Summary
In this conversation, Josh, Todd, Kelly, and I discuss the book On the Incarnation by St. Athanasius. We explore the background and significance of Athanasius, the importance of reading old books, the meaning of Advent, the connection between the incarnation and creation, the divine dilemma, the role of repentance and restoration, and the concept of the whole Christ and the church. They emphasize the need to understand the true nature of Christianity and the transformative power of God's grace. The conversation explores the themes of the haunting past, the power of love, healing and transformation, the incarnation and corruption, spreading the medicine of incarnation, and the emotionally healthy presentation of the Christian story and promise. It concludes with a reading from 'On the Incarnation'.
Takeaways
Reading old books, like 'On the Incarnation' by Athanasius, can provide valuable insights into the history and theology of Christianity.
Advent is a significant time in the Christian calendar, marking the beginning of the Christian year and focusing on the anticipation of Jesus' coming.
The incarnation is not just about Christmas, but about the larger theological concepts of creation, redemption, and restoration.
Repentance is important, but it is not enough to restore our fallen nature; it is through God's grace and the work of Christ that true restoration occurs.
The church is the body of Christ, and through participation in the church, believers become part of the totus Christus, the whole Christ. Our past can haunt us, and we cannot outrun it. However, love and acceptance can lead to confession and healing.
Monica's love for her father in the play illustrates the power of unconditional love and acceptance.
The incarnation of Jesus helps identify and combat corruption in the world.
The incarnation spreads the medicine of healing across creation, providing a way for us to be healed.
Reading old texts like 'On the Incarnation' can offer a more emotionally healthy presentation of the Christian story and promise.
Remember, you can join us live on Monday at 7EST as we discuss paragraphs 7-20 of the book: LINK for Studio.
Here is a free copy of the book.
Chapters (If you want to scroll ahead)
00:00 Introduction and Background
05:34 Who is Athanasius?
13:36 Importance of Reading Old Books
14:00 The Significance of Advent
18:04 The Incarnation and Creation
22:30 The Divine Dilemma
31:46 Repentance and Restoration
38:53 The Whole Christ and the Church
45:57 The Importance of Reading Old Books
50:42 The Haunting Past
52:03 Monica's Love
53:26 Healing and Transformation
54:25 The Incarnation and Corruption
55:22 Spreading the Medicine of Incarnation
56:44 Emotionally Healthy Presentation
57:47 Reading from 'On the Incarnation'
On the Incarnation