Persecutors and Apologists in Early Christianity

These flashcards cover key terms related to the lecture on the persecution and defense of Christianity in the early centuries, highlighting the figures, concepts, and historical context relevant to the subject.

What is binitarian theology?

Binitarian theology emphasizes the two distinct divine persons within the Godhead, typically focusing on the relationship between God the Father and Jesus Christ.

What is an apologist?

An apologist is a person who defends and explains the Christian faith, often in response to critics.

What is martyrology?

Martyrology is the study of martyrs and their stories, often focusing on those who died for their faith.

What does religio licita mean?

Religio licita refers to the legal status of a religion that is permitted and recognized by the state.

What is a libellus?

A libellus is a certificate issued to Christians during the Roman Empire that confirmed they had sacrificed to the gods.

What is superstitio?

Superstitio refers to excessive or irrational religious beliefs or practices, often viewed as undesirable.

What is atheism?

Atheism is the absence of belief in the existence of deities or gods.

What is a Thyestian feast?

A Thyestian feast is a term that refers to a banquet associated with betrayal and cannibalism, derived from Greek mythology.

What is the agape meal?

The agape meal is a communal meal celebrating Christian fellowship and love, often associated with early Christian gatherings.

What does chi rho signify?

Chi rho is a Christian symbol formed by superimposing the letters 'X' (chi) and 'P' (rho), representing the name of Christ.

What is ichthus?

Ichthus is a symbol made by combining the Greek letters for 'fish,' used by early Christians as a secret sign.

Who is the Demiurge?

The Demiurge is a concept in philosophy and Gnosticism referring to a craftsman-like figure responsible for the fashioning and maintenance of the physical universe.

What is the Logos?

Logos is a Greek term meaning 'word' or 'reason,' often used in Christian theology to refer to Christ as the divine Word of God.

What is Middle Platonism?

Middle Platonism is a philosophical system that developed between Plato and Neoplatonism, emphasizing the existence of a transcendent realm and mediating entities.

What is the First God in the context of theology?

The First God refers to the supreme, transcendent source of existence, often equated with the ultimate principle in monotheistic thought.

What is the Second God?

The Second God often refers to a divine intermediary who emanates from the First God, playing a role in creation.

What is Stoicism?

Stoicism is an ancient Greek philosophy that teaches the development of self-control and fortitude as a means to overcome destructive emotions.

What is Logos endiathetos?

Logos endiathetos refers to the internal or inherent reason or thought, as opposed to expressed language.

What is Logos prophorikos?

Logos prophorikos refers to the outwardly expressed Word or reason, as in scriptural or spoken language.

What is Logos spermatikos?

Logos spermatikos refers to the 'seed' of the Logos, suggesting a generative aspect of divine reason present in creation.

What is Logos Theology?

Logos Theology is a theological framework focusing on the role of the Logos in creation, revelation, and salvation.

Who is The One Who Is?

The One Who Is is a title for God representing ultimate existence and reality in metaphysical discussions.

What are anonymous Christians?

Anonymous Christians refer to individuals who may not explicitly identify as Christian but embody Christian values and ethics.

What is binitarian theology?

Binitarian theology is a theological view that emphasizes two primary divine figures, typically referring to God and Christ, in the Christian tradition.