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Who is Seen As being First Author To Write a Systematic Theology of The Faith?
- Thread starter JesusFan
- Start date
The systematic theology, as in a complete view or systematic theology with respect to certain aspects?
If the later, it is noted that Ignatius (?-115-Ad Trall., c. 9) gives us "the first distinct statement of the faith drawn up in a series of propositions.
It is appears however that John of Damascus (700-760) was the first to actually write a basic theological work. His work called "Summary of the Orthodox Faith" is considered the earliest though primitive work of Systematic Theology. And other followed after him, elucidating various aspects, themes, and philosophies.
There are many varied views and works of theological ideas throughout history and many of which few if any believers today would agree with them.
So it might better be asked what 'type' of systematic theological system are referring to, and whether or not you are speaking to an exhaustive view with outlines all that one holds to. Remember the Roman Catholic Church has it own as well, but are we speaking of a protestant 'type' of work that we, as believers today, agree with regarding cardinal doctrines, and possibly ordinances verse sacraments?
IF you are referring to the exhaustive not Catholic 'types' then I 'think' John Calvin is noted for putting together and producing the first of the more exhaustive works on the issue of theology.
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Some people have suggested The Didache is the first "systematic" theology. I'm not completely convinced.
In terms of systematic, like we would define it today, the earliest formalization of theology came from Augustine. Though given works like Irenaeus' Adversus Heresies or even Origen's works but there are so much that is lost from the early period. Another difficulty from the period prior to Augustine is that so much of what was being written was in response to heretics and false teaching they didn't have time to formalize the whole system.
Though some could argue Aquinas was the first complete system, which is a good argument because of the nature of his Summa, there are, throughout Augustine's works, a formalized system.
I don't think the earliest church writers (i.e. Ignatius, Clement, Sherpherd of Hermas, Justin Martyr, etc) developed a holistic theology that could be seen as "systematic."
In terms of systematic, like we would define it today, the earliest formalization of theology came from Augustine. Though given works like Irenaeus' Adversus Heresies or even Origen's works but there are so much that is lost from the early period. Another difficulty from the period prior to Augustine is that so much of what was being written was in response to heretics and false teaching they didn't have time to formalize the whole system.
Though some could argue Aquinas was the first complete system, which is a good argument because of the nature of his Summa, there are, throughout Augustine's works, a formalized system.
I don't think the earliest church writers (i.e. Ignatius, Clement, Sherpherd of Hermas, Justin Martyr, etc) developed a holistic theology that could be seen as "systematic."
Osage Bluestem
Member
Moses :smilewinkgrin:
Didn't Origen take a swing in On First Principles before Augustine? I'm more of a fan of Augustine, btw.
I'd rate the Didache as more a discipleship pamphlet for new Christians. It teaches practice more than doctrine.
I'm not convinced Origen was even a Christian. He believed in reincarnation, the subordination of Christ (He was "less divine" than the Father), other equally heretical things.
it was John of Damascus (700-760) who first actually carried out such a plan. His EkdosiV akribhV thV orqodoxou PistewV, or Summary of the Orthodox Faith, may be considered the earliest work of Systematic Theology. This is the opinon of A.H/ Strong, author of Systematic Theology, turn of last century.
Cheers,
Jim
Cheers,
Jim