Today we commence Tertullian's apology addressed to the Roman Rulers.
Firstly Tertullian points out the injustice shown to Christians by the Roman authorities - particularly their lack of proper examination of the charges against Christians.
Then Tertullian demonstrates that the Romans have themselves lost touch with their own laws of antiquity handed by their fathers.
Next Tertullian demonstrates that the murdering of children and incest is even a part of Roman culture and therefore ironic that Christians are accused of such acts.
Tertullian then attacks the Roman religions.
And to close today's reading, Tertullian gives a defence of Christianity by speaking about the:
(i) antiquity of Scripture;
(ii) Scripture's ability to predict the future, demonstrating a divine author;
(iii) life of Christ;
(iv) presence of spirits in the world.
I think I really like Tertullian's style of writing - certainly easy to read.
I was also pleased to see a condemnation of abortion: 'In our case, murder being once for all forbidden, we may not destroy even the fœtus in the womb, while as yet the human being derives blood from other parts of the body for its sustenance. To hinder a birth is merely a speedier man-killing; nor does it matter whether you take away a life that is born, or destroy one that is coming to the birth. That is a man which is going to be one; you have the fruit already in its seed.'
The Christian position against abortion certainly has a long history.
Conclude
Please post your own notes and thoughts in the comments section below.
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