BY JOHN OF DAMASCUS From “An Exact Exposition” a summation and synthesis of 8th Century church doctrine. Chapter 25. Concerning what is in our own power, that is, concerning Free-will. The first enquiry involved in the consideration of free-will, that is, of what is in our own power, is whether anything is in our power: […]
Predestination
Predestination (Part III)
This is part three on Symeon the New Theologian who wrote on the Biblical topics of predestination and fore-ordination. St Symeon reflects the consensus of teaching of the Church, long before John Calvin made it the cornerstone of his system. Repentance and predestination to salvation – Symeon the New Theologian While he was still in […]
Predestination (Part II)
This is part two of three posts on Symeon the New Theologian who wrote on the Biblical topics of predestination and fore-ordination. Symeon reflects the consensus of teaching of the Church, long before John Calvin made it the cornerstone of his own system. The Fore-Ordained The Church is the body of Christ, His bride, the […]
Predestination (Part I)
Symeon the New Theologian was born in Galatia in the year 949. He was educated in Constantinople, and became abbot of the monastery of St. Mamas. He reposed on March 12, 1022. In his second Ethical Discourse, he discusses a number of topics, including St. Paul’s doctrine of predestination and following the consensus of the […]