“Personal Reflections on Historical Christian Theology”

Personal Reflections on Historical Christian Theology

The Second Century

Historical Background to the Patristic Age

The origins of Christianity have been traced back to Jerusalem. Christianity was founded in the first century. The first period of Christianity is referred to the Patristic Age which spanned from C. 100-C.700.

If we analyze the history of Christianity and the 'Patristic Age' closely, we would realize that the period has been subjected to many controversies and misconceptions. However, I believe that patristic age is responsible for the popularity and wide acceptance of Christianity today. This is because, between the periods of C.100-.700, Christianity was in its initial period and the world was not exposed to Christianity as such. Judaism was widely practiced at that time along with other religions. Thinking from the perspective of an orthodox Christian, one has to credit the Christian Evangelists for creating its awareness and to taking up the challenge of its preaching. There were many evangelists who took up the task, but primarily 'Paul' of Tarsus is responsible for creating its awareness.

The theology rested on two distinct, but prime doctrines i.e. the incarnation of Jesus Christ- him being the eternal son of God. The other being that he was born of Mary and got the body from being born.

Historically, in the Pre-Patristic age, the major religion of the region was Judaism. Many people believe that due to its similarities with Judaism; it did not seem alien to the native people and they started accepting it and thought it was an improvised form of the same religion with uniform teachings. But, on a personal note I believe that religion has always been a subject that has been resistant to change and its teachings have been deep inculcated in throughout the history of mankind. In my opinion, it was the basic teachings of Christianity in the Patristic age that convinced the people on its authenticity and beliefs.

Another important feature was the basic structuring of the religion and countering the various controversies by the deacons, priests and bishops of that time. For the world, this newly found belief was alien and they had no exposure to it. The guardian's of the fate at that time upheld its prestige and informed the people about the truth and its actual teachings. Another major contribution was the formation of various clerical orders comprising the priests, bishops and deacons. Such a feature gave the religion a physical face to address any misconceptions or contradictions that one felt.

Hence I believe that the pre-Patristic age and the patristic age could be associated with the establishment of pure Christian doctrines, rituals and orthodoxy that still continues to exist all over the world.

The Third Century

Tertullian and the Origins of Latin Theology

The third century in the history of Christian theology is primarily remembered due to Tertullian (c.155-c.245) in my opinion. A close analysis of the time period reveals that he was the most remarkable speaker for Christianity and could be solely attributed to the ...