Date of Award
8-2012
Degree Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Arts (MA)
Department
Political Science
First Advisor
William Dean
Second Advisor
David Van Heemst
Third Advisor
Curt Rice
Abstract
This study explores the impact of Greek philosophical thought on Christian thought. I argue that Greek dualism is the fundamental contradiction in Christian thought creating problems for the doctrines of Christianity and ultimately thwarting a biblical approach to Christianity. From the early days of Christianity, Greek philosophy became absorbed into Christian thinking. Christian theology is often incorrectly interpreted through Platonic metaphysics. Platonic Christianity distinguishes between sacred and secular realms of the cosmos and devalues physical things. Furthermore, the tragedy is not only that Greek philosophy has had such a profound impact on Christianity, but also that its influence is still present in Christian thought today. Given this, it is necessary to examine Christian thought, from the early stages to today, noting areas where Greek elements are present in Christian doctrine and assessing how the presence of Greek philosophical thought distorts doctrines of faith.
Recommended Citation
Galvan-Barnett, Tammy, "Approaching Christianity: Exploring the Tragic Impact of Greek Philosophical Thought on Christian Thought" (2012). M.A. in Political Theory Theses. 1.
https://digitalcommons.olivet.edu/hist_mapt/1
Included in
Christianity Commons, Comparative Methodologies and Theories Commons, Continental Philosophy Commons, Ethics and Political Philosophy Commons, History of Christianity Commons, History of Philosophy Commons, History of Religions of Western Origin Commons, Metaphysics Commons, Religious Thought, Theology and Philosophy of Religion Commons
Comments
M.A. in Philosophy of Political Theory thesis completed in 2012 for Olivet Nazarene University.