Philosophy and Faith: Contrasting Views of Early Christian Apologists
Attitudes of Apologists Towards Philosophy
Attitudes of apologists in connection with philosophy, and representatives of each of them:
- Some (usually called Greek Fathers) have a welcoming attitude and respect towards philosophy, appreciating its effort to move closer to the truth (some even considered it a precursor of the Christian faith) and assuming part of its themes and vocabulary to explain their doctrine.
- In contrast, the attitude of others (and some Latin Fathers like Tertullian) is of rejection,
Saint Augustine: Christianity in Medieval Philosophy
Item 6: Christianity and Medieval Philosophy: Saint Augustine
1. Socio-Historical Context
Saint Augustine (4th-5th century AD) lived during a politically, socially, and religiously agitated time, amidst the decline of the Roman Empire.
2. Features of Christian Doctrine
Christianity is considered a doctrine, rather than a philosophy. Its features include:
- Linear Sense of History: Unlike the Greeks, who believed history was circular, Christians believe history is guided by God towards salvation.
- Monotheism:
Origins and Expansion of Islam: 7th-13th Centuries
Origins of the Islamic Religion
Religion: Monotheism arising from the Judeo-Christian tradition.
Where: The Arabian Peninsula, populated by nomadic tribes. Agriculture and ranching were practiced, with some trade supporting the economy in times of crisis. The region prospered thanks to trade routes, allowing for the growth of cities like Mecca.
When: In the early 7th century.
Who: Muhammad, born in Mecca in 570. A camel driver who married a wealthy widow and caravan owner. He experienced a great crisis
Read MoreOckham’s Philosophy: Civil vs. Ecclesiastical Power
Text Commentary: Ockham
Historical Context
William of Ockham was a 14th-century English philosopher and Franciscan friar. He was a prominent critic of scholastic philosophy and, contrary to Thomas Aquinas, advocated for a strong separation between reason and faith. Ockham was involved in several controversies, including those concerning papal power and the Church’s evangelical poverty.
Central Theme
The Pope’s power is not absolute, as emperors and kings possess their own legitimate authority.
Key Ideas
The
Read MoreUnderstanding Christian Liturgy: Rhythms, Worship, and Eucharist
Christian Liturgy: Rhythms and Meaning
Liturgical celebrations follow three basic rhythms:
- The Rhythm of the Week: This centers on Sunday, the Lord’s Day, commemorating Jesus’ resurrection through the Eucharist.
- The Annual Rhythm: This encompasses the liturgical year, highlighting key events in Jesus’ life.
- The Rhythm of Life Events: This includes sacraments and Christian celebrations accompanying us from birth through life’s events, including illness, and are present in daily life.
What is Christian
Read MoreMartin Luther, Council of Trent, Baroque Art, and Missions
Martin Luther
Martin Luther (1483-1546) was a German theologian, Augustinian monk, and the father of Lutheranism. As a young man, he pursued university studies in Erfurt and joined the Augustinian Order in 1505. He received his doctorate in Theology in 1511 in Wittenberg. In 1517, he published his 95 Theses, challenging indulgences. Besides translating the New Testament of the Bible from Latin into German, Martin Luther reorganized the Mass, published two catechisms, married Catherine Bora, and had
Read More