Discussion blog for ET&N articles and related subjects
Marcion is often considered the greatest heretic of the second century, yet I am including him in the ET&N “Early Fathers” series. Why? First, because fathers aren’t always good. Second, because his contribution to the early development of Christian theology is substantial. And third, he had some of the most important things right!
Discussion is now open on this issue. Click here to access the article.
This issue of ET&N is the fifth in the “Early Fathers” series, which examines the lives of the “Apostolic Fathers” (those writers believed to have direct links to the Apostles) and the “Ante-Nicene Father” (writers after the Apostolic Fathers and before the Nicene Counil in 325). Their writings are rich sources about the beliefs and practices of the church during its first 300 years. Discussion is now open on this issue. Click here to access the article.
Hillel lived from about 80 B.C. and 10 A.D. and represented a more grace-centered wing of the Pharisees in contrast to the legalist portrayed in the New Testament. His grandson, Gamaliel, was a succession in his Torah School in Jerusalem and was Paul’s teacher. Hillel’s teachings served as a preparation for the ministries of both Jesus and Paul. This issue of ET&N looks primarily at the striking parallels between the teachings of Hillel and Paul.
Discussion is now open on this issue. Click here to access the article.
Discussion of Ignatius of Antioch, the second century church father who wrote a series of letters to churches as he was being transported to Rome for execution. His letters are used to justify the position of bishop as distinct from presbyter.
Discussion is now open on this issue. Click here to access the article.