Understanding Eastern Orthodoxy: A Reformed Introduction, Part 1 (The Church and Scripture)

Join us for this special introductory livestream where Dr. Camden Bucey offers an accessible first look at Eastern Orthodoxy from a Reformed theological perspective. This session represents only the beginning of our exploration into this tradition. Drawing from leading introductory texts—including works by Andrew Louth, Timothy Ware, Anthony Coniaris, and Frederica Mathewes-Green—Camden guides us through the fundamental themes and distinctives of Eastern Orthodox theology and practice.

In this initial presentation, we’ll examine key doctrines such as Scripture, the Church, the Trinity, and theosis, while also considering the underlying assumptions that shape Orthodox spirituality. What distinguishes Orthodoxy from Protestantism—not just in its answers, but in the questions it asks?

This introductory session is designed for:

• Reformed Christians seeking to understand the profound theological differences between Orthodox and Reformed interpretations of Scripture
• Those wanting to recognize how Eastern Orthodoxy’s foundational assumptions and hermeneutical approaches diverge significantly from Reformed convictions
• Viewers interested in discerning the substantial distinctions in how these traditions approach authority, salvation, and worship
• Those who desire to strengthen their grasp of Reformed theology by understanding a tradition that takes significantly different paths on core doctrines

This livestream serves as an entry point for further exploration. Future sessions will explore these complex theological matters in greater detail. Join us for this engaging first exploration.

Chapters

• 09:54 Introduction and Livestream Overview
• 11:41 Reformed Forum Conference
• 15:51 Why Study Eastern Orthodoxy from a Reformed Perspective
• 18:10 Survey of Key Introductory Eastern Orthodox Books
• 20:56 Historical Overview and the Great Schism
• 27:55 Scripture and Tradition in Eastern Orthodoxy
• 34:17 The Reformed View of Scripture’s Authority
• 34:46 Doctrine of the Church and Councils
• 43:06 Communion of the Saints and Veneration of Saints
• 54:19 Unity and Diversity in the Church

Participants: Camden Bucey