"That was his answer, not mine. Ask him."
I took your post to mean that it was your interpretation of his "attitude" which lead you to believe that that is what FL said. My point is that the comment at base is true and correct, though no Orthodox person would express it that way because such a comment is too simplistic. The Liturgy and the quote from +Gregory of Sinai expresses the belief of The Church which I have no doubt FL confesses. A titheist, however, would quickly and loudly proclaim such a comment heresy.
A Trinitarian would consider anyone who suggests "The Father is the Son" to be harboring heretical doctrine.
The truth is, though, that you are supporting your friend and not what he, for the sake of debate, tiptoed around.