In this episode of Double Edged Sword, Father Genard Lazar sits down with His Holiness Mar Awa III to explore the profound teachings of the Holy Spirit as they illuminate the Sacred Scriptures and the Tradition of the One, Holy, Catholic, and Apostolic Church. We delve into the life in Christ, where humanity is called to partake in the divine nature and pursue sanctification through consecrated celibacy or legal marriage, reflecting the ultimate image of perfected humanity found in Jesus Christ. The episode unpacks a synodical statement from the Church’s highest authority, emphasizing the importance of adhering to divine and ecclesiastical laws regarding Christian marriage, human sexuality, and morality for the spiritual growth and salvation of all believers.

In this inspiring episode of The Double Edged Sword podcast, Father Genard sits down with newly ordained Deacon Colin Bethishou to discuss his journey to the diaconate. Join us as we delve into the profound spiritual experiences and the heartfelt calling that led Deacon Colin to dedicate his life to serving the Church and its community. Deacon Colin shares his insights on the transformative power of faith, the importance of obedience to God's commandments, and the role of divine wisdom in guiding our everyday lives. Deacon Colin's testimony and his unwavering commitment to the teachings of Christ. Father Genard and Deacon Colin also explore the significance of meditating on the holy scriptures and how this practice can enlighten our minds and hearts. Tune in to hear about Deacon Colin's first steps in his new role, the challenges he anticipates, and the joy he finds in serving God and His people. This episode is a testament to the enduring power of faith and the grace that comes from living a life devoted to spiritual growth and service.

In this episode, Father Genard delved into the historical context of weaponry and spiritual armor, emphasizing the defensive aspects discussed in Ephesians 6:17. He highlighted the need for a steadfast hope in God to guard the mind against evil thoughts. The conversation expanded to the offensive side of spiritual warfare, examining the "sword of the Spirit" as a metaphor for the word of God and its power. Father Genard also touched on the multifaceted nature of prayer, urging sincerity and deep affection in communication with God, exemplified by the Lord's Prayer. For info, feedback or topic suggestions please visit ⁠https://linktr.ee/doubleedgedsword⁠ If you’d like to make a monetary contribution to this ministry please visit: ⁠https://double-edged-sword-podcast.cheddarup.com

In this episode, Father Genard discusses the importance of spiritual armor, specifically focusing on the Breastplate of Righteousness, the Shoes of the Gospel of Peace, and the Shield of Faith. He emphasizes the need to live a virtuous life according to God's standards, which encompass ethics, manners, morals, and etiquette. By donning the armor of God, believers can guard themselves against the snares of Satan and avoid giving him a foothold. The Breastplate of Righteousness signifies being in right standing with God and living according to His measures. The Shoes of the Gospel of Peace represent the readiness to proclaim the Gospel and engage in good deeds, which can deter evil actions. The Shield of Faith is described as a fiery, determined faith that not only believes in God but also acts to glorify Him and participate in His redemptive plan. This strong faith serves as protection against the devil's temptations and helps believers quench the fiery darts of unbelief and blasphemy. Overall, Father Genard stresses the importance of embracing these spiritual armors to lead a righteous and faithful life. For info, feedback or topic suggestions please visit ⁠https://linktr.ee/doubleedgedsword⁠ If you’d like to make a monetary contribution to this ministry please visit: ⁠https://double-edged-sword-podcast.cheddarup.com

To combat grief, one can find solace in Holy Scriptures like Psalm 34:18 and Psalm 147:3, acknowledging that grief is a natural part of life, and seeking strength from God, as advised in Isaiah 53:4. Trusting in God's never-ending love and practicing gratitude, as recommended in 1 Thessalonians 5:18, can provide comfort. While traditions and rituals can help with the grieving process, it's important to remember that death has a time limit, as mentioned in 1 Corinthians 15:25-26. Though grief is a part of life, Scripture promises eventual comfort. Referenced Bible verses: Isaiah 53:4 "He himself bore our sicknesses, and our pains that He carried." 1 Cor 15:25-26 "For he is to reign, until he shall put all his enemies under his feet, and the last enemy, death, will be abolished." Acts 8:2 "And believing men gathered up and buried Stephen. And they lamented over him greatly." Psalm 34:18 "The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." Psalm 147:3 "He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds." Psalm 55:4-5 " My heart is in anguish within me, and the terrors of death have fallen upon me. Fear and trembling come upon me, and horror has overwhelmed me." Psalm 34:18 "The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." Psalm 147:3 "He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds." Psalm 55:4-5 " My heart is in anguish within me, and the terrors of death have fallen upon me. Fear and trembling come upon me, and horror has overwhelmed me." 2 Cor 1:3-4 "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction so that we will be able to comfort those who are in any affliction with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God." For info, feedback or topic suggestions please visit ⁠https://linktr.ee/doubleedgedsword⁠ If you’d like to make a monetary contribution to this ministry please visit: ⁠https://double-edged-sword-podcast.cheddarup.com⁠

In this episode Father Genard discusses judgement and if we are permitted to judge? We are not permitted to make a final judgment, condemn people to hell, or gift them with the bliss of the Kingdom of Heaven, that is God's judgement. But we are instructed to do it righteously, by judging according to Christ's standards found in the scripture and incorporated in the Church's canons and laws. We are to worry about, rebuke, lookout for one another as Christians. When a brother or sister in Christ sways out of the path, we are to correct them and remind them and to restore them to be on the correct path. However avoid hypocrisy. • Jude righteously (Scriptures, Church cannons, Liturgy, Sacraments) • Judge it pity, love, care and mercy • Be sure to have judged yourself first • Do not judge to condemnation (eternal Hell) Hymnology from the burial of the deceased: Those who have been rejected by their deeds, the door of the wedding feast will not be open unto them (Matthew 25). Abraham will not refresh those who are burning in the flames of fire (Luke 16:19-31). The Judge will not forgive those who have not repented (Luke 13:3-5). For this reason, take refuge in repentance, O my soul, and say, "I have sinned against you O Lord, have pity and mercy upon me. Bible verses: Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord comes, who will both bring to light the hidden things of darkness and reveal the counsels of the hearts. Then each one's praise will come from God. 1 Corinthians 4:5 For every tree is known by its own fruit. For men do not gather figs from thorns, nor do they gather grapes from a bramble bush. Luke 6:44 ‘You shall do no injustice in judgment. You shall not be partial to the poor, nor admire the person of the mighty. In righteousness you shall judge your neighbor. Leviticus 19:15 Do not judge according to appearance, but judge with righteous judgment.” John 7:24 He who rejects Me, and does not receive My words, has that which judges him—the word that I have spoken will judge him in the last day. John 12:48 “Judge not, that you be not judged. Matthew 7:1 For what have I to do with judging those also who are outside? Do you not judge those who are inside?† But those who are outside God judges. Therefore “put away from yourselves the evil person.” 1 Corinthians 5:12-13 For judgment is without mercy to the one who has shown no mercy. Mercy triumphs over judgment. James 2:13 Brethren, if a man is overtaken in any trespass, you who are spiritual restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness, considering yourself lest you also be tempted.† Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.† Galatians 6:1-2 Iron sharpens iron, And a man sharpens the countenance of his friend.† Proverbs of Solomon 27:17 For info, feedback or topic suggestions please visit ⁠https://linktr.ee/doubleedgedsword⁠ If you’d like to make a monetary contribution to this ministry please visit: ⁠https://double-edged-sword-podcast.cheddarup.com⁠

This episode was recorded in front of a live audience at the 2023 North American Youth Conference hosted by the diocese of California in Sacramento, Ca. Father Genard sat down with Deacon Peter Azzo to discuss the theme of the conference, Not of this World. If you were of the world, the world would love its own. Yet because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you. John 15:19

In this episode, The Bible teaches us to bless and love our persecutors, rather than cursing them. We are called to be patient, understanding, and compassionate towards them. This instruction is found in Romans 12:14 and Matthew 5:43-46, where Jesus encourages us to bless those who curse us and pray for those who persecute us. This attitude stems from the teachings of Jesus during the Sermon on the Mount, emphasizing love and forgiveness even towards our enemies. By responding with blessings, we may have the opportunity to lead our persecutors to repentance. This aligns with the Gospel message and the example set by Jesus on the cross when He prayed for His persecutors' forgiveness (Luke 23:34). Ultimately, enduring persecution for the sake of righteousness is rewarded, as mentioned in Matthew 5:10-12 and 1 Peter 2:20.

Father Genard emphasizes the importance of patience in demonstrating true love. It highlights the concept of long suffering and the power of patience in bringing about positive change and leading others to repentance. The speaker encourages believers to exhibit patience in relationships and to view it as a superior attribute to wealth or power. Patience is seen as a transformative weapon that can bring calm and harmony. The passage emphasizes the need to fix one's gaze on Jesus as the ultimate example of patience and love. Overall, the passage underscores the significance of patience in fostering spiritual growth and promoting reconciliation. For info, feedback or topic suggestions please visit ⁠https://linker.ee/doubleedgedsword⁠ If you’d like to make a monetary contribution to this ministry please visit: ⁠https://double-edged-sword-podcast.cheddarup.com⁠

In this episode of the Double Edged Sword Podcast, Father Genard discusses the importance of reconciliation among Christians and the steps that can be taken to achieve it. He emphasizes the need to approach someone who has wronged you and attempt to resolve the issue privately. If that doesn't work, one should bring a few witnesses to establish the truth, and if the person still refuses to listen, the matter should be brought before the church. Father Genard also stresses the importance of forgiveness and warns that those who do not forgive others will not be forgiven by God. The overall message is that Christians should strive for unity and peace within their community. Bible verses Matthew 18:15 Romans 5:8 John 8:18 Matthew 6:14-15 For info, feedback or topic suggestions please visit https://linktr.ee/doubleedgedsword If you’d like to make a monetary contribution to this ministry please visit: https://double-edged-sword-podcast.cheddarup.com

Bible Verses: Exodus 14:14, Psalms 40:10, Romans 12:19, 1 Corinthians 10:13

Morning Prayer Follow along starting from page 65 from the Beginners Prayer Book found on linktr.ee/doubleedgedsword

Bible verses: Philippians 2:12, John 3:16, Titus 3:4, 2 Corinthians 6:2, Ephesians 4:30, James 2:20, 1 Corinthians 7, John 15:5, John 6:56, John 6:53-55, Matthew 26:26, 1 Corinthians 10:16, 1 Peter 5:8

Episode 20: The Ascension of Our Lord Jesus Christ

Bible verses: Matthew 6:10, Psalms 25:8, 1 chronicle 16:34, Galatians 5:22, Luke 12:32, Philippians 4:6-7, Isaiah 40:28, Psalms 103:15-16, Isaiah 46:9-10, Genesis 18:14, John 15:5, Psalms 139:7, Amos 9:3, 1 Thessalonians 5:18,

Reverend Priest Genard Lazar welcomes you all to the new podcast ministry. Starting January 2022 we will be releasing weekly 15-minute episodes discussing day to day battles Christians face. Please subscribe and share with your friends and family so you don't miss out on an episode.