Justification by Faith in Early Church: An Overview of Doctrinal Change from the Early Church to Medieval Time

Exson Pane

doi:10.35974/isc.v11i7.3523

Authors

Exson Pane Universitas Advent Indonesia

https://doi.org/10.35974/isc.v11i7.3523

Keywords:

Justification, Theology, Historical Development, Philosophical Influence

Abstract

This paper examines the evolution of the doctrine of justification from the early Church through the medieval period, focusing on shifts in theological understanding and philosophical influences. It aims to trace the development of justification doctrine and its implications for Christian theology. The study employs a comparative historical analysis, reviewing primary sources from early Church fathers such as Clement of Rome and Irenaeus of Lyons, through Augustine of Hippo’s emphasis on justification by faith alone, to the medieval contributions of Anselm of Canterbury and Thomas Aquinas. This analysis highlights how early Christian theologians integrated faith, works, and sacramental rites into their understanding of justification. It also explores Augustine's transformative impact, which centered on divine grace and predestination, contrasting with Pelagius's focus on human effort. The medieval period introduced significant shifts, influenced by the transition from Neo-Platonism to Aristotelian philosophy. The paper details how Anselm’s satisfaction theory framed justification in terms of divine justice and Christ's atoning sacrifice, while Thomas Aquinas further developed this with a synthesis of Aristotelian logic and Christian doctrine, emphasizing a cooperative process between divine grace and human free will. The findings underscore the dynamic interplay between faith, reason, and ecclesiastical authority in shaping Christian theological perspectives. This comparative analysis provides valuable insights into the doctrinal shifts and philosophical underpinnings that have shaped the doctrine of justification, offering a comprehensive understanding of its historical development and theological significance.

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