Church History

Definition of Church History

For purposes of this course, term used in broadest sense:
the scholarly discipline of recording and interpreting the experiences of the worldwide body of people who claim to follow Jesus Christ, since the Pentecostal baptism of the Spirit (Acts 2) against the backdrop of mans kingdom, and in the cradle of divine providence.

Definition of Church History (cont)

The term Church The term History
Historical Process Historiography

Relationship between Church History and World History

Avoiding a False Dichotomy Secular and Sacred History Church History as the Hub

Valuing Church History

Forces Working Against an Appreciation of Church History
Western Intellectual Milieu
Postmodernism, Relativism, Multi-perspectivalism Pragmatism Evolutionism
As Anti-Theology As Social Philosophy

Existentialism Narcissism Cult of Youth

Technological Revolution and Scientific Pragmatism

Encouraging an Appreciation for Church History

History and Divine Revelation
Time medium God creates to reveal his glories to man Progressive Revelation
Gen 1:1 In the beginning unity of Bible Gen 3:15 progressive unfolding of this war and redemption Bible is incomprehensible apart from historical records

History and the Providence of God

Divine sovereignty over all that comes to pass. Nothing left to chance. Weak interest in history reflects a weak theology.

 History and Sanctification

Salvation history is directly linked to the believers sanctification.
Exod 12:24-27a; Josh 4:1-7; Ps 102:18 second generation knows God through the first Rom 6:20-21; 1 Cor 6:9-11; 10:6-12; 11:23-25

History provides negative and positive motivation (Heb 11-12) History provides practical insight for ministry

History and the Love of God (Eph 2:11-22; Titus 2:14) History and Theological Studies
Knowledge of God supported by those who have gone before Theology deteriorates or matures over time

Navigational Destiny of Church History

Navigational Landmarks for Church History

NAVIGATIONAL LANDMARKS HOW TO: KINGDOM OF MAN KINGDOM OF GOD

EPISTEMOLOGY

KNOW TRUTH

REASON

FAITH

COSMOLOGY

RULE THE EVOLUTION EARTH

CREATION

SOTERIOLOGY

SAVE MAN HUMANISM EVANGELISM

The Apostolic Era 33-100 AD

Distinguishing the Apostolic Era

Chronologically
Covers the era of leadership in which the Church was led by individuals personally chosen and trained by Jesus Christ. Eusebius (ca. 260 to ca. 340) claims that the apostle John lived to see the reign of Emperor Trajan (r. 98-117).

Experientially
Church experiences purest expression, most dramatic influence Direct stamp of Jesus personal influence upon leadership Miraculous gifts of Holy Spirit Touchstone of contemporary Church

Authority of the Apostles

Jesus Christ absolute authority over Church (Matt 16:18; Eph 1:1823; Col 1:15-18) Apostles commissioned by Jesus as his authoritative representatives (Matt 16:17-19; Acts 1:1-26; 2 Cor 10-11; Gal 1:11-2:9) Apostles granted miracle working powers to authenticate their authority (Acts 2:43 with Heb 2:3-4; Acts 3:1-16; 5:12; 14:3; Rom 15:18-19; 2 Cor 12:11-12) Apostles are foundation of the Church (Eph 2:19-22) Apostles pass on derivative leadership responsibility to elders over local churches (Acts 1:2, 26; 2:37-43; 4:33ff; 5:12; 6:1ff; 8:1, 14; 9:27; 11:1, 27-30; 14:23; 15:2-6, 22, 33; 16:4 (last ref in Acts to apostles as a group); 20:17, 28-31; Phil 1:1; 1 Tim 3:1ff; 5:17; 1 Thess 5:12; 1 Pet 5:1-5

Roman Witnesses to the Historicity of Jesus of Nazareth

Tacitus (b. 56 or 57 A.D.), the renowned Roman historian and statesman, recounts the burning of Rome in A.D. 64. Tacitus implicates Nero as the primary arsonist and charges the emperor with concocting a ruse to divert public suspicions away from himself: Tacitus writes: Nero fabricated scapegoatsand punished with every refinement the notoriously depraved Christians (as they were popularly called). Their originator, Christ, had been executed in Tiberius reign by the governor of Judea, Pontius Pilatus. But in spite of this temporary setback the deadly superstition had broken out afresh, not only in Judea (where the mischief had started) but even in Rome. All degraded and shameful practices collect and flourish in the capital (Annals, XV, 44).

Jewish Witnesses to the Historicity of Jesus of Nazareth

Although some dispute either the authenticity or the precise meaning of the passage, Josephus records another important early reference to Christ. In the context of a discussion concerning the career of Pontus Pilate, Josephus adds this aside: Now, there was about this time Jesus, a wise man, if it be lawful to call him a man, for he was a doer of wonderful worksa teacher He was [the] Christ; and when Pilate, at the suggestion of the principal men among us, had condemned him to the cross, those that loved him at the first did not forsake him, for he appeared to them alive again the third day, as the divine prophets had foretold these and ten thousand other wonderful things concerning him; and the tribe of Christians, so named from him, are not extinct at this day (Antiquities, 18.3.3).

Birth of Church
Jesus ascension prerequisite to the formation of the Church by means of Holy Spirit baptism (Luke 3:16; John 16:5-15; Acts 2:1-11, 33, 38; 11:1-18; Eph 3:1-12) Church born on the Lords Day, May 24, 33 AD (Hoehner, Chronological Aspects, 143)

Environment of the Apostolic Church

Roman Empire
Emergence of the Empire
Octavius (Augustusthe revered and majestic one) rules alone from 27 BC to 14 AD advances Hellenism Governors = Keep peace and keep taxes flowing

Army
Maintain peace Maintain and advance boundaries Build and maintain roads

Political Theory
Tolerance Traditionalism (test of Nationalism) Piety (utter devotion to the state)

Roman Empire
Philosophical Moorings
Antiquity Philosophical Eclecticism Stoicism Platonism
Eternality of matter Fate (driven by pure rationalism) Artificer (initiates motion on matter) Forms (or Ideals or Models) Social Salvation (citizenry contemplating the Forms) Physical Salvation = deliverance from body n death

Astronomy and Fatalism

Roman Empire
Pagan Dualism Emperor Cult Mystery Religions and Societies
Challenge to Rome = divided loyalties and disrespect of empire Challenge to Christianity = not to be lumped in with superstitio persecution Benefit to Christianity = created space

Palestine
Roman Rule Pompey subjects Palestine as a Roman protectorate in 63 BC and Palestine remains under Roman rule for centuries Herodian Dynasty 40 BC to 4 BC = uneasy peace for 37 yrs Kingdom divided to three sons of Herod Archelaus rules Judea and Samaria Philip rules Gentile regions E of upper Jordan, N of Lake Huleh Herod Antipas rules Galilee, Perea and Transjordan for 42 yrs (Herod the tetrarch, the Fox who beheaded John the Baptist) All three territories consolidate under the rule of Agrippa I, grandson of Herod The Great (Agrippa imprisoned Peter, executed James the brother of Jesus; the Herod of Acts 12) 50 AD, Agrippa II, son of Agrippa I made king and rules until ca AD 93 (the King Agrippa before whom Paul stood trial in Acts 25) Jewish Roman War (66-74 AD)

Significance of Fall of Jerusalem

National identity obliterated (until 1948) Jewish worship decentralized in synagogues Gentile mission unfettered by Jerusalem churchs role and reputation

Jewish Religious Sects

Sadducees Pharisees Essenes Zealots Samaritans

Growth of Apostolic Church

Response to a Global Mission (Matt 28:18-20; Acts 1:8) Gospel Spreads through Jerusalem to Jews (Acts 2-6) Stephens Persecution Scatters Witnesses (Acts 7) Ministry of Peter (Acts 2-6, 10-11, 15)
Ministry after Jerusalem Council unknown and Acts transitions away from him Tradition of death in Rome

Ministry of Philip (Acts 8) Samaritans, Ethiopian Eunuch, up Mediterranean coast to Caesarea Ministry of Paul (Acts 9, 13-28)

Ministry of Paul
Hellenistic Jew from Tarsus, studied under Rabbi Gamaliel in Jerusalem (Acts 22:3; Gal 1:14) Persecuted church (Acts 8:1; 9:1-2; 22:4-5; Phil 3:6) Converted on way to Damascus in Arabia (Acts 9:1-22) Schooled in Arabia (southern Jordan?) for nearly 3 years (Gal 1:17-18) Returns to minister at Damascus escapes murderous plot Journeys to Jerusalem, 15 day stay with Peter, meets James (Acts 9:26-28; Gal 1:15-20), escapes murderous plot Approx 10 years in Tarsus silent years

Ministry of Paul (cont)

Joins Barnabas as teacher in Antioch Missionary Journeys
First = 46-47 AD (Acts 13:4-14:28) Jerusalem Council = 48 AD (Acts 15) Second = 48-51 AD (Acts 15:36-18:22) 1-2 Thess Third = 54-58 AD (Acts 18:23-21:26) 1-2 Cor; Gal; Rom Journey of Imprisonment = 58-67 AD (Acts 21:1728:31) Col; Eph; Phlm; Phil; 1-2 Tim, Titus

Greatest theologian and greatest missionary of the apostolic church

Early Christian Communities

Key Distinguishing Features of the Apostolic Church

The Experience of Miraculous Works Uniting of Jew and Gentile in the Saving Purposes of God One Universal Church in Local Settings Simplistic, Informally Structured Worship
Location of Worship (Jas 2:2; 70 AD) Elements of Worship
Lords Supper and Agape Meal Reading of Scriptures (1 Tim 3:15; 4:13) The Exhortation (1 Tim 4:13) The Teaching (1 Tim 4:13) Singing (Eph 5:19-20; Col 3:16) The Prayers (Acts 2:42; 1 Tim 2:1-2, 8; 3:14-15)

Key Distinguishing Features of the Apostolic Church (cont)

Family Model of Church Government
Overseers/Elders (1 Cor 4:14-15; 2 Cor 11:2, 28; Phil 1:1; 1 Thess 2:7-12; 1 Tim 3:1-7; Titus 1:5-9) Deacons (Phil 1:1; 1 Tim 3:8-12) Family Love

Evangelistic Zeal Persecution

Waves of imperial persecution Nero (r. 54-68), Domitian (r. 81-96) Tradition claims 10 of original 12 disciples were martyred (2 Tim 3:12)

The Ante-Nicene Era 100-325 AD

Distinguishing the Ante-Nicean Era

Chronology of the Nicean Divide
Edict of Milan (313 AD) The Council of Nicea (325 AD)

Characteristics of the Ante-Nicean Church

Widespread, intermittent persecution Increasing influence upon the empire Increasingly formal, intellectual criticism from pagans met with increasingly academic responses from Christians Defense of the faith against false doctrine Practical pastoral ministry and application of Scripture

Apostolic Fathers (100-150 AD)

Clement of Rome (ca. 30-100) Ignatius of Antioch (ca. 35-107) Polycarp of Smyrna (ca. 69-155) Hermas of Rome Papias (ca. 60-130) Anonymous Literary Works
Epistle of Barnabas Second Epistle of Clement Didache Epistle to Diognetus

Characteristics of Apostolic Fathers

Men of simple and sincere faith high morality Informal, practical letters and sermons Monotheistic, belief in creation Promoted humanity and deity of Christ Promoted the authority of Scripture while struggling with poor hermeneutics (i.e. allegorical interpretation) Preferred baptism by immersion, some baptismal regeneration Held to immanency of Christs return Papias and Barnabas were premillennial; no one clearly pre-trib; no one post-trib NT canon not formally fixed nor universally appreciated Loss of a homogeneous faith

Apologetical and Polemical Fathers 125-250 AD

Apologetical Fathers
Generally = new converts from paganism Tended to address pagans and rulers focusing more on a reasoned response to pagan objections to Christianity in the hope of gaining tolerance

Polemical Fathers
Generally = more extensive background in Christianity Addressed more to heretics with a focus on condemning heretical Christian teachings by deviant groups

More concerned with persecution

Less and less concerned with persecution as time passed; more concerned with heresy Increasing appeal made to authority of NT

Emphasized OT

In Defense of the Faith Ante-Nicean Church Fathers

Key Apologetical and Polemical Fathers

Aristides Justin Martyr (ca. 100-165) Irenaeus (ca. 130-200) Tertullian (ca. 155-221) Clement of Alexandria (ca. 150-215) Origen (185-254) Cyprian (200-258)

Leading Intellectual Pagan Critics of Christianity

Fronto Lucian of Samosata (ca 115-ca 200) Galen (b. ca 129 AD) Celsus (2nd C) Plotinus (ca 205-ca 270) Porphyry (ca 232-303)

Porphyrys Critique of Christianity

Criticized Origen for integration of Greek philosophy and Christian doctrine and using an allegorical hermeneutic to avoid problems in OT interpretation Attacked authenticity of Daniels prophecy, claiming the book was written in the 2nd C Posited a doctrinal impasse between Peter and Paul Labored to prove discrepancies and errors in the Bible (esp gospels) Claimed Jesus was a good man (vis--vis Celsus) who was accepted by the gods but who was falsely deified by his followers Questioned how Christ could be the only way of salvation when an innumerable multitude of souls had lived and died before Christ

Primary Intellectual Pagan Objections to Christianity

Anti-intellectualism and Irrational Faith in Revelation Impiety and Disloyalty to State Failure to Meet Standards of Antiquity and Nationalism Immorality (cannibalism, sexual perversions)

Roman Imperial Persecutions

Nero (r. 54-68) Domitian (r. 81-96) Trajan (r. 98-117) Marcus Aurelius (r. 161-180) Decius Trajan (r. 249-251) Valerian (r. 253-260) Diocletian (r. 284-305)

Battle Against Heretical and Reforming Christian Sects

Ebionism Gnosticism
Marcionism (Marcion died ca 160) Valentinianism (Valentinus, 2ndC) Manichaeanism (Manes or Manichaeus, early 3rdC) Monarchianism
Dynamic Monarchianism (Adoptionism) Modalistic Monarchianism (Sabellianism or Patripassionism)

Extreme Gnostic Sects

Reforming Sects

Essential Features of Gnosticism

Christian Identity Neo-Platonic (secret gnosis or revelation) Reason over Revelation Dualistic (affects ethics, anthropology, Christology) Existential Initiatory Rites and Symbol-Laden Ceremonies

Prominent Proponents of Gnosticism

Marcionism Valentinianism Manichaeanism Monarchiansim
Dynamic Monarchianism (Adoptionism) Modalistic Monarchianism (Patripassionism)

Extreme Gnostic Sects

Reforming Groups
Montanism Novatianism Donatism

Travails of the Roman Empire

Life of a Parasite Invasions Captive to Army Famine and Plague

Attempts at Restoration
Diocletian (285-305)
Empire divided into four sections ruled by two Augusti and two Caesars (generals) Christianity attacked (10-20% of population)

Constantine (311-337)
Victory over Maxentius at Milvian Bridge Hoc Signo Vinces Rules eastern empire from Constantinople A Christian? A Pragmatist and Opportunist

Edict of Milan (313)

Perceiving long ago that religious liberty ought not to be denied, but that it ought to be granted to the judgment and desire of each individual to perform his religious duties according to his own choice, we had given orders that every man, Christians as well as others, should preserve the faith of his own sect and religion We resolved to grant both to the Christians and to all men freedom to follow the religion which they choose, that whatever heavenly divinity exists may be propitious to us and to all that live under our government. We have, therefore, determined, with sound and upright purpose that liberty is to be denied to no one to choose and follow the religious observances of the Christians, but that to each one freedom is to be given to devote his mind to that religion which he may think adapted to himself, in order that the deity may exhibit to us in all things his accustomed care and favor *Freedom+ shall be restored to the said Christians, without demanding money or any other equivalent, with no delay or hesitation For by this means the divine favor toward us which we have already experienced in many matters will continue sure through all time (in Eusebius, CH, X.V.).

Council of Nicea (325)

Constantines Project Constantines Concern
Arian ControversyIs Jesus of the same essence or substance as the Fatherthreatens to embroil the church in irremediable controversy

Constantines Call of the First Ecumenical Council

July 4, 325 250 bishops and perhaps 50 deacons, mostly of eastern half of Empire Division in the church is worse than war Significance

Position Arian

Chief Proponent Arius

Distinguishing Belief Jesus of a different (heteros) substance (ousios) than Father Jesus of a similar substance (homoiousios) as the Father Jesus of same substance (homoousios) as the Father

SemiArian Orthodox

Eusebius of Caesarea Athanasius

Nicean Creed
We believe in one God the Father all-sovereign, maker of all things visible and invisible; and in one Lord Jesus Christ, the son of God, begotten of the Father, onlybegotten, that is, of the substance of the Father, God of God, light of light, true God of true God, begotten not made, of one substance with the Father, through whom all things were made And those that say there was when he was not, and , before he was begotten he was not, and that, he came into being from what-is-not, or those that allege, that the Son of God is of another substance or essence or created, or changeable or alterable, these the catholic and apostolic church anathematizes.

Characteristics of the Ante-Nicean Era

An Era of Intense Battle and Apologetic Formation Rationalism Taints Apologetics Ecclesiology Degenerates Rise of Monasticism Canonization Crystallizes
Recognition versus determination Tests: Apostolic authority and doctrinal authenticity

Creeds Formalize Belief Numerical Growth and Expanding Influence The State Influences the Church

Characteristics of the Ante-Nicean Era (cont)

The State Influences the Church
Christianitys influence upon the Roman Empire is extensive and at every level, however Political Power in the Church Ceremonialism and Ritualism in Worship Popularity Spiritual Decay

The Post-Nicene Era 325-590 AD

Roman Empire Embraces Christianity

Arianism and Orthodoxy Constantine
New Capital Mediator Evangelist Sacral State

Constantines Sons Julian The Apostate (360-363) Theodosius I, The Great (378-395)

Theodosius I, The Great (378-395)

First genuinely orthodox emperor, established Christianity as state religion Presses Roman Senate to affirm Christ Outlaws: attendance at pagan temples, pagan sacrifices, idol worship, etc Encourages destruction of pagan temples gives property to churches Large numbers of pagans convert to Christianity

Division of the Roman Empire

Overview of Developments in Post-Nicean Era

Make Up of Church Radically Altered
By end of Theodosius reign, Christianity and the Roman state are inseparable
Constantines reign 10-20% of population Christian One century later as much as 90% identify as Christian

Church inundated with rapid flood of mass converts

Churches unable, unprepared, unwilling to exercise discipline Three Responses to Spiritual Degeneration
Separation Universalism Secularization

Overview of Developments (cont)

Canonization Solidifies Formal Christian Education Develops
Catechetical classes Cathedral Schools (or Episcopal Schools)

Ritualism Increases festivals, holy days and places, fetishism, relics, vestments Holy Living Declines Christian Architecture and Art Develop artisans supported by state, icons developed in Eastern church, church buildings Clerical Celibacy in West Creeds and Councils Formalize Belief

Church Evangelizes Barbarians

Gregory the Illuminator Armenia Frumentius (ca. 300-380) Ethiopia (Coptic Christianity) British Isles Ulfilas (ca. 335- ca. 400) Goths and Visigoths Martin of Tours (ca. 335 ca. 400) to south Gaul Gregory of Tours Franks of Gaul Patrick (ca. 389-461) Ireland

When Giants Walked the Land

Martin of Tours
Gregory of Nazianzus

Milan
Ambrose Rome
Basil of Caesarea

John Chrysostom

Gregory of Nyssa

Jerome Hippo
Augustine
Alexandria Athanasius

Post-Nicene Greek Fathers

Eusebius (ca. 260-ca. 339) Athanasius (296-373) Cappadocian Fathers
Successors of Athanasius Basil of Caesarea (Basil the Great; 330-379) Gregory of Nyssa (ca. 335-395) Gregory of Nazianzus (ca. 329-390)

John of Antioch (Chrysostom) (347-407)

Athanasius
Martin Luther of the 4th C Influence
Champion of the deity and humanity of Christ and deity of Holy Spirit against Arianism Apologetics Life of St Anthony

Pastoral Ministry
Service over Politics Theological Orientation Self-Discipline and Austerity Perseverance and Courage

John Chrysostom

Chrysostom 347-407 AD

John of Antioch (Chrysostom)

Upbringing and Education Antioch Constantinople Quintessential Preacher Defender of Nicene Orthodoxy Prophet of Morality in Word and Deed Martyrdom

When Giants Walked the Land

Martin of Tours
Gregory of Nazianzus

Milan
Ambrose Rome
Basil of Caesarea

John Chrysostom Gregory of Nyssa

Jerome Hippo
Augustine
Alexandria Athanasius

Post-Nicene Latin Fathers

Ambrose (ca. 339-397) Jerome (347-420) Augustine (354-430)

Ambrose
Highly educated and gifted Entrance into Ministry Strong Defender of Nicene Orthodoxy Gifted Leader and Administrator of Church Affairs Church over State Hymnody Ministry to Augustine

Jerome

Jerome
Education in Italy Hermit in Syria Establishes Monastery in Bethlehem Prolific Linguist and Author
Masters Greek and Hebrew Biographer Exegetical Commentator Influences every theological battle of his day including Arianism

Translates Latin Vulgate Theological Weaknesses

Augustine

Augustine
Highly Influential in Church and Western History Upbringing Devotee to Manichaeism Sojourn in Milan and Conversion to Christianity Bishop of Hippo Regius (North Africa) Labored Against Manichees, Donatists, Pagans, Pelagius Prolific Author on Christian Doctrine Theological Legacy

Key Developments in Later Post-Nicene Era

Council of Ephesus (431) Council of Chalcedon (451)
Against Arius, Jesus was fully divine: truly God perfect in Godhead begotten of the Father before the ages Against Apollinarius, Jesus was fully human: truly man perfect in manhood and born of the Virgin Mary Against Nestorius, Jesus was one person, not two. The deity and humanity are: not parted or divided into two persons but Christ is one person and one being Against Eutyches, Jesus humanity was not blurred with his deity, but both natures of Christ remained distinct

Council of Chalcedon
Concerning Jesus deity and humanity: The difference of the natures is in no wise taken away by reason of the union, but rather the properties of each are preserved *Christ is+ made known in two natures without confusion, without change, without division, without separation.

Key Developments in Later Post-Nicene Era

Council of Ephesus (431) Council of Chalcedon (451) Fall of Roman Empire (476)
Irremediable Societal Decay Convulsive Internal Political Upheaval Military Meltdown

The Dark Medieval Era 500-1000 AD

Barbarian Invasions

Overview of Dark Medieval Era (500-1,000 AD)

Fall of Roman Empire Precipitates Widespread Political and Cultural Upheaval and Instability Quest for Survival
East= policy of isolated self-preservation prevails West= policy of assimilation evolves

Church in the Byzantine Empire

Church and Emperors Byzantine Empire grows increasingly inept Empire maintains cultural significance Homogenous blending of Christianity, Roman government, and Greco-Oriental culture

Hagia Sophia

Hagia Sophia (interior)

Key Ecclesiastical Controversies

Nestorian Church Monophysite Controversy Iconoclastic Controversy

The Life of Muhammad (570-632) and Origins of Islam

610- First Revelation 622- Elders drive Muhammad away from Mecca 630- leads 65 raids on caravans headed to Mecca Multiple wives and concubines 632- by the time of his death the Arabian tribes had embraced Islam as their unifying causewith Arabic language and militaristic zeal, Arab world coalesces rapidly into formidable force

Muhammads Teaching
Islam= Arabic for submission Muhammad believed himself to be the sixth, and greatest, in a line of major prophets sent by Allah Sought to incorporate Jews, Jews oppose him, and he turns against them Focused on Abraham as neither Jew nor Christian Rejected the Christian Trinity Jesus= true prophet of Allah, not divine

Basic Features of the Islamic Religion

Allah- oneness emphasized, beneficent, not particularly loving The Five Pillars
There is no god but Allah, and Muhammad is his prophet. Five set times of prayer per day Fasting during the daylight hours of Ramadan (9th month of lunar calendar) Almsgiving At least one pilgrimage to Mecca in a lifetime if possible

The Three Sacred Books

The Quran (Recitation) The Hadith The Ijma

Jihad
The Quran promotes a two-fold division of the earth Jihad, meaning holy struggle, is an official call to the faithful to engage in a holy war in behalf of Allah Pre-modern era- jihad oriented toward conquest; today- promotion of defensive jihad Terrorism today= radical sects who view Qurans two-fold division of the earth in a literalist manner, seeing all non-Muslim nations as the enemies of Allah

Sacral State
Muhammads system melded religion and state The caliphs are seen as guardians of Islam Islam today comprised of various sects which divide over interpretation of the holy books

Conquests of Islam
Islam benefits from war between Persian and Byzantine Empires Islam holds sway over Mesopotamia, Palestine, Syria and much of N. Africa in two decades 711 Moors cross strait of Gibraltar and conquer Visigothic Spain Islam advance checked at Constantinople

The Islamic Empire

Islamic Culture
Cultural Homogeneity Cultural Assimilation

Byzantine Empires Missionary Expansion to the North

Byzantine Empires Lasting Contribution

A Wall for Western Christendom against Islam A Guardian of Greco-Roman Culture and Hellenistic Learning for the West

Church in the Western Empire

Ordeal of Barbarian Invasions
A Tidal Wave of Barbarian Invasions Constant Political and Social Upheaval

Cultural Overview
Less homogenous and populous than East, more land Classical culture and Christianity purposefully melded in the East with Christianity, in the West forcibly melded with Germanic barbarism Leads to a distinctively European culture Western Church emerges as the vanguard and guardian of intellectual life and cultural development in West

Evangelism of Barbarians

Evangelism of Barbarians

Evolution of Papacy
Political Milieu Contributes to Papacy Ecclesiastical Tradition Promotes Papacy
Evolution of belief in the supremacy of Peter and the See at Rome Matt 16:18 Refutation = Eph 2:19-22; role of James in Acts 15; 2 Cor 11:5; Gal 2:9-14) Evolution of belief in papacy Rom 15:20; Gal 2:8-11; 1 Pet 1:1

Gregory I (The Great) Formalizes Papacy

Acute crisis of barbarian invasions cuts off from East Assumed emperor-like authority and rules central Italy with skill and devotion John the Faster, bishop of Constantinople, claims highest authority in church as universal bishop- Gregory is acknowledged as the supreme authority Promotes evangelism and pastoral carePastoral Care

Gregory I (The Great) Formalizes Papacy (cont)

Theology Highly influential, prototypical pope Father of new era of Medieval Church history

Growth of Monasticism
Response to tumultuous times St. Benedict of Nursia monastic order Monks becomes guardians of Latin learning, evangelists, managers of large tracts of land, advisors to kings, military recruiters synthesizers of classical-Christian-Germanic influences

Influence of Islam in West

To East- Islam checked in East To South- Muslims cross Straits of Gibraltar in 711 and crush weak Visigothic kingdom in southern Spain Islam spreads toward South Asia

Europe (600 A.D.)

Rise of Englands Influence in Western Church

Mission of St. Augustine to Kent (d. 604-609) Merger of Irish-Celtic and Benedictine-Roman Christianity St. Bede, the Venerable (ca. 673-735)

Bede

Rise of Englands Influence in Western Church

Mission of St. Augustine to Kent (d. 604-609) Merger of Irish-Celtic and Benedictine-Roman Christianity St. Bede, the Venerable (ca. 673-735) Northumbria in decline by time of Bedes death By 700s epicenter of Christian culture shifts from England to Frankish empire

Carolingians and the Papacy of Rome

Charles Martel (Hammer) (ca. 690-741) Pepin III (714-768) Charlemagne or Charles the Great (768-814)

Charlemagne (768-814)

Charlemagne (Charles the Great)

His rule epitomized the synthesis of classical culture, orthodox Christianity, and Germanic barbarism Roman Empire marketplaces and cities; Western Roman Empire agrarian culture, monasteries, and cathedral churches Conquering Warrior 800 Pope Leo III (795-816) crowns Charlemagne Emperor of the Romans Carolingian Renaissance Louis the Pious

The Carolingian Empire

New Invasions
England relies on kings France relies on Feudalism Germany relies on dukes Italy relies on walled city-states

Analysis of Church and Society at Dawn of High Medieval Era

The Village The Manor Little demarcation between Church and State Churchs Relationship to People Evangelism of barbarian tribes approximates a cultural counter-invasion

The High Medieval Era 1000-1300 AD

The High Medieval Era

Designation High Middle Ages West Emerges as Primary Theater of Christendom
Asian Christianity Byzantine Church Western Church

Development of Towns and Commerce

Towns Proliferate A New Urban Class Emerges International Commerce Grows Technology Advances Cultural and Religious Resurgence

Developments in Monasticism
Franciscan Friars
Founder: Francis of Assisi (1182-1226) Franciscan friars evangelize, preach, sing, and beg throughout Western Europe- famed as missionaries- characterized by emotionalism, asceticism, and disciplined piety

Developments in Monasticism (cont)

Dominican Friars
Founder: Dominic de Guzman (1170-1221) The Dominican Ministry- Where Francis was suspicious of learning and denied his friars access to Scripture, Dominicans noted for high level of scholarship- recruits given quality education then dispersed to preach- Universities of Paris and Oxford Thomas Aquinas, Albertus Magnus

Schism of Eastern & Western Christendom

The Date of 1054 A Later, More Nebulous Date The Division
Self-understanding of Two Churches Distinct Attempts to Reconcile

Crusades
Initial Crisis Primary Motivation The First Crusade
Knight Orders Different Agendas

The Second Crusade The Third Crusade The Fourth Crusade Other Crusades

Crusaders Fortress

The Crusader States

Art and Architecture

Architectural Styles
Romanesque (earlier period) Gothic period starts mid-12th C steadily replacing Romanesque

Artwork

Romanesque Architecture

Gothic Architecture

Intellectual Life
Characteristics of the Age Cathedral Schools and Universities

Scholasticism
Scholastic Method Goal Impetus Aristotle Scholastics

Leading Scholastics
Anselm of Canterbury (1033-1109) Peter Abelard (1079-1142) Peter Lombard (1100-1169) John of Salisbury (1115-1180) Albertus Magnus (the Great) (1193-1280) Thomas Aquinas (ca. 1224-1274)
Summa Contra Gentiles Summa Theologica

Thomas Aquinas (ca. 1224-1274)

Scholasticisms Shortcomings
Irreconcilable differences between Augustinian theology and Aristotelian philosophy Endless, rationalistic, dogmatic hair-splitting sap energies from biblical exegesis and scientific progress Creates division between those calling for removal of Augustine and church dogma and others calling for removal of Aristotle

The Late Medieval Era (1300-1500)

Overview of Late Medieval Era

Societal Upheaval Decline of the Churchs Power Passion for Knowledge Western Papal Schism (1378) Rise of Nationalism
Continental Wars National Pride

The Late Medieval Papacy

Boniface VIII (1294-1303) Benedict XI (1303-4)

Beginning of the Avignon Papacy

Clement V (1305-14) John XXII (1316-34) Benedict XII (1334-42) Clement VI (1342-52) Innocent VI (1352-62) Urban V (1362-70) Gregory XI (1370-78)

The Papal Schism

Roman Popes Urban VI (1378-89) Boniface IX (1389-1404) Innocent VII (1404-6) Gregory XII (1406-15) Pisan Popes Alexander V (1409-10) John XXIII (1410-15) Avignon Popes Clement VII (1378-94)

Benedict XIII (1394-1423)

COUNCIL OF CONSTANCE REUNITES PAPACY (1415-1417) The Renaissance Papacy

Martin V (1417-31) through Leo X (1513-21)

The Renaissance
Meaning of term = French for re-birth or born again Humanism from Latin humanitas emphasizes influence of the humanities on culture (literature, philosophy, fine arts) Impetus Classical learning languishing in chains of Roman dogma interest in humanities and sciences grows in towns restless enthusiasm to break loose from dogma and embrace new freedom to pursue humanistic learning

Renaissance Spirit
Spirit of the age: As knowledge grew, fear decreased; men thought less of worshiping the unknown, and more of overcoming it. Every vital spirit was lifted up with a new confidence; barriers were broken down; there was no bound now to what man might do (Durant, Philosophy, 105)

Key Contributors to Renaissance

Leaders remain loyal to RCC Dante Alighieri (1265-1321) Tetrarch (1304-74) Manuel Chrysoloras of Constantinople

Spread of Renaissance Humanism

In Italy In the Roman Church In France In England In Germany In Holland

Renaissance Humanists and Evangelicals

Join in opposition to Scholasticism and deficiencies of papacy heading for Y in the road Humanists revive study of biblical languages, emphasize and develop literal interpretation Nicholas of Lyra (1265-1349) Renaissance Humanists: promote textual criticism love for scientific investigation individualism

Spread of the Written Word

Invention of printing press in 1446 by Johann Gutenberg of Mainz, Germany (1400-1468) Crusades open trade routes allowing paper to arrive from Egypt Luther: Printing is Gods latest and best work to spread the true religion throughout the world

Printing Press

Reforming Evangelicals
Peter de Bruys (d. ca. 1140) Petrobusians Peter Waldo Waldenses John Wyclif (d. 1384) Lollards John Huss (1369-1415)

John Wyclif (d. 1384)

Wyclif Sends Out Preachers

Reforming Evangelicals
Petrobusians- Peter de Bruys (d. ca. 1140) Waldenses- Peter Waldo John Wyclif (d. 1384) - Lollards John Huss (1369-1415)

John Hus (1369-1415)

Late Medieval Mysticism

Mystic Movement Dominican John Eckhard (1260-1327) John Ruysbroeck (1293-1381) Gerard Groote (1340-84) Thomas a Kempis (1380-1471) John of Wessel Girolamo Savonarola

Girolamo Savonarola (1452-1498)

State of Roman Catholicism at Close of Medieval Era

Persecuting Church
Compared with the persecution of heresy *by the RCC+ . . . the persecution of Christians by [pagan] Romans . . . was a mild and humane procedure (Will Durant)

Corrupt Leadership Materialistic Greed Sensuality Lack of Spiritual Leadership Degenerating Theology

Compared with the persecution of heresy *by the RCC] . . . the persecution of Christians by [pagan] Romans . . . was a mild and humane procedure. - Will Durant

Veneration of Mary
Mother of God official title bestowed 431 at Council of Ephesus Mary increasingly viewed as mediator interceding with the Son for mercy on sinners Queen of Heaven 13thC designation Immaculate Conception Mary born free of original sin (declared by Pope Pius IX, 1854)

Veneration of Mary
Perpetual Virgin (Jesus brothers = cousins) Assumption taken bodily into heaven (Pope Pius XII in 1950) Pope John Paul II referred to Mary as CoRedemptrix and as Co-Operator in the Redemption (not yet official)

Sacramental System of Salvation

Sacrament Latin sacramentum meaning sign or symbol sign of grace conveyed to sinner Concept- full of grace (Treasury of Merits) Mortal Sins Venial sins

Seven Sacraments
Baptism Confirmation Eucharist Penance (punishment) Holy Matrimony Holy Orders Extreme Unction

Purgatory
Concept Purgatory a temporal place or state between heaven and hell where punishment is suffered by those who die in the grace of God, but who lack sufficient grace to enter his presence Indulgences length of punishment can be reduced by receiving indulgences from the pope Defense 2 Maccabees 12:39-45; Matt 12:3lff; 1 Cor 3: 11-15 Abuses Widespread significant source of income for Church Denial of Priesthood of Believer

Corrupt Ecclesiastical Politics

Nepotism Simony Pluralism Absenteeism Granting special exemptions from Church Law Indulgences

Indulgences
From sinners perspective = the receipt (usually purchase) from the Church of absolution (in varying degrees) from the temporal suffering necessitated by sin Sin absolved by priest must receive temporal penalty and that penalty can be diminished by application of grace from the Treasury of Merits Works may include: visit to holy place, repetition of assigned prayers, performance of good works, a monetary gift to the Church in some way a good deed is substituted for a sinful deed or attitude At Dawn of Reformation Pope Leo X (1513-1521) revived the Jubilee indulgence purporting to use all revenues to fight Turks in East and help sinners in West his actual program was to finish construction on Basilica of St Peter in Rome

Vatican City

Letter of Indulgence

The Reformation Era 1517-1600

Europe, 1500

The Renaissance Spirit of the Times

Ulrich von Hutten: the studies flourish, the spirits are awake; it is a luxury to live (Schaff:7:2) Luther: If you read all the annals of the past, you will find no century like this since the birth of Christ. Such building and planting, such good living and dressing, such enterprise in commerce, such a stir in all the arts, has not been since Christ came into the world. And how numerous are the sharp and intelligent people who leave nothing hidden and unturned: even a boy of twenty years knows more nowadays than was known formerly by twenty doctors of divinity (Schaff: 7:2)

Characteristics of the German Spirit

A Passion for Thought and Inward Speculation
Providence gave to France the dominion of the land, to England the dominion of the sea, and to Germany the dominion of the air (i.e., realm of ideas) (Schaff: 7:97)

A Passion for Independence and Personal Freedom

Martin Luther (1483-1546)

Martin Luther
Early Life Monastic Life at Erfurt University of Wittenberg 1510 Visit to Rome Conversion

95 Theses
Context Germany in upheaval over Pope Leos scheme with Tetzel to tax Germans by sale of indulgences Oct 31, 1517, posts debate notice for All Saints Day on door of Castle Church at Wittenberg Emphasis = proper use of Indulgences Pope Leo X + Archbishop Albrecht of Mainz + Frederick the Wise, Elector of Saxony + HRE Maximilian + Charles, king of Spain and Francis, king of France + Cajetan + Charles von Miltitz

Castle Church, Wittenburg

Door of Castle Church

Door of Castle Church, Wittenburg

Pope Leo X

St. Peters Basilica

Leipzig Debate (June 27-July 16, 1519)

Germany upheaval over Luthers views John Eck (1486-1543) Papal Bull of Condemnation issued against Luther on June 15, 1520 Luther answers by writing a number of short works in defense of evangelical theology and against papal authority Dec 10, 1520, Luther burns papal bull

Diet of Worms (April 17-May 25, 1521)

Charles V (new HRE) summons Luther Charles asks if books are Luthers and if he recants Advisors coach Luther to ask for time Luther visited that night by friends and nobles who support him on the eve of certain death

Luthers Confession at Worms, April 18

Unless I am convinced by Scripture and plain reason, I do not accept the authority of popes and councils for they have contradicted each other. My conscience is captive to the Word of God. I cannot and I will not recant anything for to go against conscience is neither right nor safe. Here I stand, I cannot do otherwise. God help me, Amen.

Diet of Worms (April 17-May 25, 1521)

In defiance of the Popes wishes, Diet continues to confront Luther over several days, but to no avail On April 26, Luther slips away through a gate in the city wall (Luther gate) On return trip to Wittenberg, stops to visit friends and family along way

Wartburg
May 4 traveling through heart of Mohra forest, Luther kidnapped by 5 masked men Taken to Wartburg castle where he lives in disguise as Knight George Luther appeals to German people through his writings from the Wartburg
On Monastic Vows September Testament

Katherine von Bora

Reads Luther escape convent Luther marries her to please his father, spite his enemies, and give expression to his faith Couple models healthy marriage to Germany Table Talk

Table Talk

Luthers Musical Contributions

Capable musician Popularized Augustines philosophical arguments Laity begin to sing German songs in church, ending monopoly of professional church singers performing in Latin

Luthers Music

Travails with the Lutheran People

More radical Reformers seek to control Wittenberg German Peasants and Muntzer Rebellion (1525)

Philip Melanchthon (1497-1560)

Diet of Speyer (1526 and 1529)

HRE Charles V seeks to establish RC as state religion (cuis region, eius religio religion of prince is religion of state) condemns Luther Lutheran princes form Schmalkaldic League in opposition to Charles and as a defensive alliance in case of Roman reprisal Charles distracted by Turks clash with Schmalkaldic princes delayed for 15 years during which time Lutheran princes solidify hold

Luthers Legacy
Last days overshadowed by Lutheran disunity Luther grows increasingly bitter and harsh Capable intellect, but not a renowned scholar, unparalleled communicator Courageous and Capable Leader Failed to divest himself of enough of Roman heresy

Luthers Grave

Martin Luther (sometime after abandoning asceticism for Katies cooking)

Ulrich Zwingli (1484-1531)

Ulrich (or Huldrich) Zwingli (1484-1531)

Life Setting Theological Emphasis Through series of disputations, Zurich city council permits Zwingli to orient church along evangelical lines Opposed Anabaptists in Third Disputation Colloquy of Marburg, 1529 Successors are: Heinrich Bullinger, Martin Bucer, and Johannes Oecolampadius

Jean Calvin (1509-1564)

Institutes of the Christian Religion

Occasion Structure based on Apostles Creed:
Section 1 = Knowledge of God Section 2 = Person and Work of Christ Section 3 = Holy Spirit Section 4 = the Church

Significance

Father of Reformed Theology

Theology Proper supreme majesty and absolute sovereignty of God is central pillar of theologyGods glory pervades all Bibliology Bible is sole authority- Holy Spirits internal persuasion of the believer that the Bible is Gods word is essential Anthropology, Hamartiology, Soteriology reasserts strong Augustinian position on human depravity, glory of God Full orbed biblical morality Church and State state must submit to Churchpersecuted Anabaptists

Life-Contributions
Translates Bible into French Many letters of counsel and encouragement Leader and Pastor at Geneva Leader of Reformed Protestantism in Europe and beyond Second Helvetic Confession of 1556 University of Geneva (1559) (Send me wood and I will send you back arrows)

Leader and Pastor at Geneva

William Farel Calvin lives out his ministry in Geneva as preacher at St. Peters church Hiatus in Strasbourg (1538-1541) Return to Geneva Articles Concerning the Government of the Church (1537) Faithful, expository preacher Leader of Reformed Protestantism in Europe and beyond

Guillaume Farel

St. Peters Cathedral, Geneva

TOPIC

LUTHER

CALVIN

Lords Supper Baptism

Consubstantiation actual bodily presence of Christ in the elements

Spiritual Presence elements serve as a sign of the presence of Christ Infant baptism practiced immersion preferred but seldom practiced
Worship forms permitted only if they were found in the Bible. Congregational singing had to be Psalms. Preaching was central. State must submit to the Church which has extensive powers over everyone. Preacher who became a popular professor

Infant baptism practiced immersion preferred but seldom practiced Worship Retained RC forms unless the Bible strictly forbid them. Promoted congregational hymn singing. Preaching was central. Church & State has extensive powers over State Church. Head of state is head of Church. Occupation Professor who was a popular preacher Theology Augustinian, stressing justification of sinners by faith alone in Christ alone. Predestination to salvation and damnation. Bible translated for the sake of the common man into German

Bible Translator

Augustinian, emphasizing the sovereignty and glory of God. Predestination to salvation and damnation. Bible translated for the sake of the common man into French

Reformation Spreads
France Huguenots Synod of Paris (May 1559) adopts Gallic Confession persecution Netherlands 1561 Belgic Confession adopted as official position of Protestant Church in Netherlands (Dutch Reformed Church) Scandinavia
Denmark Norway Sweden

William Tyndale

Martyrdom of Tyndale

King Henry VIII

King Henry VIII

Ardent supporter of Rome Conflict with Rome Reformation Parliament Book of Common Prayer establishes new liturgy Ten Articles Act of 1536 bends away from RC doctrine Act of Disillusion of 1539 strips Rome of her English monasteries and lands; expels Roman monks who operated those properties Six Articles Act of 1539 reasserts some RC doctrine

Henrys Successors
Edward VI (with Edward Seymour) Parliament repeals Six Articles Act, replaces Latin liturgy with Cranmers more evangelical, Book of Common Prayer in English + passes Forty-Two Articles defining Church of England along Protestant lines Bloody Mary reasserts Romanism Elizabeth I (1558-160 ) Reestablishes moderate Protestantism Act of Supremacy (1558) reasserts Englands independence from pope Thirty-Nine Articles (1563) revises Edwards Forty-Two Articles establishes Anglican Church along Protestant lines many articles nebulous so as to appease Catholics 1580 Separatist church forms under Robert Browne

Reformation in Scotland
A Backward Nation Preparatory Blood of Martyrs John Knox Scottish Civil Wars Church of Scotland

John Knox (ca. 1513-1572)

John Knox
Life Setting Martyrdom of George Wishart Flees Scotland for Geneva to avoid Marian persecution Scottish Civil War Formation of Church of Scotland through Treaty of Edinburgh 1560 (ended war and gave Knox opening to establish Protestantism as state religion Church of Scotland becomes a Presbyterian state church based on Calvins teaching)

Anabaptists
Designation
Anabaptist = Greek term meaning to baptize again

Identity
A third distinct player in the Reformation with roots in earlier times persecuted by both sides Sought return to NT practice

Diversity

Deviant Examples of Anabaptists

The Anti-trinitarian Anabaptists Michael Servetus Pantheistic Anabaptists led by David Joris Mystical Anabaptists Hans Denck Chiliastic Anabaptists ILL: Munster Kingdom Melchior Hoffman (1500-1543)

Evangelical Anabaptists
The Swiss Anabaptists (Conrad Grebel, father of Swiss Anabaptist movement); George Blaurock, and Felix Mantz German Anabaptists (Balthasar Hubmaier) Dutch Anabaptists (Menno Simons) Moravian Anabaptists (Jacob Hutter)

Anabaptist Doctrinal Distinctives

Exclusively regenerate Church membership Believers baptism Lords Supper a memorial meal for baptized members only Stress authority of NT as well as soul liberty in the exercise of free conscience against blind submission Catholic Church Separation from the world, the RCC, and other abominations Civil government is ordained by God but operates outside the Church and is to be left largely to unbelievers Stressed simple church polity, authority of local church, and careful observance of qualifications for ministers Most rejected oath taking Many were pacifists and rejected capital punishment (due to the pervasive abuse of authority in this realm).

Historical Roots of Anabaptists

Historical information limited No prominent leader indicates roots in Medieval Underground

 The rapid appearance of Anabaptist over a wide area lends confirmation to what reliable historians have asserted: small communities of pious Christians, rarely appearing in historical records but endeavoring to reproduce the NT in simple, anticlerical, nonsacramental purity, were interspersed throughout the length and breadth of Europe in the centuries before the Reformation. It would have been impossible for them to leap full-grown into the focus of history had this not been true (Baker and Estep in Paige Patterson, Why I Am a Baptist, 66-67)

Anabaptists Split from Reformers

Early Cooperation Two Points of Sharp Disagreement Arise
Regenerate Church Anti-Sacralism

Anabaptists Persecuted by Catholics, Lutherans and Reformed

The Roman Catholic Counter-Reformation

Humanists: The Silent Players

As knowledge grew, fear decreased; men thought less of worshiping the unknown, and more of overcoming it. Every vital spirit was lifted up with a new confidence; barriers were broken down; there was no bound now to what man might do (p. 105) - Will Durant

Reformation Monument

Barbarian Invasions