In our 19th episode of Church History, Pastor Lance explores reclusive lives of the earliest hermits, monks and ascetics. We are taken on a journey through the origins of these extreme practices, and meet the founders who shaped it's impact and trajectory. From Anthony the Great and his biographer Athanasius of Alexandria, to Jerome (who would later pen the Vulgate), Simon Stylites the Elder, Basil the Great, and Benedict of Nursia - each story helps us understand the roots of traditions that would come to define this pre-medieval period; and still influence many thousands for centuries thereafter. Pastor Lance concludes the episode with a point of contrast and caution - whereas the monastic and ascetic lifestyles strongly resonated with Christians of the 5th - 7th Centuries, quite another extreme has overtaken the church in our modern day - the specter of Progressivism and relativism, as well as all manner of celebrating and elevating the Self. ???? ??? ???? ???????? ?? ???? ?????? ?? ?????? ???????? Let us know in the comments! ? For extensive commentary on the entire Bible, in 10+ languages, visit the Enduring Word website: https://enduringword.com/ ? Download the Enduring Word app today! iPhone: https://apple.co/3X1sryZ Android: https://bit.ly/3ixdC8f ?️ Watch the full Church History series playlist here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL_QIfO0mxbX4I3CQ9O97gcxP_uKMFPgNf Pastor Lance Ralston founded and lead-pastored Calvary Chapel Oxnard, California for nearly 40 years. In addition to serving on the Executive Board for Enduring Word, he is an author, holds a Master's degree in Biblical Studies and Ministry, and leads the Communio Sanctorum podcast, which delivers engaging & scholarly journeys into Church History without the slant of Academia. Discover more at: ? Communio Sanctorum: https://www.sanctorum.us/ ? Pastor Lance's channel: @INTOHISIMAGE ⛪️ CC Oxnard: https://calvaryoxnard.org/ ? Read '??? ????,' Enduring Word's new devotional, thinkpiece, and Christian living blog authored by renowned pastors and Bible teachers: https://post.enduringword.com/ #bible #christian #faith #churchhistory #asceticism #history ... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p4dxwCcm-ew

This is a daily devotional by Pastor David Guzik. Enduring Words for Troubled Times. Here is a link to David Guzik's commentary on 2 Kings 5: https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/2-kings-5/ ... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BxKPg2slwz4