The Evolution of Christian Doctrine: Four Historical Eras and a New Trend

Christian doctrine has evolved over time, shaped by historical circumstances and theological interpretations. This evolution can be divided into four major eras, each with distinct characteristics of faith. Recently, a new trend known as the "New Law Era" has emerged. Below is an overview of these eras and their key features, presented in a clear and comprehensive manner.

1. The Era of the Law: Faith Centered on the Ten Commandments and Festivals

Key Features

• Origin:
  Rooted in the Ten Commandments and Mosaic Law given by God through Moses.

• Core Principles:

  • Loving God:
    Observing festivals like the Sabbath, Passover, and Feast of Tabernacles to maintain communion with God.
  • Loving Neighbors:
    Emphasizing the latter half of the Ten Commandments (honor parents, do not steal, etc.) to promote harmony among people.
  • Significance of Festivals:
    Festivals were central to worship, serving as tools to strengthen relationships with God and fellow believers.

2. The Apostolic Era: Fulfillment of the Law through Jesus

Key Changes

• The Era of the Law was fulfilled through the coming of Jesus and His sacrifice on the cross.

• Examples of Fulfillment:

  • Passover: Jesus became the sacrificial Lamb and offered Himself for humanity’s redemption.
  • Day of Atonement: Fulfilled through Jesus' atoning sacrifice in the heavenly sanctuary.
  • Feast of Tabernacles: Realized through the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, making believers the temple of God.

• New Covenant Era:

  • Jesus completed the Old Testament festivals, making temple sacrifices unnecessary.
  • The apostles spread Jesus’ teachings under the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

3. The Patristic Era: Church Divisions and New Doctrines

Beginning

• After the destruction of Israel in AD 70, the Apostolic Era ended. The church split into the Eastern Church (centered in Jerusalem) and the Western Church (centered in Rome).

Conflicts

• Disputes over communion practices and worship forms escalated between the two churches.

Council of Nicaea (AD 321):

• Key Developments:
  • Introduction of Sunday worship.
  • Revival of the tithe.
  • Establishment of the doctrine of the Trinity and the veneration of the cross.

End:

• The Patristic Era concluded in AD 749 with the death of Johannes, a bishop of the Eastern Church.

4. The Scholastic Era: Systematization of Theology and Doctrine

Characteristics

• Theological study became systematized, and scholastic methods expanded perspectives on Christian doctrine.

New Doctrines Introduced:

• Lent: A period of religious fasting and penitence.
• Relic Worship: The veneration of saints’ remains.
• Witch Hunts and Inquisitions: Persecution of heretics through extreme measures.
• Modernized Worship Practices: Innovations in traditional worship formats.

Impact:

• While this era laid the foundation for modern Christian theology, many argue it strayed from the Bible's original teachings.

5. The New Law Era: Revival of Festival-Based Churches

Post-1844 Revival

• Following the Scholastic Era, some churches began reinterpreting Old Testament laws and festivals for modern contexts.
• Movements emerged to reinstate festivals such as the Sabbath, Passover, and Feast of Tabernacles.

Key Features:

• These movements formed a "New Law Era," emphasizing the practical observance of Old Testament laws.
• Seen as a revival of the Law Era, focusing on adherence to Mosaic Law in contemporary worship.

Conclusion: The Cyclical Nature of Doctrine

Christian doctrine has continually evolved through the Era of the Law, Apostolic Era, Patristic Era, and Scholastic Era, with the recent emergence of the New Law Era bringing a renewed focus on Old Testament festivals.

Biblical Insight

• Ecclesiastes 3:15:

  "Whatever is has already been, and what will be has been before; and God will call the past to account."

This passage reflects the cyclical nature of God’s redemptive history. The essence of His teachings resurfaces throughout history.

Key Takeaways

• Understand the Core Teachings: It is vital to discern the true essence of the Bible’s teachings amidst historical and doctrinal changes.
• Focus on the Bible’s Original Message: As doctrines evolve, Christians must strive to align their faith with the unchanging truths of Scripture.
• Avoid Legalism: While the revival of Old Testament practices may appeal to some, the New Covenant emphasizes grace, love, and freedom in Christ.

By recognizing these historical shifts, believers can gain a deeper understanding of their faith and remain anchored in the timeless truths of the Bible.