To live the Orthodox life there is obviously much more to learn. You may find that you are not currently living all the ten points outlined in this booklet. Remember, being an Orthodox Christian is to be on a path of continual growth. As we come closer to God, we learn more clearly what He expects of us. As we grow closer to Him, He provides us with greater ability to practice His teachings. We are all sinners and the Church is the place we come for spiritual direction and forgiveness. In God’s eyes it is never too late to change our ways. Not only does he expect us to be perfect as He is perfect, but He is most merciful to the those who are the greatest sinners.

Reflect on each of these points and seek ways to include them in your current life, no matter how busy or hectic it is, and you will find that you will grow spiritually. As you grow you will find all you need to know. One caution: This is not a list to pick and choose from. It is very important to include ALL of the points in your way of life. They are interrelated. Not one of them is sufficient on its own.

A final thought from our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ:

“Every one who acknowledges me before men, I also will acknowledge before my Father who is in heaven; but whoever denies me before men, I also will deny him before my Father who is in heaven. He who loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me; and he who loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me; and he who does not take his cross and follow me is not worthy of me.”

Peter replied to Jesus, “Lo, we have left everything and followed you. What then shall we have?”

Jesus said to them, “Truly, I say to you, in the new world, when the Son of man shall sit on his glorious throne, you who have followed me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. And every one who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or lands, for my name’s sake, will receive a hundredfold, and inherit eternal life. But many that are first will be last, and the last first.”

From Matthew 10:32-33; 37-38; 19:27-30

CLICK HERE to download the Ten Point Program as a PDF