That is part of the problem. The hermits did not know theology yet they walked on water. The bishop couldn't -- his theology and Holy orders notwithstanding.
Theology is not faith. It took me a while to realize that. Theology is a rationalization of faith, within our capacities.
Jesus did not give us theology; he gave us commandments: love your God with all your heart and with all your soul and your neighbor as much as yourself.
You know what MarMema, we can't do it. We all sink! So we invent theology to 'justify' our inability to walk on water. People who have faith do not need theology.
Jesus did not tell us to cross, or to cross with three fingers...what you don't understand is that 99% of what we do in church is human invention.
If you denied yourself the Eucharist because you didn't think you were worthy of it, then maybe you can in clear conscience deny someone else for the same reason. Just because you are Orthodox does not make you better, nor more worthy in the yes of God.
As for the standard worn-out cliche of the more holy and wise people, should I remind you that the wisest fell into error (Tertullian, Origen) and the listing of anti-semitic Christian fathers is proof that none is above sin or error.
Which is a story to introduce the belief in the Orthodox church that clergy are not more able to access the Truth than the simplest peasant. And also points out that we don't emphasize theology but constant prayer, in the Orthodox church.
Yes. That is why we are conciliar and rely on concensus.
Be that as it may, Kosta, the "externals" are helpful in guiding the "internals".
That is true Kosta. And also what the church teaches.
Which complements your tagline....how?