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1517
{"author":[{"id":77705391534,"isPublished":true,"name":"Bruce Hillman","type":"foreignid"}],"curriculum":[{"id":156570879758,"isPublished":true,"name":"Introduction to the Fathers","type":"foreignid"}],"hs_child_table_id":0,"hs_created_at":1708208928361,"hs_created_by_user_id":7402058,"hs_deleted_at":0,"hs_id":157393539348,"hs_initial_published_at":1771411012089,"hs_is_edited":false,"hs_published_at":1771412101437,"hs_updated_at":1721639161525,"hs_updated_by_user_id":44990401,"lesson_type":{"createdAt":1721628184859,"createdByUserId":44990401,"id":4,"isHubspotDefined":false,"label":"Resources","labelTranslations":{},"name":"Resources","order":2,"type":"option","updatedAt":1721628184859,"updatedByUserId":44990401},"name":"Course Guidebook (Click Resources to Access)","poster":{"url":"https://5475273.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/5475273/1200x630_ChurchFathers_FBBanner_FINAL.jpg","altText":"","height":630,"type":"image","width":1200},"summary":"

Welcome to the Early Church! 

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We are excited to embark on this journey with you through the foundations of the Early Church.

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Before diving into the lessons, we invite you to download your Free Course Guidebook. You can click 'Resources' and then 'Download' to get your digital copy now. This essential resource is tailored to enhance your learning experience, providing you with a comprehensive overview of the course structure, key topics, and additional reading materials. It's your roadmap to navigating the rich history and enduring legacy of the early church. 

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What's Inside Your Guidebook?

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  • An outline of the course curriculum
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  • Detailed descriptions of each lesson
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  • Key figures and events to watch for
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  • Thought-provoking questions for reflection
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  • Recommended readings to further your study
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Ready to get started? By clicking 'next,' you can immediately start with Lesson One and step into the world of the early Christians, uncovering the challenges they faced, the faith they exhibited, and the incredible growth of Christianity.

","video_order":1}
{"author":[{"id":77705391534,"isPublished":true,"name":"Bruce Hillman","type":"foreignid"}],"curriculum":[{"id":156570879758,"isPublished":true,"name":"Introduction to the Fathers","type":"foreignid"}],"hs_child_table_id":0,"hs_created_at":1708105660266,"hs_created_by_user_id":7402058,"hs_deleted_at":0,"hs_id":157248378369,"hs_initial_published_at":1771411012089,"hs_is_edited":false,"hs_published_at":1771412101437,"hs_updated_at":1708211402210,"hs_updated_by_user_id":44990401,"lesson_type":{"createdAt":1721628184859,"createdByUserId":0,"id":1,"isHubspotDefined":false,"label":"Lesson","labelTranslations":{},"name":"Lesson","order":0,"type":"option","updatedAt":1721628184859,"updatedByUserId":0},"name":"Introduction to the Fathers","poster":{"url":"https://5475273.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/5475273/1200x630_ChurchFathers_FBBanner_FINAL.jpg","altText":"","height":630,"type":"image","width":1200},"summary":"
Welcome to the first session! In this video, we'll delve into the historical setting and context of the Early Church, meet the influential Church Fathers, and understand their classifications by scholars. We'll also outline the structure and objectives of our course, highlighting its strengths and areas for deeper exploration. This lesson sets the groundwork for our journey into the theological foundations that have shaped Christian orthodoxy.","video":"https://5475273.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/5475273/The%20Early%20Church_Course%201_Final%20(1).mp4","video_order":2}
{"author":[{"id":77705391534,"isPublished":true,"name":"Bruce Hillman","type":"foreignid"}],"curriculum":[{"id":156570879758,"isPublished":true,"name":"Introduction to the Fathers","type":"foreignid"}],"hs_child_table_id":0,"hs_created_at":1708112140543,"hs_created_by_user_id":7402058,"hs_deleted_at":0,"hs_id":157270709281,"hs_initial_published_at":1771411012089,"hs_is_edited":false,"hs_published_at":1771412101437,"hs_updated_at":1708211400262,"hs_updated_by_user_id":44990401,"lesson_type":{"createdAt":1721628184859,"createdByUserId":0,"id":2,"isHubspotDefined":false,"label":"Quiz","labelTranslations":{},"name":"Quiz","order":1,"type":"option","updatedAt":1721628184859,"updatedByUserId":0},"name":"Lesson #1 Quiz","summary":"Curious to see how well you know the Early Church Fathers? Take the quiz!","video_order":3}
{"author":[{"id":77705391534,"isPublished":true,"name":"Bruce Hillman","type":"foreignid"}],"curriculum":[{"id":156575711122,"isPublished":true,"name":"Patristic Context and Anxieties","type":"foreignid"}],"hs_child_table_id":0,"hs_created_at":1708114911386,"hs_created_by_user_id":7402058,"hs_deleted_at":0,"hs_id":157247063651,"hs_initial_published_at":1771411012089,"hs_is_edited":false,"hs_published_at":1771412101437,"hs_updated_at":1708446998259,"hs_updated_by_user_id":44990401,"name":"Patristic Context and Anxieties","poster":{"url":"https://5475273.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/5475273/1200x630_ChurchFathers_FBBanner_FINAL.jpg","altText":"","height":630,"type":"image","width":1200},"summary":"Welcome to Session 2! In this video, we'll dive into the social, political, and emotional landscapes that shaped the lives and writings of the Church Fathers. You'll learn about the complexities of Christian identity formation amidst interactions with Jews and Gentiles, and the external perceptions that challenged early Christians. We'll explore the significant sacrifices required of Christians—emotionally, financially, and existentially—and how these demands set them apart in a world where they were often viewed as poor and outsiders yet remarkable for their charity and convictions. This lesson offers a profound look at the trials and resilience of early Christian communities.","video":"https://5475273.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/5475273/The%20Early%20Church_Course%202_Final.mp4"}
{"author":[{"id":77705391534,"isPublished":true,"name":"Bruce Hillman","type":"foreignid"}],"curriculum":[{"id":156575711122,"isPublished":true,"name":"Patristic Context and Anxieties","type":"foreignid"}],"hs_child_table_id":0,"hs_created_at":1708116024409,"hs_created_by_user_id":7402058,"hs_deleted_at":0,"hs_id":157280007765,"hs_initial_published_at":1771411012089,"hs_is_edited":false,"hs_published_at":1771412101437,"hs_updated_at":1708210794688,"hs_updated_by_user_id":44990401,"lesson_type":{"createdAt":1721628184859,"createdByUserId":0,"id":2,"isHubspotDefined":false,"label":"Quiz","labelTranslations":{},"name":"Quiz","order":1,"type":"option","updatedAt":1721628184859,"updatedByUserId":0},"name":"Lesson #2 Quiz","summary":"How much did you catch about the early Christians' world? Test your knowledge now with the quiz!","video_order":2}
{"author":[{"id":77705391534,"isPublished":true,"name":"Bruce Hillman","type":"foreignid"}],"curriculum":[{"id":156575711234,"isPublished":true,"name":"Patristic Witness in Martyrdom","type":"foreignid"}],"hs_child_table_id":0,"hs_created_at":1708116093257,"hs_created_by_user_id":7402058,"hs_deleted_at":0,"hs_id":157280007766,"hs_initial_published_at":1771411012089,"hs_is_edited":false,"hs_published_at":1771412101437,"hs_updated_at":1708209933203,"hs_updated_by_user_id":44990401,"name":"Patristic Witness in Martyrdom","poster":{"url":"https://5475273.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/5475273/1200x630_ChurchFathers_FBBanner_FINAL.jpg","altText":"","height":630,"type":"image","width":1200},"summary":"

In Session 3, we delve into the era of Christian persecution and martyrdom, uncovering the reasons behind the martyrdom of early Christians, their theological understanding of this ultimate sacrifice, and their conduct in the face of relentless persecution.

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Throughout this video, we'll explore how martyrdom served as a profound witness, authenticating believers' faith through their willingness to emulate Christ's Passion and \"take up the cross.\" This lesson also tackles the challenges faced by the Church in dealing with believers who faltered under persecution, leading to significant theological debates on forgiveness and sin, resolved by the influential Church Father Cyprian. Join me as we examine the strength, unity, and complex dilemmas of the early Christian.

","video":"https://5475273.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/5475273/The%20Early%20Church_Course%203_Final.mp4"}
{"author":[{"id":77705391534,"isPublished":true,"name":"Bruce Hillman","type":"foreignid"}],"curriculum":[{"id":156575711234,"isPublished":true,"name":"Patristic Witness in Martyrdom","type":"foreignid"}],"hs_child_table_id":0,"hs_created_at":1708116130648,"hs_created_by_user_id":7402058,"hs_deleted_at":0,"hs_id":157247063664,"hs_initial_published_at":1771411012089,"hs_is_edited":false,"hs_published_at":1771412101437,"hs_updated_at":1708210819668,"hs_updated_by_user_id":44990401,"lesson_type":{"createdAt":1721628184859,"createdByUserId":0,"id":2,"isHubspotDefined":false,"label":"Quiz","labelTranslations":{},"name":"Quiz","order":1,"type":"option","updatedAt":1721628184859,"updatedByUserId":0},"name":"Lesson #3 Quiz","summary":"The early Church is fascinating, isn't it? Let's see what you've learned in this session with a quick, fun quiz!","video_order":2}
{"author":[{"id":77705391534,"isPublished":true,"name":"Bruce Hillman","type":"foreignid"}],"curriculum":[{"id":156575711235,"isPublished":true,"name":"Patristic Apologetics","type":"foreignid"}],"hs_child_table_id":0,"hs_created_at":1708116148694,"hs_created_by_user_id":7402058,"hs_deleted_at":0,"hs_id":157247063665,"hs_initial_published_at":1771411012089,"hs_is_edited":false,"hs_published_at":1771412101437,"hs_updated_at":1708210047725,"hs_updated_by_user_id":44990401,"name":"Patristic Apologetics","poster":{"url":"https://5475273.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/5475273/1200x630_ChurchFathers_FBBanner_FINAL.jpg","altText":"","height":630,"type":"image","width":1200},"summary":"

Welcome to Session 4! Today we'll examine a pivotal shift in the Early Church's approach to faith and reason. Initially skeptical of philosophy, the Church Fathers gradually integrated it with theology, enriching Christian apologetics—a tradition of defending the faith. We'll explore the journey from rejection to integration, highlighting key figures like Tertullian with his staunch faith-based stance, and Justin Martyr, who embraced a philosophical approach to explain and defend Christian beliefs. Additionally, we'll examine how pagans perceived philosophy and delve into Athenagoras' sophisticated philosophical arguments on the Trinity. This lesson invites you to see how the early Christians navigated the waters of faith and intellect, crafting a legacy of thoughtful, reasoned belief.

","video":"https://5475273.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/5475273/The%20Early%20Church_Course%204_Final.mp4"}
{"author":[{"id":77705391534,"isPublished":true,"name":"Bruce Hillman","type":"foreignid"}],"curriculum":[{"id":156575711235,"isPublished":true,"name":"Patristic Apologetics","type":"foreignid"}],"hs_child_table_id":0,"hs_created_at":1708116183253,"hs_created_by_user_id":7402058,"hs_deleted_at":0,"hs_id":157247063666,"hs_initial_published_at":1771411012089,"hs_is_edited":false,"hs_published_at":1771412101437,"hs_updated_at":1708210869415,"hs_updated_by_user_id":44990401,"lesson_type":{"createdAt":1721628184859,"createdByUserId":0,"id":2,"isHubspotDefined":false,"label":"Quiz","labelTranslations":{},"name":"Quiz","order":1,"type":"option","updatedAt":1721628184859,"updatedByUserId":0},"name":"Lesson #4 Quiz","summary":"Think you've mastered the material of faith and reason in the early church? Test your knowledge now in the quiz.","video_order":2}

The Early Church: Christ, Controversies and Characters

Explore the beginnings of Christianity

Discover how a small, persecuted group transformed into the world's largest religion. Uncover the pivotal controversies, influential figures, and the unyielding faith that propelled the early Christian church forward. This eight-lecture series offers a deep dive into the early church’s life, exploring the foundational moments and teachings that influence Christianity today. From worship practices to the courage of martyrs, this course connects the past with the present in an engaging and insightful manner.

Topics Covered in the Course

  • Key figures in early Christian history and their contributions to theology.
  • The major controversies that shaped Christian doctrine.
  • The daily life, worship practices, and challenges of early Christians.
  • The role of art, music, and sacraments in early Christian communities.
  • The defense of Christianity by the first apologists and the bravery of the martyrs.

If you are interested in the history of Christianity, church traditions, or the enduring legacy of the early church fathers, this course is for you.

Let's Get Started

This course contains eight sessions, each containing a video lesson, course notes, and a quiz. You are also invited to join the discussion throughout the course as you watch these videos. You can complete this course at your own pace. So we encourage you to work through it at whatever pace is most comfortable for you. At the end, you will receive a 'Course Completion Certificate' via email. 

Professor

Bruce Hillman

Bruce Hillman is a Scholar in Residence at 1517. He Holds a BA in History and Political Science from Quinnipiac University, an MDiv. from the Lutheran Brethren Seminary, and an STM in Patristics from Drew University; He is the former Lead Pastor at Hillside Lutheran Brethren Church in Succasunna New Jersey where he served for 16 years. His research involves Augustinian studies, Early Christianity, Postmodernism, and hermeneutics. In his free time, he enjoys gardening and cooking. He is an avid student of both British and Japanese cultures and traditions. Other areas of academic interest include: Karl Barth, the question of certainty, Ancient Near-Eastern Wisdom Literature, Asian Christianity, church and culture, and philosophies of truth.

Curriculum

Introduction to the Fathers
Patristic Context and Anxieties
Patristic Witness in Martyrdom
Patristic Apologetics
How the Fathers Read Scripture
Worship and Prayer in the Early Church
Sacraments in the Early Church
The Incarnation: Seeing for Believing

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