Early Apologists
To Autolycus
Theophilus of Antioch · c. 180
Historical Context
Three books written to a learned pagan friend who had mocked Theophilus's faith.
Summary
Theophilus argues from creation and from the prophets to the truth of Christianity, surveys biblical history from Adam through the kings of Judah, and is the first Christian writer to use the Greek word Trias (Trinity) of God, the Word, and Wisdom.
Major Themes
- Trinity (first use of 'Trias')
- Creation
- Biblical chronology
- Prophecy
Important Quotations
“The three days which were before the luminaries are types of the Trinity, of God, and His Word, and His Wisdom.”— To Autolycus 2.15
Related Church Fathers
Primary Sources
Further Reading
- Rick Rogers, Theophilus of Antioch: The Life and Thought of a Second-Century Bishop