Ebook
In this in-depth exploration, the authors embark on a journey to uncover the intriguing questions about the Trinity's emergence in the writings of the Apostolic Fathers. As this study takes a close look at whether we can find signs of the Trinity and shared understandings in these early texts, shedding light on whether these writings reflect a "triadic way of talking about God." A crucial aspect of the investigation is to see if there is a common belief about the Trinity, offering insights into the theological ideas of that time. A central question arises: Did the early Apostolic Fathers have a sense of the Trinity? If so, how did they try to understand it?
Immersed in the early Christian mindset, this book examines how each text talks God the Father, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit in relation to each other. With scholars like Larry Hurtado and Richard Bauckham guiding the way, the study explores the connections and differences between the beliefs about God the Father, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit in the Apostolic Fathers corpus.
This rich work connects the past with contemporary theological questions. Through careful research, Trinitarian Perspectives in the Apostolic Fathers reveals the interplay of history, faith, and divine understanding. This book is a helpful resource for theologians, historians, and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of early Christian beliefs.
“The Trinity is a mystery of the church’s faith, but it has roots in the texts and traditions of the ancient church. In this book, Mina Fouad Tawfike and Emad Atef Ezzat Hanna show readers how the apostolic fathers—the generation of believers after the apostles—began to think, pray, and proclaim their faith in ways that would eventually crystallize into the trinitarian doctrines of the later church. An informative read by two learned scholars who have immersed themselves in the atmosphere of ancient Christianity.”
—Michael F. Bird, deputy principal, Ridley College
“This is a well-framed assessment of a neglected topic. Its thoughtful and nuanced discussion offers much to commend.”
—Michael Holmes, professor emeritus of biblical studies and early Christianity, Bethel University
Mina Fouad Tawfike is a lecturer at St Athanasius Provincial Seminary and a researcher at the Institute of Coptic Studies at Alexandria University. He has authored and contributed to several books.
Emad Atef Ezzat Hanna is a lecturer at Nubia Mountains Institute (part of St Athanasius Provincial Seminary). He has authored two books.