
Aphraates
- Sermons
- Bio
Demonstration 1 (Of Faith)
0PRO 20:6ISA 11:1ISA 66:16MAT 5:14MAT 9:28MRK 16:17JHN 1:1JHN 14:201CO 3:11EPH 5:2HEB 11:33Aphraates preaches about the importance of faith as the foundation of all good works, emphasizing that faith in Christ is the cornerstone upon which the entire structure of a believer's life is built. He delves into the significance of various biblical figures like Abel, Enoch, Noah, Abraham, and Moses, showcasing how their faith led to remarkable deeds and divine interventions. Aphraates highlights the power of faith to conquer challenges, perform miracles, and transform lives, drawing examples from both the Old and New Testaments. He stresses the necessity of genuine faith in God, belief in Christ's resurrection, and adherence to the teachings of the Church, while urging believers to abstain from sinful practices and embrace righteous living.
Demonstration 5 (Of Wars)
0GEN 27:40GEN 49:10DEU 4:2DEU 32:21ISA 5:1DAN 2:44DAN 7:27HOS 8:10MAT 19:28LUK 2:1Aphraates preaches about the prophetic visions in the book of Daniel, highlighting the rise and fall of kingdoms, the humbling of the proud, and the ultimate victory of God's Kingdom. He emphasizes the importance of humility, as seen in historical events where those who exalted themselves were eventually humbled by God. Aphraates encourages believers to trust in God's sovereignty, even in times of turmoil and conflict, knowing that God's Kingdom will prevail in the end.
Demonstration 6 (Of Monks)
0JHN 14:23Aphraates preaches about the importance of preparing our hearts and bodies as temples for the Spirit of Christ to dwell in, emphasizing the need to guard against Satan's temptations and to keep the Holy Spirit within us through purity and prayer. He highlights the significance of honoring the Spirit of Christ received through baptism, as it determines our spiritual state in the resurrection. Aphraates urges monks and virgins to love and uphold virginity, warning against mocking others and encouraging zealous reading, meditation on God's Law, and prayer.
Demonstration 8 (Of the Resurrection of the Dead)
01CO 15:36Aphraates preaches about the certainty of the resurrection of the dead, addressing controversies on the nature of the resurrected body. He emphasizes that the dead will rise in heavenly and spiritual forms, not in their earthly bodies, drawing parallels to the growth of a seed. Aphraates explains that the righteous will be clothed in heavenly bodies, while the wicked will face torment. He highlights the importance of faith and righteousness in preparing for the Resurrection and receiving rewards from God.
Demonstration 10 (Of Pastors)
0EXO 32:31ZEC 11:9MAT 10:8MAT 11:27MAT 25:29JHN 10:11JHN 21:151CO 1:241CO 9:7Aphraates emphasizes the importance of pastors caring for their flock, drawing examples from biblical figures like Jacob, Joseph, Moses, David, and Amos who diligently tended to their sheep before leading people. He contrasts diligent pastors who give themselves for their sheep with hirelings who neglect them, warning of the consequences for those who do not care for the sheep. Aphraates urges pastors to follow the example of the Good Shepherd, Jesus, who gave Himself for the sake of His sheep, and encourages them to nurture and guide their flock with love and dedication.
Demonstration 17 (Of Christ the Son of God)
0EXO 6:1DEU 32:39ISA 9:6ISA 53:5DAN 9:26Aphraates addresses the Jews who blaspheme the Gentiles for worshiping Jesus as the Son of God, countering their argument by explaining that righteous men like Moses were also called 'God' by God Himself. He emphasizes that Jesus, as the Son of God, is the King, Light of light, Creator, and Redeemer, with various names that signify His divinity. Aphraates further explains how the prophets foretold the coming of Jesus as the Son of God, citing verses from David and Isaiah that point to His divine nature and role as the Prince of peace.
Demonstration 21 (Of Persecution)
0Aphraates preaches about the persecution faced by Jesus and various righteous individuals throughout history, drawing parallels between their sufferings and the challenges faced by believers. He emphasizes the comfort and strength that can be found in the examples of those who endured persecution for their faith, highlighting the ultimate victory and glory that awaits those who remain faithful. The sermon underscores the importance of standing firm in the face of persecution, trusting in God's deliverance and the power of the Holy Spirit to guide and strengthen believers through trials.
Demonstration 22 (Of Death and the 50atter Times)
0GEN 2:17DEU 33:6ISA 26:19MAT 5:3MAT 7:12LUK 20:38JHN 4:36JHN 14:21CO 6:31CO 15:55GAL 6:6Aphraates preaches about the concepts of death, judgment, and resurrection, emphasizing how death ruled over humanity due to Adam's transgression but was challenged by Moses proclaiming resurrection. Jesus, as the Life-giver, defeated Death by His crucifixion, bringing hope of resurrection and eternal life. The sermon delves into the different destinies of the righteous and the wicked in the afterlife, highlighting the importance of faith, good works, and repentance. Aphraates encourages believers to remember death, live in righteousness, and prepare for the judgment day when all will be rewarded according to their deeds.