On Faith and Works, the Meaning of Baptism, and Predestination

By: St. Gregory Palamas

Narrated by: Virtual Voice

Contents: 1. That True Faith is Impossible Without Works of Repentance; 2. That Baptism Alone is Not Sufficient to Save Without Keeping God’s Commandments; 3. and On Why God Made Those Who Would Perish. St. Gregory represents Orthodox theology at its most sublime. Patristic theology in the fourteenth century, of which St. Gregory is indubitably the greatest exponent, touched the very boundaries of theological expression. St. Gregory’s sermons are among the finest in Patristic literature. In his treatment of the manifold themes contained therein, he is remarkably consistent in maintaining a balance between originality of thought and strict adherence to the tradition of his predecessors. Moreover, his genius resides in the ease with which he demonstrates, as only a master of the spiritual life can, the refreshingly practical significance of the doctrines of the Church for the Life in Christ.