Tertullian is an interesting figure in the history of the early Church. He laid the groundwork for several Christian doctrines that are heartily affirmed by the Christians including the primacy of Scriptural authority, perspicuity of Scripture and the principle of Scripture interpreting itself. He wrote several works defending Biblical theology against the various gnostic and heretical movements that were popular in his days. He is the first writer to use the phrase Trinitas (Trinity) to refer to the Godhead. Some of his doctrinal positions were recovered in the Protestant Reformation like the priesthood of all believers and a rejection of icons in worship. Regardless, Tertullian is not officially considered a saint by any of the mainstream apostate denominations like Roman Catholicism or Eastern Orthodoxy despite their tendency to claim the early church fathers for themselves. Nor, are his works widely read among Protestants. Tertullian is often relegated to the status of a secondary or subordinate among the church fathers.
Tag: Church Fathers
Commentaries: 1 Clement – Chapter 1-2
The first chapter primarily deals with Clement informing the Corinthians of the sufferings of the Roman Church. This is followed by his statements introducing the issue at hand, the sedition and deposition of godly elders by self-willed men. Clement praises the Corinthian Church for their piety and faithfulness in the past so that they would recognize what was at stake if they didn't repent.
Commentaries: 1 Clement – Salutation
The Church of God that sojourns in Rome to the Church of God that sojourns in Corinth,
Clement of Rome introduces us to this epistle by referring to the churches in Rome and Corinth as sojourners. This is reminiscent of how Peter the Apostle refers to the Church in 1 Peter 2:11. It is important to understand this term to understand how the Early Church understood their place in the realm of Providence as the special people of God. The word sojourner in the original languages is intended to elicit the position of a foreigner. But its not only restricted to that category, for a foreigner could intend to seek long-term or even permanent residence in a land. A sojourner on the other hand literally means a foreigner who is "passing through" but maintains relationships with the locals of that region. The relationship however, is one based on circumstances rather than fraternal and national affections.
Deo Vicit Mundum 