Theophilus of Antioch

Rick Rogers's Theophilus of Antioch delves into the unique theological contributions of a second-century bishop, highlighting his moralistic Christian perspective.

In Theophilus of Antioch, Rick Rogers explores the life and theological contributions of Theophilus, a second-century Syrian bishop. Known for his efforts to promote a moralistic form of Christianity through his three books, collectively titled Ad Autolycum, Theophilus presents a unique perspective that diverges from the mainstream teachings of the early church. Despite the significance of his work, Theophilus has often been overlooked in favor of other contemporary theologians. Rogers aims to illuminate this gap by examining the rhetorical strategies and theological focus found in Ad Autolycum.

Rogers's analysis reveals that Theophilus's theological framework may align more closely with Hellenistic Judaism than with other early Christian thought. This insight challenges the prevailing notions of early Christian development and highlights the diverse theological landscape of the time. By dissecting Theophilus's arguments and the context in which they were made, Rogers provides readers with a comprehensive understanding of the bishop's contributions to Christian thought.

Theophilus of Antioch serves as an essential resource for scholars and students interested in early Christianity. It not only sheds light on Theophilus's work but also encourages a reevaluation of the influences that shaped early Christian doctrine. Through this book, Rogers invites readers to appreciate the complexities of early theological discourse and the importance of lesser-known figures like Theophilus.