LATEST SEMINAR:
Topic: Origen's Contra Celsum: Christian Apologetics in the Third Century
Instructor: Dr. Nathan Greeley Date: June 6, 2024 Time: 8:00pm-10:00pm EST Cost: $15.00 Origen of Alexandria (c. 185–c. 254) is one of the most brilliant, controversial, and influential theologians of the patristic era. Throughout the history of the church, he has had both defenders and detractors. One thing nearly all agree upon, however, is that he cannot be ignored by anyone who has an interest in the development of Christian thought. In this seminar, we will explore and evaluate his monumental apologetic work, Contra Celsum. Written in response to a pagan philosopher named Celsus, Origen in this book touches on a vast number of topics, many of which are still significant for Christian apologetics today. Often his answers are marked by wisdom and fidelity to the biblical witness, but sometimes faulty assumptions undermine the usefulness of his arguments. Giving attention to this work therefore provides contemporary Christians with two major benefits: it furnishes us with insights of enduring relevance to the apologetic task, and it also warns us of the pitfalls of adopting unbiblical premises in our efforts to show the reasonableness of Christianity. |