or some visual representation in a vision or dream, but actually becoming a man through a real human mother in order to be the Saviour of his people. (Matthew 1:21–23) Matthew tells us his account of the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus, and how he accomplished his task of securing salvation for his people as predicted (Matthew 1:21). The gospel was written after his ascension. Matthew has one final question to ask. Having come closer to us than ever before and fulfilling his purpose,...