Christian leaders Quote by Bart D. Ehrman
““Modalism was the view that evidently was held by a majority of Christians at the beginning of the third century—including the most prominent Christian leaders in the church, the bishops of the church of Rome (i.e., the early “popes”).””
About This Quote
Source Book: "The Triumph of Christianity" by Bart D. Ehrman, 2013
Early third‑century Christianity largely embraced Modalism, a belief that the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are not distinct persons.
In simple terms: Many early Christians believed in Modalism.
Key Takeaway
Recognize historical theological diversity.
Themes
theology
church history
doctrine
Mood
analytical
educational
Type
historical
theological
When to use this quote
- academic study
- faith education
- interfaith discussions
Key Concepts
early Christianity
heretical movements
ecumenical dialogue
Questions to Reflect On
- How does understanding early doctrines affect modern faith?
- What implications does Modalism have for Trinitarian belief?
A Different Perspective
Modern Christianity often rejects Modalism; context matters.
![“No one in this earthly prison of the body has sufficient strength of his own to press forward with a due degree of watchfulness, and the great majority [of Christians] are kept down with such great weakness that they stagger and halt and even creep on the ground, and so make very slight advances.” quote by John Calvin](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/1b1/john-calvin-490_body_no-one-in-this-earthly-prison-of-the-bod_1212392.jpg)
