Doctrine, Rule of Faith and Biblical Exegesis: A Response to Frances Young’s Doctrine and Scripture in Early Christianity
This article engages with Frances M. Young's two-volume work, Doctrine and Scripture in Early Christianity, with a primary focus on Volume One, Scripture, the Genesis of Doctrine. Young, a distinguished patristic scholar, here conducts an extensive examination of the interdependency of doctrine and scripture within early Christianity, addressing themes such as second- to fifth-century scriptural exegesis, the formation of the scriptural canon, and the emergence of Trinitarianism. The work is commended for its thorough historical-theological analysis, encompassing the early centuries of the Christian tradition. The article acknowledges the fragmentation present in early Christian studies and the necessity for integrative scholarly endeavours, like the present study by Young.
Key questions arise regarding the interpretations of early theologians like Justin, Marcion, and Valentinus, and their respective approaches to scripture. Additionally, the article explores Young's late-modern perspective on doctrinal development amidst modern biblical criticism. The significance of the Rule of Faith is emphasized as a crucial connection between early Christian doctrine and scripture. Ultimately, this article aims to both highlight and enhance Young's integrative approach and foster a deeper dialogue between scripture and doctrine, and with Young to suggest constructive avenues for future research in early Christian studies.
Key questions arise regarding the interpretations of early theologians like Justin, Marcion, and Valentinus, and their respective approaches to scripture. Additionally, the article explores Young's late-modern perspective on doctrinal development amidst modern biblical criticism. The significance of the Rule of Faith is emphasized as a crucial connection between early Christian doctrine and scripture. Ultimately, this article aims to both highlight and enhance Young's integrative approach and foster a deeper dialogue between scripture and doctrine, and with Young to suggest constructive avenues for future research in early Christian studies.
Publisert i International Journal of Systematic Theology, 2026
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