Double Edged Sword ♱ Assyrian Church Podcast

In this powerful episode we dive deep into Acts 13:25-30, where Saint Paul delivers his transformative first sermon in Antioch. Fresh from Easter and Passion Week reflections, we explore the profound significance of Jesus Christ’s crucifixion and resurrection, the cornerstone of Christian faith. Paul’s message highlights how Old Testament prophecies—at least 28, including Genesis 3:15 and Zecharia...

Episode 121: Pinpointing Temptation

In this week’s episode of Double Edged Sword, '25 Down, 25 to Go,' Father Genard leads us to the midpoint of the Great Fast with a stirring call to deepen our faith. Marking 25 days of Lent completed and 25 to go, he reflects on a childhood memory to urge believers not to turn back, but to press forward in devotion to our Lord Jesus Christ. This episode explores the true heart of fasting—beyond ab...

Why do we face temptations, especially during fasting? In this episode of  Double Edged Sword , explore how temptation is a universal struggle—from Adam and Eve to Christ Himself—and a vital part of our spiritual journey. Discover why we should rejoice in these trials, not despair, as they test and strengthen us through God’s grace. Learn how Satan targets our weaknesses, how Jesus overcame, and h...

Join Father Genard as he explores the deeper meaning of fasting in this inspiring Christian podcast episode. Moving beyond the 40 days of Lent, he emphasizes that true fasting isn’t just about abstaining from food like dairy, poultry, and meat—it’s a lifelong call to repentance, obedience to God’s Word, and spiritual discipline. Drawing from scriptures such as Isaiah 40:8, Matthew 6:16-18, and Eph...

Episode 117: Persuaded by the Forgiveness of Sins

Episode 116: Learning from Jonah’s reluctancy

Episode 115: What you Missed out On

In this episode, Father Genard explores the relationship between faith, love, obedience, and authority in Christianity. It emphasizes that true Christian faith is not just about believing in God, but living out that belief through actions, particularly love and obedience to God's commandments. The speaker quotes St. John Chrysostom, highlighting that love for Christ is expressed through obedie...

Episode 113: Paul Proclaims the Resurrection

In this episode, Father Genard delves deeply into Acts chapter 13, focusing on St. Paul's sermon and its rich theological implications. He begins by exploring the way St. Paul uses the history of the Jewish people to remind them of God’s promises, which were ultimately fulfilled in the person of Jesus Christ. Paul’s message is clear: the salvation through Jesus Christ was written in the Old Testam...

In this episode, Father Genard discusses the themes of faith, trust in God, and the continuity between the Old and New Testaments. He reflects on the importance of aligning oneself with God’s will, emphasizing that despite the turmoil, suffering, and challenges in the world, God remains in control. Drawing inspiration from the Gospel of St. Mark, Father Genard recounts the story of Jesus calming t...

In this episode presented by Father Genard, we delve into Acts Chapter 13, exploring the early missionary work of the Church and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Father Genard highlights the Holy Spirit's role in directing the Apostles during worship and fasting, as seen when Saul (Paul) and Barnabas were set apart for ministry to the Gentiles. He reflects on the mystery of God's communication—thr...

In this episode, Father Genard reflects on the profound work of the Holy Trinity in the Church and the essential practices that uphold the Christian faith. He begins by discussing the unity of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, emphasizing that these three are one in power, glory, and understanding. He highlights the importance of the Holy Trinity, particularly in the example of Jesus' baptism, whe...

In this episode, Father Genard discusses Acts 12:19-24, focusing on the themes of humility, glorifying God, and the dangers of vain glory. He reflects on Herod’s punishment for failing to give glory to God after being praised as divine, emphasizing the importance of redirecting all honor to the Lord. Drawing parallels to modern life, Father Genard explores how hardships, like famine and loss, ofte...

Experience the powerful and inspiring message from the 2024 Diocese Retreat’s Eucharistic Service, centered around the theme “Peace Be With Us” (John 14:27). Dive deep into the reflections on Christ’s ministry, his unshakable responses to opposition, and the fulfillment of the law through love and grace. This heartfelt homily reminds us of the peace Christ offers, the transformative power of faith...

In this episode, Father Genard reflects on the "down times" we experience in life—those moments when we feel spiritually drained, discouraged, or disconnected. He examines how these times of struggle, confusion, and disappointment can actually become opportunities for growth, self-reflection, and spiritual renewal. Drawing from personal experience and Scripture, Father Genard encourages us to make...

In this episode, Father Genard reflects on the power of prayer, focusing on Acts chapter 12, where we witness the church's earnest prayers being answered. The story of Simon Peter's miraculous release from prison highlights the impact of the church's prayers. Father Genard delves into the details of the event, where Simon is bound in chains, awaiting execution, and yet, through God's divine interv...

In this episode, Father Genard discusses the themes of faith and divine intervention amid persecution in the early church, focusing on the events surrounding the imprisonment of Simon Peter. He reflects on the martyrdom of James and the earnest prayers offered for Simon, who, despite his dire circumstances, finds peace and comfort in God's promises. Father Genard emphasizes the significance of rem...

In this episode, Father Genard explores Acts 12:1-5, focusing on the persecution of the early Christians by Herod, who killed James, the brother of John. He raises the question of why God allows such suffering, suggesting that it serves as a warning to the Jewish people and demonstrates the triumph of faith even in death. Father Genard emphasizes that James's martyrdom reinforces Christ as the tru...

In this reflection, Father Genard explores the significance of being properly attired for the wedding feast, drawing on biblical passages like Matthew 22:11-14 and Luke 14:15-35. He emphasizes that the wedding garment symbolizes love, highlighting that while faith and baptism are crucial, they must be accompanied by genuine love to fully partake in the community of the church.  He warns against be...

In this episode, Father Genard discusses God’s sovereignty and ownership over creation, emphasizing themes from Matthew 20:15, which highlights God’s right to do as He pleases with what is His. He poses a significant question: What exists that does not belong to God? He explores the nature of good and evil, referencing Isaiah 45:7, which states that God creates both light and darkness, as well as...

In this podcast episode, Father Genard delves into the power of faith as taught by Jesus in Matthew 17:20, where He explains that faith as small as a mustard seed can move mountains. Father Genard reflects on the significance of having an undivided faith, highlighting how even the smallest amount can bring about miraculous change. Through biblical examples, such as the disciples' struggles and the...

In this episode of Double Edged Sword, Father Genard Lazar sits down with His Holiness Mar Awa III to explore the profound teachings of the Holy Spirit as they illuminate the Sacred Scriptures and the Tradition of the One, Holy, Catholic, and Apostolic Church. We delve into the life in Christ, where humanity is called to partake in the divine nature and pursue sanctification through consecrated ce...

In this episode, Father Genard discusses the profound significance of prayer as a universal medicine prescribed by Christ. He explains that prayer, like a remedy, is accessible to all, regardless of status or belief, and is a vital tool for both health and healing. Father Genard emphasizes that prayer should be approached with humility, as taught in Christ’s parables, and that it should be done wi...