Sin
This paper summarizes chapters from Gregg Allison’s Historical Theology: An Introduction to Christian Doctrine and Bruce Shelley’s Church History in Plain Language. In Chapter 16, Allison explores the concept of sin in the Christian tradition and examines how various church leaders perceived it. The author argues that the church’s understanding has long been that humans are sinful; therefore, Jesus is the natural salvation for humanity (Allison 2011).
The Bible describes human sinfulness, emphasizing the tendency of individuals to commit such actions. At the same time, Pelagius held that people, by nature, are not inclined to evil, and the sin of Adam described in the Holy Scriptures is only an example of behavior displeasing to God, not a necessary model for individuals (Allison 2011).
The concept of sin developed in parallel with church traditions. In early periods, the perception of sin was quite categorical, but in the Middle Ages, the distinction between mortal and venial sins was introduced (Allison 2011). During the Reformation, the church returned to the idea that all people are sinners and do not have the freedom to choose good or evil independently. In the modern period, John Wesley expanded on previous concepts by adding grace to the inherent sinfulness of man to prevent lousy behavior (Allison 2011). Moreover, other views in modern tradition support, to varying degrees, the idea that individuals are naturally inclined to sin.
Pope Gregory the Great
Chapter 18 of Shelley’s book talks about the historical and religious significance of Pope Gregory the Great. He played a decisive role in forming Christian Europe and structuring the church (Shelley 2021a). Moreover, Gregory’s involvement in political affairs strengthened the papal office, making him a significant political figure (Shelley 2021a).
The role of the Pope in politics is also demonstrated in Chapter 19, which describes the decisive role of Pope Gregory VII in establishing the relationship between church and state. As a result of the reforms, the church was freed from secular control, and the Pope was recognized as the primary authority for the church (Shelley 2021b). It began a confrontation between the church and the government for power and a decisive role in society.
Role of the Pope in Society
In Chapter 20, Shelley (2021c) describes in greater detail the transformations in the role and importance of the Pope in society. The papal office asserted authority over secular monarchs, and threats of excommunication were among the main governance tools (Shelley 2021c). The role of the Pope shifted to that of a mediator between God and humanity, making him a key figure in society.
Role of the Pope in Education
Finally, Chapter 21 focuses on opening universities and giving people access to education. Many scientists of the period considered the pursuit of knowledge a religious duty (Shelley 2021d). At the same time, the Pope remained a critical religious figure, and education helped strengthen this role in understanding society. Thus, all texts reveal important concepts and stages in the formation of the church. During this analysis, 100% of assigned readings were completed.
References
Allison, Gregg R. (2011). “Chapter 16. Sin.” In Historical Theology: An Introduction to Christian Doctrine, edited by Gregg R. Allison, 42-362. Zondervan Academic.
Shelley, Bruce L. (2021a). “Chapter 18. God’s Consul.” In Church history in plain language (5th ed.), edited by Marshall Shelley, 203-212. Zondervan Academic.
Shelley, Bruce L. (2021b). “Chapter 19. The Search for Unity.” In Church history in plain language (5th ed.), edited by Marshall Shelley, 213-223. Zondervan Academic.
Shelley, Bruce L. (2021c). “Chapter 20. Lifted in a Mystic Manner.” In Church history in plain language (5th ed.), edited by Marshall Shelley, 224-235. Zondervan Academic.
Shelley, Bruce L. (2021d). “Chapter 21. The Nectar of Learning.” In Church history in plain language (5th ed.), edited by Marshall Shelley, 236-246. Zondervan Academic.