A History of the Church (Week 5)
It's been a while since we had anyone share their story with us, but this week Betsy graced us with hers. If you missed it you're just going to have to ask her yourself next time you see her.
George continued our series on the history of the church picking up where Brent had left off by talking about establishing Christian doctrine.
Early Christians struggled with leadership and doctrinal authority in the church. One example is Clement's letters to the Corinthian church after they had overthrew their leadership. What gave Clement the authority to admonish and correct the church? Tradition has it that the apostles passed their spiritual authority down to spiritual successors to guide the church. The name these church leaders were given was "Elder" or "Bishop".
During this time scripture was being established, particularly the gospels. There was some confusion as to the nature of God. Gnosticism and Marcionism established a dualistic view of God. Arianism said that the Son was created by the Father. The elders of the church combated these heresies and established important Christian doctrine at the Council of Nicea and other church meetings.
Here are some of the primary doctrinal points established by the early church:
- Scripture is inspired.
- The God of the Old Testament is also the God of the New Testament.
- Tradition is important. (apostolic teaching)
- Jesus is the same "stuff" as God.
- The son is "co-equal" with God.
- Only God initiates salvation.
- The Holy Spirit is also God. (added shortly after original Council of Nicea)
Two systems of thought began to develop in the church, one in the east and the other in the west. In 1050 they would later become the Roman Catholic and Greek Orthodox churches.
We will learn more about early theology, church leadership, and the councils that helped to determine doctrine this coming week.
Announcements
- May 1st - Go And Be! - Day of service. Details here.
- May 5th - Cinco De Mayo Celebration - 6:30 pm at Los Cabos in Addison.
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