Diakon Christian Azarias

Repent and Believe in The Gospel!

The word Gospel comes from the Greek word evaggelion (εὐαγγέλιον) which means “Good news” or “Glad Tidings”. Within the ancient & pre-Christian Greco-Roman empire, it was common to see this word used when a king was praised for their accomplishments, military victory, or ascension to a throne.

For example, the Roman senator Paullus Fabius Maximus issued an edict in honor of Caesar Augustus. He declared that his birthday should be considered as the beginning of the year on the provincial calendar since he brought peace to the Roman Empire. Because of this, his birth was considered to be the beginning of “εὐαγγέλιον”.

The Apostolic Fathers & the Judaizing Heresy

“But even if we, or an angel from heaven, preach a gospel to you besides that which we have preached to you, let him be anathema.” ~ St. Paul to the Galatians 1:8

It was through these words that St. Paul warned the Church to be on guard against error. As we know from the Bible and Church History, the Holy Apostles worked diligently to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and to also defend the faith against those whom happened to teach erroneous doctrines. The spreading of error within the Church was so severe that even those within the Church – whom happened to be deceived by error – doubted St. Paul’s authentic apostleship. Hence, St. Paul’s opening words to the Galatians whom happened to have Judaizers invading the region:

“Paul, an apostle (not from men nor through man, but through Jesus Christ and God the Father who raised Him from the dead), and all the brethren who are with me, To the churches of Galatia …”

Zodiac Signs & Astrology: Is It Compatible with Orthodoxy?

“O house of Israel, hear the word of the Lord, for He has spoken to you. Thus says the Lord: “Do not learn the ways of the Gentiles, and do not be afraid because of signs from the sky, for they themselves reverence these. For the customs of the peoples are vain.”[1]

One of the biggest perils which is poisoning souls is the belief in Zodiac Signs and Astrology. Even though many who practice astrology are in denial, it is factual that it is an ancient pagan religion which upholds beliefs and practices which are against the Gospel of Jesus Christ and the dogmas of His Holy Orthodox Church. Sadly, many Orthodox Christians that are not catechized have fallen into this grave error; especially the youth. This is because Zodiac Signs are mentioned in news papers, magazines, T.V. programs, music, and games; resulting in them becoming apart of today’s pop culture.