A re-appraisal of Origen's Christology in the light of modern scholarship

Abstract

The main aim of the thesis is to present Origen's Christology within a historical perspective taking into account recent critical work. Chapter one deals with the life and times of Origen and examines the significance of these in assessing his Christology. Chapter two looks at the work of Origen and identifies the relevant extant texts which can be used to locate his Christology. Chapter three launches into a critical examination of his actual Christology, gathered from his texts and other important scholars in this field. It also raises the issues of the subordination in his concept of the Trinity, his understanding of the Incarnation and the Redemption, his doctrine of the pre-existence and his concept of the titles of Christ. Chapter four examines Origen's ancient Christological legacy, with specific reference to his orthodoxy and his involvement in the early Christological controversies, such as Arianism. The charges against Origen are tackled and refuted, showing that Origen's Christology was orthodox within his lifetime. Chapter five looks at Origen's Christology in modern patristic scholarship, which leans in Origan's favour. The second part of the chapter looks at the relevance of Origen in modern Christology. Origen's Christology is compared with modern christologies, and an attempt at constructing a new Christology based on Origen's, in order to demonstrate how it could be used today. After briefly being contrasted to Liberation Theology, Origen's Christology is re-appraisad. The final conclusion is reached in the vindication of the orthodoxy of Origan's Christology within his own time, and in the assertion that Origen's Christology is not systematic. Finally, some areas are suggested for further research.