The only surefire way to save ourselves: unwaveringly following the teachings of the Holy Fathers

With the heart one believes unto righteousness, said the apostle, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation (Romans 10:10). We must confess righteousness with the mouth and, when possible, with the very deed. Righteousness confessed by words and deeds becomes real, becomes a good of man. And since it is essential, it is a sure pledge of salvation.

You have convinced yourselves that the only infallible means of salvation is the unwavering following of the teaching of the Holy Fathers, accompanied by the resolute rejection of any foreign teaching, even from your own reasonings, as long as reason is not cured of its disease and does not become spiritual from what it is carnal and soulful. After you have recognized this righteousness with your mind and heart, confess it with your mouth; Promise God that you will be guided by the teaching of the Holy Fathers, avoiding any teaching that is not confirmed by the Holy Spirit, that is not accepted by the Holy Church of the East. Having confessed the righteousness of God with your mouth, confess it also with your deeds: having made a promise, fulfill it.

Do not be afraid of this promise! Every Orthodox son of the Church is obliged to give it, it must be demanded of every son of the Orthodox Church by his spiritual father when he performs the Sacrament of Confession.

Saint Ignatius Brianchaninov

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