What the Early Church Believed
A series of articles and studies focusing on the Patristic witness on theology, ecclesiology, sacramentology, eschatology, Christian living, etc.
Tertullian: On the Apparel of Women-Church Father Tertullian explores the issue of the proper way a woman should dress.
Enoch and the Origin of Evil-The Early Church held a very complex view of the origin of evil, the Flood, etc., which drew on the book of Enoch.
Apostolic Succession: A Patristic View-How did the Early Church view ministerial authority? How was it passed down? What are its elements? This brief article provides some insight.
Is the Concept of Enlightenment Biblical?-Many religions speak of enlightenment. What did the Early Church believe about the concept? Can a Christian be enlightened?
The Eucharist: An Early Christian Perspective-Early Christians held a view of the Eucharist (Communion) that is markedly different from that of most Protestants and Catholics today. Here I provide some brief points demonstrating this fact
The Apostolic Tradition of Headcovering-The Early Church received the tradition of the women's headcovering, explained why it was to be done, how it was to be practiced, and that it was not limited to time, place, or circumstance.
The Anti-Christ and the Tribe of Dan-Church Father Hippolytus shares insights on the origin and identity of the Anti-Christ.
Queen of Heaven? -Roman Catholics laud Mary, the Mother of Christ, with the title "Queen of Heaven" and believe she was "ever virgin" and had no children. What did the Early Church believe? Does it fit the Catholic view?
Mary's Role in the Gospel -Roman Catholics believe that Mary is the mediatrix of all graces and plays a significant role in our salvation experience. Did the Early Christians agree or is this just pious myth turned heresy?
The Headcovering and Gender Roles: Part One -The Early Christians had a very clear understanding of gender roles and how men and women should comport themselves. This two-part study will help you understand these important facts of faith.
The Headcovering and Gender Roles: Part Two -In part two of our study, we learn why we are told the headcovering is commanded "because of the angels".
Tertullian: Persecution of Christians -This is a letter written by Tertullian of Carthage to Scapula, who was Proconsul of Carthage. It was composed c. 217 A.D. In it, Tertullian explains Christian courage in the face of persecution and attempts to witness to Scapula of the sovereignty of Almighty God.
Did Jesus Preach to the Dead? -Where did Jesus go during the three days he was in the tomb? What is Abraham's Bosom? Is it true that Christ preached to the dead?
Do We Have An Obligation to Obey Unjust Rulers? -How are we to respond when governments require us to violate the gospel? Do we have an obligation to obey?