Category: Schaff 2014 - Wittenberg Door Campus Ministry

Bridging the Gap

11/16/2020

Mondays are for Church History
11/16/20

Schaff, Philip. History of the Christian Church (The Complete Eight Volumes in One). Amazon Kindle Edition, 2014.
Volume 2, Ante-Nicene Christianity A.D. 100-325, “Chapter 13. Ecclesiastical Literature of the Ante-Nicene Age, and Biographical Sketches of the Church Fathers.” sec. 159-204.
§ 204. Eusebius, Lactantius, Hosius.

Schaff introduces Eusebius, Lactantius, and Hosius at the end of the period covered in volume two, though they will be dealt with at greater length in volume three. All three bridged the third and fourth centuries (Schaff 2014, loc. 33592, par. 3). Schaff describes them as cultured and eloquent. During this time he sees church history, especially in the West, as coming into its own.

The three leaders all saw the Diocletian persecution as well as the start of imperial patronage. They thus "carried the moral forces of the age of martyrdom into the age of victory" (Schaff 2014, loc. 33598, par. 4). All were close associates of Constantine. Schaff considers them to have been instrumental in shaping the mperor's view of Christianity (Schaff 2014, loc. 23605, par. 5).

Volume 2 of Schaff's Church History closes with a few pages of addenda and corrigenda, mainly additions to the literature reviews.

At this point, I will suspend my Monday blog posts on Church History, which have been walking through Schaff for quite a long time. My doctoral research needs to take some precedence. I'll continue Monday posts which will be based on chapters and articles I am reading for that work.

Victorinus of Petau

11/9/2020

Mondays are for Church History
11/9/20

Schaff, Philip. History of the Christian Church (The Complete Eight Volumes in One). Amazon Kindle Edition, 2014.
Volume 2, Ante-Nicene Christianity A.D. 100-325, “Chapter 13. Ecclesiastical Literature of the Ante-Nicene Age, and Biographical Sketches of the Church Fathers.” sec. 159-204.
§ 203. Victorinus of Petau.

Schaff introduces Victorinus as a rhetorician who became a bishop in Paona before dying as a martyr in 303 (Schaff 2014, loc. 23552, par. 2). Jerome lists numerous written works by Victorinus, though Schaff considers them to be without merit. However, he does summarize a few highlights of the work of Victorinus, none of them striking.

Arnobius

11/2/2020

Mondays are for Church History
11/2/20

Schaff, Philip. History of the Christian Church (The Complete Eight Volumes in One). Amazon Kindle Edition, 2014.
Volume 2, Ante-Nicene Christianity A.D. 100-325, “Chapter 13. Ecclesiastical Literature of the Ante-Nicene Age, and Biographical Sketches of the Church Fathers.” sec. 159-204.
§ 202. Arnobius.

Arnobius, an adult convert to Christ, was a rhetoric teacher near Carthage around the turn of the fourth century (Schaff 2014, loc. 23492, par. 2). Schaff notes that Arnobius' conversion was striking in the change it brought to his life (Schaff 2014, loc. 23505, ;ar. 3). He is only mentioned by Jerome. Arnobius leaves us "an Apology of Christianity in seven books of unequal length" (Schaff 2014, loc. 23502, par. 5). The allusions to the Diocletian Persecution point to composition about 303.

Schaff observes that Arnobius' speciality seems to be pagan mythology, but that he does not seem to know much of the Bible (Schaff 2014, loc. 23518, par. 7). However, Arnobius seems to have a fairly clear picture of the nature of God (Schaff 2014, loc. 23524, par. 8). Arnobius' theology does miss the mark of mature orthodoxy. Schaff notes that his writing was partly banned, mostly forgotten. However, the writing does show "the honesty, courage, and enthusiasm of the convert for his new faith" (Schaff 2014, loc. 23531, par. 13).

Commodian, a Minor Christian Poet

10/26/2020

Mondays are for Church History
10/26//20

Schaff, Philip. History of the Christian Church (The Complete Eight Volumes in One). Amazon Kindle Edition, 2014.
Volume 2, Ante-Nicene Christianity A.D. 100-325, “Chapter 13. Ecclesiastical Literature of the Ante-Nicene Age, and Biographical Sketches of the Church Fathers.” sec. 159-204.
§ 201. Commodian.

Schaff identifies Commodian as a North African who converted to Christianity due to study of Scripture. He was probably a clergyman (Schaff 2014, loc. 23452, par. 2). He is known to have written two poetic works, in inferior Latin. Schaff considers them "theologically worthless, but not unimportant for the history of practical Christianity" (Schaff 2014, loc. 23458, par. 3). They show theology of the time as well as linguistic transitions of the period. Schaff describes the two poems and their content. The works are focused on eschatology and warnings to those who do not live in light of the end.

Novatian, an Anti-Pope

10/19/2020

Mondays are for Church History
10/19//20

Schaff, Philip. History of the Christian Church (The Complete Eight Volumes in One). Amazon Kindle Edition, 2014.
Volume 2, Ante-Nicene Christianity A.D. 100-325, “Chapter 13. Ecclesiastical Literature of the Ante-Nicene Age, and Biographical Sketches of the Church Fathers.” sec. 159-204.
§ 200. Novatian.

After a fairly extensive bibliography Schaff identifies Novatian as "the second Roman anti-Pope" (Schaff 2014, loc. 23406, par. 2), a figure who resembles Hippolytus as well as Tertullian. It is significant that his writing shows skillful use of Latin. Schaff rather incidentally observes that the Roman church at this time, mid 3rd century, "may have amounted perhaps to about 50,000 members" (Schaff 2014, loc. 23412, par. 3). Though we don't know specific birth or death dates, the dated correspondence of Novatian is in 250-251.

In Novatian's time, the majority elected Cornelius as pope, but a minority elected Novatian as anti-Pope and he was consecrated before being denounced and excommunicated (Schaff 2014, loc. 23425, par. 6). The schism spread, between followers of Novatian and his strict view of discipline and others, who were more lenient. At issue were "the extent of the power of the Keys and the claims of justice to the purity of the church and of mercy towards the fallen" (Schaff 2014, loc. 23431, par. 7).

Schaff lists numerous written works of Novatian, two of which have survived. "The most important is his Liber de Trinitate (31 chs.) composed A.D. 256" (Schaff 2014, loc. 23431, par. 8).

Cyprian of Carthage, Rhetorical Bishop

10/12/2020

Mondays are for Church History
10/12//20

Schaff, Philip. History of the Christian Church (The Complete Eight Volumes in One). Amazon Kindle Edition, 2014.
Volume 2, Ante-Nicene Christianity A.D. 100-325, “Chapter 13. Ecclesiastical Literature of the Ante-Nicene Age, and Biographical Sketches of the Church Fathers.” sec. 159-204.
§ 199. Cyprian.

After a relatively extensive bibliography, Schaff introduces us to Cyprian's life (Schaff 2014, loc. 23299, par. 1). Born about 200 A.D. in Carthage, Cyprian was, according to Jerome, a rhetoric teacher of considerable reputation. After becoming a Christian, Cyprian gave his wealth to the poor, vowed chastity, and was baptized in 245 or 246 (Schaff 2014, loc. 23306, par. 2). His spiritual father, Caecilius, lived in his household. Schaff quotes at length from a description by Cyprian of his conversion and the changes which took place in his overall attitudes (Schaff 2014, loc. 23313, par. 3). Cyprian plunged into study of Scripture and especially Tertullian, who had a profound influence on him (Schaff 2014, loc. 23319, par. 4). After approximately two years, and against his will, Cyprian was elevated to the position of bishop of Carthage, making him the head of all clergy in North Africa (Schaff 2014, loc. 23325, par. 5). Though this move created dissension and even a schism, Schaff considers it exactly the right decision. Cyprian served as bishop of Carthage for ten years before being exiled and beheaded in the persecution of Valerian (Schaff 2014, loc. 23332, par. 7) on September 14, 258.

Schaff recognizes Cyprian as the most able bishop of the third century. He was more noteworthy in his work pertaining to church organization and church discipline, particularly in cases of schismatic movements (Schaff 2014, loc. 23346, par. 9). He was zealous for both the independence of bishops and for Roman primacy (Schaff 2014, loc. 23352, par. 9). Schaff considers this to be rooted in a respect for the collegiality of the different bishops. Cyprian did flee from his congregation in the Decian persecution, saying that he wished to guard his life so as to be able to care for the flock through epistles (Schaff 2014, loc. 23358, par. 10).

Cyrian is not known as a prolific or original author. Schaff does detail "his tract on the Unity of the Church (A.D. 251)" (Schaff 2014, loc. 23371, par. 12). He did write many Epistles to bishops and other pastors. He also wrote a number of moral works, urging modesty and humility. Schaff also mentions two apologetic works which he considers unimportant (Schaff 2014, loc. 23385, par. 13).

Minucius Felix, a Latin Christian Author

10/5/2020

10/5/20

Schaff, Philip. History of the Christian Church (The Complete Eight Volumes in One). Amazon Kindle Edition, 2014.
Volume 2, Ante-Nicene Christianity A.D. 100-325, “Chapter 13. Ecclesiastical Literature of the Ante-Nicene Age, and Biographical Sketches of the Church Fathers.” sec. 159-204.
§ 198. Minucius Felix.

After an extensive bibliography, Schaff describes Minucius Felix as a zealous convert, about the time of Tertullian (Schaff 2014, loc. 23200, par. 7). He used classical culture in service to Christianity, becoming the first important Latin author among Christians (Schaff 2014, loc. 23206, par. 8). Minucius Felix is known for a dialogue which serves as a defense of Christianity. Schaff summarizes the arguments, with the pagan being represented by “Caecilius Natalis.” Among the charges lodged against Christians are incest and killing of children (Schaff 2014, loc. 23220, par. 10). The Christian response, in the mouth of “Octavius,” refutes the charges and describes the futility of idolatry (Schaff 2014, loc. 23233, ,par. 11). Schaff observes that the character Caecilius is persuaded by the end of the dialogue (Schaff 2014, loc. 23239, par. 13).

Schaff views the work to be significant in terms of apologetics, but not as regards doctrine (Schaff 2014, loc. 23239, par. 14). Christianity may be seen as a “true philosophy” but the doctrinal content is not terribly solid or compelling. Schaff does find the Latin usage and form to be pleasant and reminiscent of Cicero (Schaff 2014, loc. 23252, par. 15).

In comparison of Tertullian and Minucius Felix, Schaff concludes that Minucius may have been earlier and depended on Tertullian at times. However, this is not entirely conclusive (Schaff 2014, loc. 23270, par. 17).

Tertullian as an Austere Polemicist

9/28/2020

Mondays are for Church History
9/28/20

Schaff, Philip. History of the Christian Church (The Complete Eight Volumes in One). Amazon Kindle Edition, 2014.
Volume 2, Ante-Nicene Christianity A.D. 100-325, “Chapter 13. Ecclesiastical Literature of the Ante-Nicene Age, and Biographical Sketches of the Church Fathers.” sec. 159-204.
§ 197. The Writings of Tertullian.

Schaff views Tertullian’s writings as foundational to our understanding of Christianity in his time, at the end of the second century and beginning of the third (Schaff 2014, loc. 23092, par. 1)). Schaff does remind us of Tertullian’s austere Montanism, which prompted him to write numerous “tracts against the Catholics” (Schaff 2014, loc. 23097, par. 2). His apologetics speaks forcefully to defend Christianity and argue for its legal status (Schaff 2014, loc. 23100, par. 3). Schaff reviews a number of different apologetic works, noting the different purposes and themes.

Tertullian’s “polemic works are occupied chiefly with the refutation of the Gnostics” (Schaff 2014, loc. 23127, par. 7). In these works, Schaff finds chiefly forensic arguments which demand the Gnostics stop appropriating Christian terms and ideas.

Schaff lists a number of Tertullian’s tracts (Schaff 2014, loc. 23147, par. 10), important as descriptions of doctrine as people of his time period would understand it.

Schaff notes that Tertullian makes references to corrent events, which helps scholars identify his chronology (Schaff 2014, loc. 23161, par. 13). Based on this information, Schaff attempts a chronology of Tertullian’s works.

Tertullian (of Carthage)

9/21/2020

Mondays are for Church History
9/21/20

Schaff, Philip. History of the Christian Church (The Complete Eight Volumes in One). Amazon Kindle Edition, 2014.
Volume 2, Ante-Nicene Christianity A.D. 100-325, “Chapter 13. Ecclesiastical Literature of the Ante-Nicene Age, and Biographical Sketches of the Church Fathers.” sec. 159-204.
§ 196. Tertullian and the African School.

After an extensive bibliography, Schaff observes that Latin Christianity arose at the end of the second century. However, it was centered in Carthage (Schaff 2014, loc. 22955, par. 1). Schaff also notes that the literature appeared rather suddenly, as opposed to a gradual unfolding.

Schaff provides us with an account of Tertullian’s life, since Tertullian is so prominent in this African movement of Latin Christianity (Schaff 2014, loc. 22960, par. 2). Tertullian was a native Carthaginian, born about 150 to a Roman legionary captain. He was well educated and devoted to political speech (Schaff 2014, loc. 22965, par. 2). He converted to Christianity near the end of the 2ned century, becoming ardent in his zeal, his dedication to family, and self-denial (Schaff 2014, loc. 22979, par. 3). Around the turn of the third century, Tertullian became associated with Montanism, a move Schaff considers consistent with Tertullian’s tendency to make radical moves in one direction or another (Schaff 2014, loc. 22980, par. 4). Despite his asceticism, Tertullian defended orthodox doctrinal stances (Schaff 2014, loc. 22985, par. 4).

Schaff compared Hippolytus and Tertullian, as their lives had considerable overlap (Schaff 2014, loc. 23000, par. 7). Hippolytus is known for charging popes with heresy and pursuing a very rigorous Christian life.

Schaff considers Tertullian as a very energetic character (Schaff 2014, loc. 23005, par. 8). He wrote in very forceful terms, showing an extensive grasp of philosophy and history (Schaff 2014, loc. 23019, par. 9). Schaff repeatedly compares Tertullian to Luther in his forceful manner of writing and his unwillingness to indulge heretics and other misinformed opponents.

Schaff continues with “gems from Tertullian’s writings” (Schaff 2014, loc. 23034, par. 12). He concludes that Tertullian expresses the great value of freedom of conscience. This was seen in free exercise of worship, which was a departure from the practices of other parts of culture (Schaff 2014, loc. 23043, par. 11).

Schaff closes this section by quoting various scholars’ statements about Tertullian’s character and writing (Schaff 2014, loc. 23043, par. 12).

Antiochian Theology

9/14/2020

Mondays are for Church History
9/14/20

Schaff, Philip. History of the Christian Church (The Complete Eight Volumes in One). Amazon Kindle Edition, 2014.
Volume 2, Ante-Nicene Christianity A.D. 100-325, “Chapter 13. Ecclesiastical Literature of the Ante-Nicene Age, and Biographical Sketches of the Church Fathers.” sec. 159-204.
§ 195. The Antiochian School.

Before we dig into the Antiochian School, a friend and scholar recently observed to me that citation of electronic books without real page numbers generally involves identification of the paragraph in which an idea or quotation is found, rather than using a location number based on the specific edition used. I’ll try to provide both a Kindle location number and a paragraph number within the section.

The Antiochian school of Theology, according to Schaff, was founded, not by Lucian and Dorotheus, but by “Diodorus, bishop of Tarsus (. A.D. 379-394), and Theodorus, bishop of Mopsuestia (393-428), both formerly presbyters of Antioch” (Schaff 2014, loc. 22897, par. 1). This school was not an institution, such as that of Alexandria, “but a theological tendency” (Schaff 2014, loc. 22897, par. 2). The emphasis was on grammatical and historical exegesis, in contrast to the allegorical work done in Alexandria. Schaff sees this as a positive development, as it curbs fanciful interpretive efforts. However, it can lead to other errors in interpretation (Schaff 2014, loc. 22907, par. 2).

Schaff appends a note to this section. In a dispute between Cardinal Newman and Cardinal Hergenröthen, Newman considered the Antiochian School to be responsible for Arianism (Schaff 2014, loc. 22912, par. 3). Schaff quotes Hergenröthen’s response at length, in German (Schaff 2014, loc. 22917, par. 4). In brief, Hergenröthen considers textual exegesis to protect the original understanding of the work better than allegorical interpretation.

Lucian of Antioch

9/7/2020

Mondays are for Church History
9/7/20

Schaff, Philip. History of the Christian Church (The Complete Eight Volumes in One). Amazon Kindle Edition, 2014.
Volume 2, Ante-Nicene Christianity A.D. 100-325, “Chapter 13. Ecclesiastical Literature of the Ante-Nicene Age, and Biographical Sketches of the Church Fathers.” sec. 159-204.
§ 194. Lucian of Antioch.

Schaff introduces Lucian of Antioch as a presbyter and a martyr during the Diocletian persecution (Schaff 2014, loc. 22862). He died in 311, possibly on January 7, his memorial day, in Antioch (Schaff 2014, loc. 22868). There was some question of his theological orthodoxy, though apparently the disputes were resolved before his martyrdom (Schaff 2014, loc. 22873).

Schaff notes a creed bearing Lucian’s name, found after his martyrdom. He considers it thoroughly orthodox in nature (Schaff 2014, loc. 22878).

Lucian is also remembered for a revision of the Septuagint and of the New Testament in Greek (Schaff 2014, loc. 22887). Jerome was not pleased with the quality of the work, but Schaff notes we cannot evaluate it.

Not Origen

8/31/2020

Mondays are for Church History
8/31/20

Schaff, Philip. History of the Christian Church (The Complete Eight Volumes in One). Amazon Kindle Edition, 2014.
Volume 2, Ante-Nicene Christianity A.D. 100-325, “Chapter 13. Ecclesiastical Literature of the Ante-Nicene Age, and Biographical Sketches of the Church Fathers.” sec. 159-204.
§ 193. Opponents of Origen. Methodius.

Schaff has previously shown Origen to be a controversial character. Methodius, an opponent to Origen, is not mentioned at all by Eusebius but is given considerable attention by Photius (Schaff 2014, loc. 22817). Others do mention Methodius favorably as well. Schaff observes that while some early opponents of Origen engaged him based on personal feeling, by the third century Methodius shifted the debate to be one of theological orthodoxy (Schaff 2014, loc. 22822).

Schaff introduces Methodius as “bishop first of Olympus and then of Patara” and identifies him as a martyr of the Diocletian persecution (Schaff 2014, loc. 22827). His most important work, written in the form of a Platonic dialogue, is his Banquet of Ten virgins which describes celibacy as the ideal life (Schaff 2014, loc. 22830). Schaff summarizes the events in the dialogue in brief. The Platonic style is very clear. Methodius wrote several additional dialogues, including On the Resurrection, On Freek Will, and On Things Created (Schaff 2014, loc. 22847).

et al. in the 3rd Century

8/24/2020

Mondays are for Church History
8/24/20

Schaff, Philip. History of the Christian Church (The Complete Eight Volumes in One). Amazon Kindle Edition, 2014.
Volume 2, Ante-Nicene Christianity A.D. 100-325, “Chapter 13. Ecclesiastical Literature of the Ante-Nicene Age, and Biographical Sketches of the Church Fathers.” sec. 159-204.
§ 192. Minor Divines of the Greek Church.

Schaff considers several third century divines to be worthy of mention. Heraclas and Plutarch, brothers, studied with Origen. Heraclas served as bishop of Alexandria from 233-248 (Schaff 2014, loc. 22782). Schaff also notes Theognostus, who is mentioned by both Athanasius and Photius (Schaff 2014, loc. 22787). Pierius was probably a teacher in the catechetical school of Alexandria around the year 300. Pamphilius, a teacher at Caesarea, was a strong promoter of theological education (Schaff 2014, loc. 22792). Peter was a bishop of Alexandria from 300 until he was beheaded in 311 (Schaff 2014, loc. 22797). Hierax, considered sometimes as a Manichaean heretic, was well respected for his exegetical work (Schaff 2014, loc. 22806).

Early Attempts at Biblical Chronology

8/17/2020

Mondays are for Church History
8/17/20

Schaff, Philip. History of the Christian Church (The Complete Eight Volumes in One). Amazon Kindle Edition, 2014.
Volume 2, Ante-Nicene Christianity A.D. 100-325, “Chapter 13. Ecclesiastical Literature of the Ante-Nicene Age, and Biographical Sketches of the Church Fathers.” sec. 159-204.
§ 191. Julius Africanus.

Schaff identifies Julius Africanus as “the first Christian chronograph and universal historian” (Schaff 2014, loc. 22747). He lived in Emmaus, but traveled widely before his death about A.D. 240. Eusebius draws on his work extensively, particularly his “chronography, in five books,” which provides a chronological history from creation to the year 221 (Schaff 2014, loc. 22752). Using the accession of Cyrus as a known historical date, Africanus computed both backward and forward, dating creation in B.C. 5499. He takes the life of Jesus to be 31 years (Schaff 2014, loc. 22761). Weveral works are referred to or exist in fragmentary form. Africanus harmonized the genealogies in Matthew and Luke, assuming Matthew to give the natural descent of Jesus and Luke to give his legal descent (Schaff 2014, loc. 22777).

Dionysius of Alexandria

8/10/2020

Mondays are for Church History
8/10/20

Schaff, Philip. History of the Christian Church (The Complete Eight Volumes in One). Amazon Kindle Edition, 2014.
Volume 2, Ante-Nicene Christianity A.D. 100-325, “Chapter 13. Ecclesiastical Literature of the Ante-Nicene Age, and Biographical Sketches of the Church Fathers.” sec. 159-204.
§ 190. Dionysius the Great.

Dionysius of Alexandria, also called “the Great” is carefully distinguished from Dionysius of Rome. Schaff dates his birth to about 190 (Schaff 2014, loc. 22711). He, like Gregory Thaumaturgus, converted to Christ under the influence of Origen and remained in a relationship with Origen and his thought. This did not always create a good reputation, as there were some questions about Origen’s orthodoxy, hence Dionysius’ orthodoxy was called into question. Dionysius fled the persecution of Decius but late, in 247, he was banished until 260 (Schaff 2014, loc. 22716). He worked in ministry through times of war, famine, and persecution until his death in 265.

Schaff observes that under Dionysius the Christians cared for the poor and needy, in stark contrast to the pagans, who “repelled the sick or cast them half-dead into the street” (Schaff 2014, loc. 22725). Schaff notes that despite controversy, Athanasius affirmed Dionysius’ orthodoxy (Schaff 2014, loc. 22731). His writings are largely known through fragments preserved in Eusebius.

3rd Century Miracle Worker

8/3/2020

Mondays are for Church History
8/3/20

Schaff, Philip. History of the Christian Church (The Complete Eight Volumes in One). Amazon Kindle Edition, 2014.
Volume 2, Ante-Nicene Christianity A.D. 100-325, “Chapter 13. Ecclesiastical Literature of the Ante-Nicene Age, and Biographical Sketches of the Church Fathers.” sec. 159-204.
§ 189. Gregory Thaumaturgus.

Schaff introduces Gregory Thaumaturgus as one of the most important disciples of Origen in Alexandria (Schaff 2014, loc. 22646). Gregory was converted by Origen, then learned from him for some eight years before serving as bishop in Neo-Caesarea in Pontus between 244 and 270 (Schaff 2014, loc. 22652). He was considered to have seen the conversion of all but about 17 people in his area of service during that time. Gregory’s works and a creed ascribed to him were not known by Eusebius, but by the end of the fourth century he was recognized as a teacher and a miracle worker (Schaff 2014, loc. 22657).

Schaff provides the Greek and a translation of the creed ascribed to Gregory, as it has come down to us (Schaff 2014, loc. 22672). Schaff further provides a partial catalog of miracles ascribed to Gregory by Gregory of Nyssa in the 4th century and defended by Cardinal Newman in the 19th century (Schaff 2014, loc. 22693).

He Wrote More than Most People Read in a Lifetime

7/27/2020

Mondays are for Church History
7/27/20

Schaff, Philip. History of the Christian Church (The Complete Eight Volumes in One). Amazon Kindle Edition, 2014.
Volume 2, Ante-Nicene Christianity A.D. 100-325, “Chapter 13. Ecclesiastical Literature of the Ante-Nicene Age, and Biographical Sketches of the Church Fathers.” sec. 159-204.
§ 188. The Works of Origen.

We have previously been introduced to Origen. Now Schaff reviews his writings which are quite extensive, including tracts, homilies, letters, books, and lectures, probably totalling about 6,000 works (Schaff 2014, loc. 22595).

Of note, Schaff discusses his Hexapla and Tetrapla, works which were 28 years in the making (Schaff 2014, loc. 22600). Each is a polyglot Bible, arranged in parallel columns. These comparative critical editions had notations of alterations and omissions, as well as marginal explanations. There remain only some fragments, as the original is thought to have been destroyed in the invasion of 653 (Schaff 2014, loc. 22609).

Origen also wrote commentaries on almost all the books of the Bible, either as brief notes on difficult passages, longer books of commentary, or homilies (Schaff 2014, loc. 22614). Most of what we have in this genre was translated by Jerome for common use.

There were also a number of polemic or apologetical works, particularly his refutation of Celsus (Schaff 2014, loc. 22619). Origen’s dogmatic works, which contain “Platonizing and Gnosticizing errors” led to questions about his theology, though Schaff says he retracted some of his views later in life (Schaff 2014, loc. 22625).

Origen

7/20/2020

Mondays are for Church History
7/20/20

Schaff, Philip. History of the Christian Church (The Complete Eight Volumes in One). Amazon Kindle Edition, 2014.
Volume 2, Ante-Nicene Christianity A.D. 100-325, “Chapter 13. Ecclesiastical Literature of the Ante-Nicene Age, and Biographical Sketches of the Church Fathers.” sec. 159-204.
§ 187. Origen.

Schaff provides a robust annotated bibliography for Origen. He then introduces Origen as “one of the most remarkable men in history for genius and learning, for the influence he exerted on his age, and for the controversies and discussions to which his opinions gave rise” (Schaff 2014, loc. 22507). He was raised in a Christian home in Alexandria and trained by his father, “probably a rhetorician.” At the age of 18 he took a position as the head of the Alexandrian catechetical school, after Clement’s flight under persecution (Schaff 2014, loc. 22517). Origen studied and traveled extensively.

Origen was known for a strict asceticism, refusing earthly goods which were not absolutely necessary. Schaff says he went so far as to emasculate himself, an act of which he later repented (Schaff 2014, loc. 22531).

Origen developed a reputation, by the year 231, of “corrupting Christianity by foreign speculations” (Schaff 2014, loc. 22536). Two councils demanded he be stripped of his office and responsibilities in the church. While Rome agreed, other regions did not. Origen stepped down willingly and started a new school in Palestine (Schaff 2014, loc. 22546). He continued in teaching, travel, and exhortation until his torture under Decius, which resulted in his later death, age 69, in 253 or 254 (Schaff 2014, loc. 22551).

Origen had a reputation as a brilliant theologian and scholar (Schaff 2014, loc. 22561). He did follow some deviant theological views, which were normally not shared by his students. His attempts to reconcile Christianity with human reason, according to Schaff, was probably at the heart of his theological deviances (Schaff 2014, loc. 22570). Schaff considers Origen to be the best exegetical mind in Christianity until he was surpassed by Chrysostom (Schaff 2014, loc. 22585). However, he had a tendency to seek mystical meanings hidden underneath the text. This pulled him away from sound orthodox teaching.

Clement of Alexandria - Christian Philosopher

7/13/2020

Mondays are for Church History
7/13/20

Schaff, Philip. History of the Christian Church (The Complete Eight Volumes in One). Amazon Kindle Edition, 2014.
Volume 2, Ante-Nicene Christianity A.D. 100-325, “Chapter 13. Ecclesiastical Literature of the Ante-Nicene Age, and Biographical Sketches of the Church Fathers.” sec. 159-204.
§ 186. Clement of Alexandria.

Schaff identifies Clement of Alexandria as Titus Flavius Clemens, probably from Athens (Schaff 2014, loc. 22442), raised as a pagan but an adult convert to Christ. Clement had a zeal for learning and sound philosophy. “He became presbyter in the church of Alexandria, and about A.D. 189 succeeded Pantaenus as president of the catechetical school of that city” (Schaff 2014, loc. 22447). He fled Alexandria under persecution, probably in 202, then was later known to be in Antioch, then Jerusalem.

Schaff considers Clement “the father of the Alexandria Christian philosophy” (Schaff 2014, loc. 22452). His theology is not as clearly systematic as we might like and often brings in elements of paganism and gnosticism. His most important works, written between “190 and 195, represent the three stages in the discipline of the human race by the divine Logos, corresponding to the three degrees of knowledge required by tne ancient mystagogues, and are related to one another very much as apologetics, ethics, and dogmatics, or as faith, love, and mystic vision... “ (Schaff 2014, loc. 22467). They call readers to reject the immorality of paganism, to explain the value of Christian morality, and to encourage the reader to reflect on Christian theology.

Alexandria and Philosophical Theology

7/6/2020

Mondays are for Church History
7/6/20

Schaff, Philip. History of the Christian Church (The Complete Eight Volumes in One). Amazon Kindle Edition, 2014.
Volume 2, Ante-Nicene Christianity A.D. 100-325, “Chapter 13. Ecclesiastical Literature of the Ante-Nicene Age, and Biographical Sketches of the Church Fathers.” sec. 159-204.
§ 185. The Alexandrian School of Theology.

After a fairly extensive bibliography, Schaff briefly notes the importance of Alexandria to commerce and education, which contributed to its becoming an important center of Christianity (Schaff 2014, loc. 22384). The church in Alexandria is generally considered to have been founded by Mark the Evangelist and early featured a catechetical school. Due to the culture of philosophical study in Alexandria the school there took on features of a theological seminary modeled on the philosophical schools of the time (Schaff 2014, loc. 22389). The school remained active until the late 4th century. Schaff notes that Alexandria itself declined to a village and was replaced in importance by Cairo until the 19th century (Schaff 2014, loc. 22398).

Schaff finds that the center of Alexandrian theology is the “Divine Logos, viewed as the sum of all reason and all truth, before and after the incarnation” (Schaff 2014, loc. 22403). Yet the movement did bring Greek culture and philosophy into Christianity. Ideas were imported, says Schaff, as a way of taking what is right and worthy from other religions (Schaff 2014, loc. 22413). As a result, “The Alexandrian theology is intellectual, profound, stirring and full of fruitful germs of thought, but rather unduly idealistic and spiritualistic, and, in exegesis, loses itself in arbitrary allegorical fancies” (Schaff 2014, loc. 22422).

Caius of Rome

6/29/2020

Mondays are for Church History
6/29/20

Schaff, Philip. History of the Christian Church (The Complete Eight Volumes in One). Amazon Kindle Edition, 2014.
Volume 2, Ante-Nicene Christianity A.D. 100-325, “Chapter 13. Ecclesiastical Literature of the Ante-Nicene Age, and Biographical Sketches of the Church Fathers.” sec. 159-204.
§ 184. Caius of Rome.

Caius of Rome, active in the early 3rd century, wrote in Greek, but “was probably a Roman presbyter” (Schaff 2014, loc. 22349). Schaff identifies him as “an opponent of Montanism and Chiliasm.” This is known from quotations in Eusebius. Schaff acknowledges that we know very little about Caius (Schaff 2014, loc. 22359). There has been some confusion of the persons and work of Caius and Hippolytus. Schaff takes them as different but easily confused people, active at the same time.

Anti-Pope, Dissident, or Garden Variety Scholar?

6/22/2020

Mondays are for Church History
6/22/20

Schaff, Philip. History of the Christian Church (The Complete Eight Volumes in One). Amazon Kindle Edition, 2014.
Volume 2, Ante-Nicene Christianity A.D. 100-325, “Chapter 13. Ecclesiastical Literature of the Ante-Nicene Age, and Biographical Sketches of the Church Fathers.” sec. 159-204.
§ 183. Hippolytus.

Schaff’s bibliography notes that numerous works of Hippolytus were found during the 19th century and had begun to be studied in detail by the end of the century (Schaff 2014, loc. 22089). He observes, “This famous person has lived three lives, a real one in the third century as an opponent of the popes of his day, a fictitious one in the middle ages as a canonized saint, and a literary one in the nineteenth century after the discovery of his long lost works against heresies” (Schaff 2014, loc. 22117). Though he has appeared lately as a critic of the Roman church, she had long since considered him a saint and a martyr. Eusebius and Jerome knew of him as a bishop, and both list written works by him, but they know little about him (Schaff 2014, loc. 22122). He may have died as a prisoner in Sardinia, but he may have been released and died elsewhere. Schaff does note his Philosophumena takes a schismatic position and considers him to have a relationship to Ostia, the port city which was often conflated with Rome (Schaff 2014, loc. 22141). Light was shed on him in 1551, when a marble statue was discovered, possibly depicting him in a bishop’s chair, on which are inscribed the names of works that would be ascribed to him (Schaff 2014, loc. 22150).

In the Philosophoumena Hippolytus opposes Roman bishops Zephyrinus and Callistus (202-223) for doctrinal and lifestyle issues. This leads many to take him as a counter pope or at least as a leader o a schismatic movement similar to that of the Montanists (Schaff 2014, loc. 22165).

Hippolytus wrote extensively, though Schaff considers him “not so much an original, productive author, as a learned and skillful compiler” (Schaff 2014, loc. 22169). His theology is very similar to that of Irenaeus, and his zeal, especially against philosophy, is similar to that of Tertullian (Schaff 2014, loc. 22174). Schaff summarizes the Philosophoumena to give the flavor of Hippolytus’ style. Among his other works, mostly lost, Hippolytus wrote commentaries on about a dozen books of the Bible (Schaff 2014, loc. 22218), largely using a strongly allegorical method. Schaff continues with summaries of several of Hippolytus’ allegorical arguments based on the prophets.

While Hippolytus does not call himself a bishop, he does assert the authority of a bishop (Schaff 2014, loc. 22221). He may well have been a bishop of Portus, near Rome, though considered a presbyter of Rome. Schaff reviews numerous scholarly theories about this and the relationship between Portus and Ostia, separated by a small island. Others have argued that he was a presbyter in Rome who didn’t recognize Callistus as the legitimate bishop (Schaff 2014, loc. 22304). This view also has weaknesses, as Rome kept lists of schisms and anti=popes, but never included Hippolytus in these records (Schaff 2014, loc. 22319). Schaff considers all the theories as inconclusive.

A Stable but Unoriginal Scholar

6/15/2020

Mondays are for Church History
6/15/20

Schaff, Philip. History of the Christian Church (The Complete Eight Volumes in One). Amazon Kindle Edition, 2014.
Volume 2, Ante-Nicene Christianity A.D. 100-325, “Chapter 13. Ecclesiastical Literature of the Ante-Nicene Age, and Biographical Sketches of the Church Fathers.” sec. 159-204.
§ 182. Irenaeus.

After an extensive annotated bibliography, Schaff observes that the time and person of Irenaeus is still inadequately researched. “Almost simultaneously with the apology against false religions without arose the polemic literature against the heresies, or various forms of pseudo-Christianity, especially the Gnostics; and upon this was formed the dogmatic theology of the church” (Schaff 2014, loc. 21980). In this movement are Irenaeus and Hippolytus, Greek by education but in the Western tradition of Christianity.

Irenaeus, probably from Smyrna, was instructed by Polycarp, a disciple of the apostle John (Schaff 2014, loc. 21990). Among other places of service, Schaff finds him as a missionary in southern Gaul, possibly also spending some time in London and Vienna. He became bishop of Lyons in 178, after which time he wrote and spoke extensively about defending and expanding Christianity (Schaff 2014, loc. 21995). Schaff is unable to trace his death year, but places it after 190. He was buried in Lyons, at the church of St. John (Schaff 2014, loc. 22000).

Irenaeus championed orthodoxy and catholicity between Easern and Western churches. Schaff describes him as “neither very original nor brilliant, but eminently sound and judicious” (Schaff 2014, loc. 22005). He showed extensive knowledge of the Scriptures, of philosophy, and of the activities of Christians. Schaff does, however, note that Irenaeus was pre-millenarian in his eschatology (Schaff 2014, loc. 22020).

Irenaeus’ most important work is a refutation of Gnosticism, composed between 177 and 190. Schaff considers this the most important text for understanding both Gnosticism and the polemical style of Christians in the period (Schaff 2014, loc. 22034). Schaff does observe that the heretical opinions are “ever-shifting and contradictory” (Schaff 2014, loc. 22044). Irenaeus counters these opinions with unchanging Christian truth. In addition, we know of an Epistle to Florinus, preserved in a fragment, discussing God’s unity and the source of evil. Another work pertains to the centrality of the number eight in Gnosticism (Schaff 2014, loc. 22058). Another work about schisms is known, as well as several other treatises known only by title or from fragmentary quotations in other works.

A peaceful but zealous bishop

6/8/2020

Mondays are for Church History
6/8/20

Schaff, Philip. History of the Christian Church (The Complete Eight Volumes in One). Amazon Kindle Edition, 2014.
Volume 2, Ante-Nicene Christianity A.D. 100-325, “Chapter 13. Ecclesiastical Literature of the Ante-Nicene Age, and Biographical Sketches of the Church Fathers.” sec. 159-204.
§ 181. Dionysius of Corinth.

Schaff introduces Dionysius of Corinth as bishop after A.D. 150, until about A.D. 170. “He was a famous person in his day, distinguished for zeal, moderation, and a catholic and peaceful spirit” (Schaff 2014, loc. 21932). He wrote numerous pastoral letters to different churches, all lost, but summarized by Eusebius, in addition to four fragments known to Schaff (Schaff 2014, loc. 21938). His letters were apparently read in churches.

Hegesippus, a Narrative Historian

6/1/2020

Mondays are for Church History
6/1/20

Schaff, Philip. History of the Christian Church (The Complete Eight Volumes in One). Amazon Kindle Edition, 2014.
Volume 2, Ante-Nicene Christianity A.D. 100-325, “Chapter 13. Ecclesiastical Literature of the Ante-Nicene Age, and Biographical Sketches of the Church Fathers.” sec. 159-204.
§ 180. Hegesippus.

Hegesippus (d. about 180), was a Jewish Christian, whom Schaff identifies as engaging in extensive travel in Syria, Greece, and Italy. His orthodoxy is not consistently affirmed by scholars. Hegesippus’ primary work, lost sometime since the 16th century, is a collected “Memorials,” which may be seen as a sort of church history (Schaff 2014, loc. 21908). It was apparently not nearly as systematic in arrangement or as exhaustive in content as the work of Eusebius. “His chief object was to prove the purity and catholicity of the church against the Gnostic heretics and sects” (Schaff 2014, loc. 21912). He survives in quotes by Eusebius. Schaff describes him as orthodox in his Christian views.