Recently, Eastern Orthodox theology has attracted renewed attention in modern religious discussions. Many people are drawn to a religion like this because of its age, its traditions, and its historical emphasis, yet when examining a religious order like this we must ask: Are religious practices authoritative because they are ancient or because they are authorized by the Word of God? And should tradition establish religious doctrine alongside of Scripture?
The Greek Orthodox Church openly recognizes both the Bible and “Sacred Tradition” as sources of their faith. They openly reject sola scriptura (scripture alone). Their tradition encompasses the writings of church fathers, decisions of the councils, liturgical practices and the veneration of icons and saints. While Orthodox believers view these sources as expressions of an historic Christian faith, we must examine whether such practices are authorized by the New Testament.
Jesus warned against allowing human tradition to supersede divine authority. In Mark 7:7, He condemned those who taught “for doctrines the commandments of men.” He continued in verse 9, “Full well ye reject the commandment of God, that ye may keep your own tradition.” Jesus points out that they had elevated human traditions well above God’s commandments.
Consider for a moment religious world history, which is littered with historical divisions and denominational schisms. During the seventeenth century, the Russian Orthodox church was confronted by reforms intended to bring them into conformity with the Greek Orthodox church. Those who resisted these changes became known as Old Believers, and this controversy developed into a lasting schism. They were scattered throughout the world and fled Russia in subsequent years. There has never been a reconciliation. This is but one example of religious division though the centuries and how it continues to subdivide those who profess a faith in Christianity. The devil loves to have it so. Therefore, this raises a fundamental question: if traditions can change, and in doing so they conflict and divide practitioners, what business do they serve as the foundation of any religious authority?
Now contrast these traditions that divide people, with the only real thing that can unite and unify people of faith; God’s Holy Word! You see, the New Testament provides the standard by which our faith and practice must be measured. Paul declared in Colossians 3:17, “And whatsoever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus.” Our religious practices must therefore be grounded in Christ’s authority, not merely in the customs of those who proceeded the apostles.
Several Orthodox practices, such as, the veneration of icons, intercessory prayers for the departed, and an emphasis in authorized “Sacred Tradition” deserve careful examination. Where does the New Testament authorize these as required elements of Christian practice? Scripture teaches that Christ is our mediator (1 Tim. 2:5) and we worship God in spirit and in truth (John 4:24). We must be careful not to confuse traditions developed over centuries with commands given by Christ and His apostles.
However, the greatest lesson we can learn from this examination of the Orthodox church is to examine our own practices, make the application to our own traditions and customs, and to see them for what they are – secondary to the adherence of God’s Word. Every Christian and every congregation must continually ask whether its teachings, worship, and organization reflect the New Testament pattern.
Paul praised the Bereans, because they “searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so” (Acts 17:11). Their example reminds us that sincere teachers and respected congregations are not beyond examination. The church belongs to Christ (Matt. 16:18) and He possesses all authority (Matt. 28:18). All scripture is given by inspiration of God (2 Tim. 3:16-17). Tradition is not given by inspiration, but by men; therefore, we follow the revealed will of God. The ultimate question is not whether a tradition is ancient, beautiful, or meaningful. The better question is whether our practice of faith is adherent to the Word of God.
-Bobby Burris