Thursday, October 21, 2004

Clement and Philo

I seem to be a little behind in several ways these days, but due to a note on Jim Davila's blog I became aware of a new article by David T. Runia. A new issue of Vigiliae Christianae is out, and it contains the following piece, written by David: Clement of Alexandria and the Philonic Doctrine of the Divine Power(s), Vigiliae Christianae 58.3 (2004): 256-276.
Abstract: The present paper offers a comprehensive examination of how Clement appropriates the Philonic doctrine of the divine powers. It first examines the biblical basis of the doctrine, in which Pauline influence is superimposed on Genesis. It then successively treats the subject in the areas of theology, cosmology and the doctrine of creation, including the creation of humanity. For Clement experience of the divine power (usually in the singular) leads to knowledge of God (to the extent possible) and intimacy with him through the Son. Clement's Philonic heritage has enabled him to develop a positive and above all a dynamic theology.

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