Explanation
Justin Martyr (studied in Ephesus), established a Christian school in Rome. Wrote "First Apology" and "Second Apology" addressing Roman authorities. || Marcion of Sinope: Active in Rome; developed his canon excluding the Old Testament. Excommunicated for his teachings, which spurred the Church to formalize the New Testament canon. || Clement of Rome: Early bishop; authored "First Epistle of Clement" to the Corinthians. || Tacitus: Roman historian who documented Nero's persecution of Christians.
Irenaeus of Lyon: Born in Smyrna, was a priest in Lyon and later became the bishop. Influential theologian who authored "Against Heresies," combating Gnostic teachings. Emphasized apostolic tradition and the unity of Scripture. Irenaeus's work was pivotal in shaping orthodox Christian theology.
Irenaeus was born here too! || Polycarp of Smyrna: Bishop and one of the earliest Christian martyrs. His martyrdom is documented in "The Martyrdom of Polycarp." According to Irenaeus and Tertullian, he was a disciple of the Apostle John, linking him to the apostolic tradition.
Justin Martyr studied philosophy here and is the setting of his "Dialogue with Trypho"
Tertullian: First major Christian author to write in Latin, born here. Wrote "Apology," "Prescription Against Heretics," and works on Christian ethics. Coined theological terms like "Trinity" (Trinitas). || Perpetua and Felicitas: Christian martyrs whose imprisonment and execution are detailed in "The Martyrdom of Perpetua and Felicity." Their accounts provide insight into early Christian views on martyrdom and the role of women. || Cyprian of Carthage: Bishop who emphasized Church unity and the authority of bishops. Faced challenges during the Decian persecution regarding lapsed Christians.
Clement of Alexandria: Theologian who sought to harmonize Greek philosophy with Christian doctrine. Wrote "Protrepticus," "Paedagogus," and "Stromata." || Origen of Alexandria: Influential theologian and scholar. Authored "On First Principles" and developed the allegorical method of scriptural interpretation. Established a school in Caesarea Maritima after leaving Alexandria. || Valentinus: Gnostic theologian who possibly studied in Alexandria before teaching in Rome. Developed a complex cosmology involving divine emanations. || Basilides: Gnostic teacher who taught salvation through special knowledge. Active in Alexandria during the early 2nd century.
Crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus occurred in Jerusalem, Central figure of Christianity; his death and resurrection are foundational events.
Origen of Alexandria: Relocated here after conflicts in Alexandria. Established a school and continued his theological work. || Eusebius of Caesarea: Bishop and early Church historian.
Ignatius of Antioch: Bishop and early Christian martyr. Wrote seven letters to churches while en route to Rome for martyrdom. Emphasized ecclesiastical hierarchy and the importance of unity. || John Chrysostom: Born and served as a presbyter in Antioch. Known for his eloquent preaching and writings against Judaizing Christians. || Paul the Apostle: Antioch served as his base for missionary journeys. The term "Christian" was first used in Antioch. || Paul of Samosata: Bishop of Antioch in the 3rd century. Advocated adoptionism, leading to his deposition.
Marcion of Sinope: Born here; developed a theological system contrasting the Old Testament God with the New Testament God. His teachings prompted the early Church to clarify doctrines and the biblical canon. Understanding Marcion's background aids in comprehending his influence and the Church's response to heresies
Very important archaeological site. Early intentional use of art by the Christian community, has images that survive from the Christian building excavated at Dura Europos
Jesus Christ: Hometown where he grew up. || Nazareth holds significance as the place where Jesus spent his early years.
John Chrysostom (c. 347–407) was an important figure in the late 4th century, known for his influential preaching, who eventually became ❗bishop of Constantinople❗. He was a prolific preacher, and his sermons are some of the most important sources for understanding the development of Christian thought in this period. His sermons against Judaizing Christians, which are extremely anti-Jewish, are particularly noteworthy because they were widely influential in later centuries. The lecture emphasizes the irony of Chrysostom's attempts to separate his congregation from Jewish practices, as his sermons unintentionally reveal the widespread coexistence and shared customs between Christians and Jews in 4th-century Antioch.
Crear