During the first four centuries of the common era, scholars and theologians laid the ground work for Christian doctrines that have shaped the faith and practice of believers for two millenia. This was the formative period of Christianity when the major theological tenets of the faith were articulated. The writings of the earliest Christians continue to serve as a vital source of inspiration and guidance for Christians around the world. This Companion offers an overview of Christianity's foundational beliefs and practices. Providing an historiographical overview of the topic, it includes essays on the key thinkers and texts, as well as doctrines and practices that emerged during early Christian era. The volume covers the range of texts produced over four centuries and written by theologians hailing from throughout the Mediterranean world, including the Latin West, North Africa, and the Greek east. Written by an international team of scholars, this Companion serves an accessible introduction to the topic for students and scholars alike.
‘In this collection we are brought into the presence of early Christian theologians to listen to what they have to say – not as words about God building up a history of doctrine, but instead as distinctive voices, sounding in their different contexts. An interdisciplinary line-up of scholars demonstrate how these voices were united in a harmonious polyphony of characteristic concerns, shaped by the desire to communicate, defend and above all, inculcate the practice of Christian faith in forms of life and devotion. The overall effect is as inspiring as a piece of Renaissance polyphony.'
Carol Harrison - Lady Margaret Professor of Divinity at Oxford University
‘This Cambridge Companion is crisp, easy to read and understand, and to the point. It focuses on major authors rather than themes, from the beginning to Chalcedon. Written by area specialists and well coordinated, it is a very helpful and informative guide to early Christian theology for students and scholars alike.'
Ilaria Ramelli - Stanford University and Cambridge University
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