Ethical Individualism in Clement of Alexandria

Authors

David Paulsen, Concordia College, St. Paul

Publication Date

1-1-1972

Document Type

Article

Keywords

clement of alexandria, ethics, individual, christian, gnostic, soul, apathy, pleasure, voelker, wagner, ascetic

Submission Type

Bible Study; Lecture; Sermon Prep

Abstract

It has been noted that Clement of Alexandria (ca. 150-215 A. D.) diverges sharply from primitive Christianity in important respects, such as his views on eschatology and the significance of the Law. It is my contention that Clement also diverges from almost the entire previous Christian tradition as far as we know it in the matter of ethics, in that he places individual perfection above communal concerns such as love and justice.

Disciplines

Religious Thought, Theology and Philosophy of Religion

Scripture References in this Resource (separated by semi-colons)

1 Corinthians 13:3; 1 Corinthians 13:7;

Submission Cost

Free

Submission Audience

Laity; Ministers; Scholars

Recommended Citation

Paulsen, David (1972) "Ethical Individualism in Clement of Alexandria," Concordia Theological Monthly: Vol. 43, Article 1.
Available at: https://scholar.csl.edu/ctm/vol43/iss1/1