Holy Tradition (Part 2)

Fr. Matthias Shehad explores the concept of Holy Tradition as the teachings and practices handed down from Christ and the Apostles that are not explicitly recorded in the Bible. He explains how tradition predates the written Scriptures and was critical for preserving the faith through oral transmission before the New Testament was compiled. Fr. Matthias discusses the authority of the Apostolic councils in interpreting and establishing church practice, emphasizing that these decisions are binding for believers. He illustrates how Old Testament examples, such as sacrifices by Abel and Noah and the priesthood of Melchizedek, point to longstanding traditions that existed before formal laws were written. The talk highlights the distinction between sound and vain traditions and the role of church authority in maintaining correct doctrine and practice. Fr. Matthias stresses the ongoing importance of Holy Tradition alongside Scripture for understanding and living out the Christian faith.