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Tertullian

146quotes

Tertullian: The Father of Western Theology


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Full Name and Common Aliases

Tertullian's full name was Quintus Septimius Florens Tertullianus. He is commonly referred to as the "Father of Western Theology" due to his significant contributions to the development of Christian doctrine.

Birth and Death Dates

Tertullian was born around 160 AD in Carthage, a city in modern-day Tunisia. Unfortunately, there is no record of his exact date of birth or death. However, it is believed that he died around 220 AD.

Nationality and Profession(s)

Tertullian was a Roman citizen by birth, but his nationality is often attributed to the region of Carthage, which was then a part of the Roman Empire. He was a skilled lawyer and scholar who applied his knowledge of law to his Christian faith.

Early Life and Background

Growing up in Carthage, Tertullian was exposed to various philosophical and theological influences. As a young man, he studied law and became a respected jurist in Rome. However, it is believed that he converted to Christianity around 193 AD, after which he dedicated his life to serving the Church.

Early Christian Influences

Tertullian's conversion to Christianity was likely influenced by the early Christian communities in Carthage. He was particularly drawn to the teachings of Montanism, a Christian movement that emphasized the importance of spiritual gifts and prophecy. This influence can be seen in his writings, which often emphasize the role of the Holy Spirit in guiding the Church.

Major Accomplishments

Tertullian's most significant contribution to Christianity is his extensive writing on theology, apologetics, and ethics. He wrote over 30 books, including treatises on baptism, the Eucharist, and the Trinity. His writings demonstrate a deep understanding of Christian doctrine and a commitment to defending the faith against its critics.

Notable Works

Some of Tertullian's most notable works include:

_De Anima_ (On the Soul), which explores the relationship between the soul and the body
 _De Baptismo_ (On Baptism), which examines the sacrament of baptism in detail
_Adversus Praxean_ (Against Praxeas), which defends the doctrine of the Trinity against the Gnostic heresy

Notable Works or Actions

In addition to his writings, Tertullian is notable for his actions as a leader in the early Christian Church. He was one of the first Christians to take a public stand against pagan idolatry and persecution.

Persecution of Christians

During this time, Emperor Septimius Severus had launched a campaign to suppress Christianity throughout the empire. Tertullian responded by writing _Ad Scapulam_ (To Scapula), a treatise that condemned the persecution of Christians as unjust and unwarranted.

Impact and Legacy

Tertullian's impact on Western theology cannot be overstated. His writings helped shape the development of Christian doctrine, particularly in the areas of sacraments, baptism, and the Trinity.

Influence on Later Theologians

Tertullian's ideas influenced many later theologians, including St. Augustine of Hippo. Augustine often referenced Tertullian's works in his own writings, demonstrating the enduring impact of Tertullian's theology.

Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered

Tertullian is widely quoted and remembered for several reasons:

His extensive writings on Christian doctrine provide valuable insights into the early Church
His commitment to defending the faith against its critics has inspired countless Christians throughout history
 His emphasis on the importance of spiritual gifts and prophecy continues to influence Christian theology today

Quotes by Tertullian

Tertullian's insights on:

It is certain because it is impossible.
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It is certain because it is impossible.
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In very deed, pestilence, and famine, and wars, and earthquakes have to be regarded as a remedy for nations, as the means of pruning the luxuriance of the human race.
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In very deed, pestilence, and famine, and wars, and earthquakes have to be regarded as a remedy for nations, as the means of pruning the luxuriance of the human race.
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What has Athens to do with Jerusalem?
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What has Athens to do with Jerusalem?
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Nothing that is God's is obtainable by money.
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Nothing that is God's is obtainable by money.
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He is a man, who is to be a man, the fruit is always present in the seed.
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He is a man, who is to be a man, the fruit is always present in the seed.
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Nature is schoolmistress, the soul the pupil; and whatever one has taught or the other has learned has come from God – the Teacher of the teacher.
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Nature is schoolmistress, the soul the pupil; and whatever one has taught or the other has learned has come from God – the Teacher of the teacher.
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It is certain because it is impossible. -Certum est quia impossibile.
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It is certain because it is impossible. -Certum est quia impossibile.
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The usual complaint is, ‘I have no other way of earning a living.’ The harsh reply can be, ‘Do you have to live?’
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The usual complaint is, ‘I have no other way of earning a living.’ The harsh reply can be, ‘Do you have to live?’
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The nature of rumor is known to all.
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The nature of rumor is known to all.
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In one sense there will be something difficult even for God – namely, that which He has not done – not because He could not, but because He would not, do it. For with God, to be willing is to be able, and to be unwilling is to be unable; all that He has willed, however, He has both been able to accomplish, and has displayed His ability.
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In one sense there will be something difficult even for God – namely, that which He has not done – not because He could not, but because He would not, do it. For with God, to be willing is to be able, and to be unwilling is to be unable; all that He has willed, however, He has both been able to accomplish, and has displayed His ability.
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