The writings of Origen, Vol. 2 (of 2)
The Writings of Origen, Vol. 2 (of 2) is a landmark volume in patristic scholarship, offering a rich selection of Origen's later theological, exegetical, and apologetic writings. This volume serves as a vital continuation of the first, deepening our understanding of Origen's complex intellectual legacy and his central place in the development of early Christian theology.

Origen of Alexandria (c. 184–c. 253 AD) was one of the earliest and most prolific Christian theologians, known for his systematic approach to theology, deep philosophical insight, and rigorous scriptural exegesis. His works influenced generations of Christian thinkers, both in the Eastern and Western traditions. Although some of his more speculative theological positions were later contested, Origen remains a towering figure in the history of Christian thought.

Contents
This second volume encompasses a wide range of Origen's works, divided into theological treatises, biblical commentaries, homilies, and apologetic writings:

1. Exhortation to Martyrdom
A deeply spiritual and pastoral work written during a time of persecution. Origen encourages steadfastness in the face of suffering, offering theological reflections on the redemptive power of martyrdom and the imitation of Christ's passion.

2. Commentary on the Gospel of John (Books I, II, and XXVIII)
These selections represent Origen's early and later reflections on the Fourth Gospel. He interprets the Johannine text through a deeply allegorical and theological lens, exploring themes of divine Logos, incarnation, and spiritual rebirth.

3. Commentary on the Gospel of Matthew (Books X–XVII)
This extensive commentary illustrates Origen's exegetical method, combining literal, moral, and allegorical interpretations. He addresses theological issues such as divine justice, the kingdom of heaven, and ethical discipleship.

4. Homilies on the Gospel of Luke
A series of pastoral homilies that offer both moral exhortation and theological insight. These sermons exemplify Origen's concern with the spiritual formation of his listeners and his mastery of allegorical preaching.

5. Selections from the Commentary on Romans
Though only fragments survive, these excerpts showcase Origen's complex theology of grace, free will, justification, and salvation history—issues that would later become central to Western theological debates.

6. Against Celsus
A major apologetic masterpiece, this eight-book refutation of the pagan philosopher Celsus defends Christianity against intellectual attacks. Origen addresses criticisms regarding the Incarnation, miracles, ethics, Scripture, and Christian cosmology. His careful use of classical rhetoric and deep scriptural knowledge reflect a sophisticated engagement with Greco-Roman philosophy and culture.

Theological and Historical Importance
Origen's writings in this volume reflect a mind grappling with the deepest questions of faith, scripture, and reason. He articulates a vision of Christian theology that is both speculative and pastoral, rooted in Scripture and deeply conversant with Hellenistic philosophy, especially Platonism and Stoicism.

Among his many contributions are:

Allegorical Interpretation of Scripture: Origen developed a multi-layered approach to biblical exegesis (literal, moral, and spiritual), which deeply influenced later patristic and medieval theology.

Christology and Soteriology: Origen's reflections on the preexistence of the Son, the Incarnation, and the universal scope of salvation continue to provoke scholarly debate.

Apologetics and Interfaith Engagement: Against Celsus remains a foundational text in the history of Christian apologetics, illustrating how early Christians defended their faith using the intellectual tools of their time.

Reception and Legacy
Although Origen was posthumously condemned for some theological positions at the Second Council of Constantinople (553 AD), his intellectual legacy remained potent. His methods and questions became foundational for figures such as Gregory of Nyssa, Athanasius, and Augustine (even when they disagreed with his conclusions).

Modern scholars continue to regard Origen as a formative figure in the fields of biblical interpretation, dogmatic theology, and philosophical theology. His writings in this volume have been the subject of countless academic studies, dissertations, and theological debates.

Scholarly Utility
The Writings of Origen, Vol. 2 is an essential resource for:

Scholars of early Christianity and patristics

Theologians exploring the development of Christian doctrine

Historians of philosophy and religion

Graduate students in divinity or religious studies

Clergy and lay readers interested in the spiritual depth of early Church thinkers

The volume remains indispensable for understanding the intellectual and spiritual ferment of the early Church, as it transitioned from a persecuted minority to an intellectually confident and philosophically engaged tradition.
1147286346
The writings of Origen, Vol. 2 (of 2)
The Writings of Origen, Vol. 2 (of 2) is a landmark volume in patristic scholarship, offering a rich selection of Origen's later theological, exegetical, and apologetic writings. This volume serves as a vital continuation of the first, deepening our understanding of Origen's complex intellectual legacy and his central place in the development of early Christian theology.

Origen of Alexandria (c. 184–c. 253 AD) was one of the earliest and most prolific Christian theologians, known for his systematic approach to theology, deep philosophical insight, and rigorous scriptural exegesis. His works influenced generations of Christian thinkers, both in the Eastern and Western traditions. Although some of his more speculative theological positions were later contested, Origen remains a towering figure in the history of Christian thought.

Contents
This second volume encompasses a wide range of Origen's works, divided into theological treatises, biblical commentaries, homilies, and apologetic writings:

1. Exhortation to Martyrdom
A deeply spiritual and pastoral work written during a time of persecution. Origen encourages steadfastness in the face of suffering, offering theological reflections on the redemptive power of martyrdom and the imitation of Christ's passion.

2. Commentary on the Gospel of John (Books I, II, and XXVIII)
These selections represent Origen's early and later reflections on the Fourth Gospel. He interprets the Johannine text through a deeply allegorical and theological lens, exploring themes of divine Logos, incarnation, and spiritual rebirth.

3. Commentary on the Gospel of Matthew (Books X–XVII)
This extensive commentary illustrates Origen's exegetical method, combining literal, moral, and allegorical interpretations. He addresses theological issues such as divine justice, the kingdom of heaven, and ethical discipleship.

4. Homilies on the Gospel of Luke
A series of pastoral homilies that offer both moral exhortation and theological insight. These sermons exemplify Origen's concern with the spiritual formation of his listeners and his mastery of allegorical preaching.

5. Selections from the Commentary on Romans
Though only fragments survive, these excerpts showcase Origen's complex theology of grace, free will, justification, and salvation history—issues that would later become central to Western theological debates.

6. Against Celsus
A major apologetic masterpiece, this eight-book refutation of the pagan philosopher Celsus defends Christianity against intellectual attacks. Origen addresses criticisms regarding the Incarnation, miracles, ethics, Scripture, and Christian cosmology. His careful use of classical rhetoric and deep scriptural knowledge reflect a sophisticated engagement with Greco-Roman philosophy and culture.

Theological and Historical Importance
Origen's writings in this volume reflect a mind grappling with the deepest questions of faith, scripture, and reason. He articulates a vision of Christian theology that is both speculative and pastoral, rooted in Scripture and deeply conversant with Hellenistic philosophy, especially Platonism and Stoicism.

Among his many contributions are:

Allegorical Interpretation of Scripture: Origen developed a multi-layered approach to biblical exegesis (literal, moral, and spiritual), which deeply influenced later patristic and medieval theology.

Christology and Soteriology: Origen's reflections on the preexistence of the Son, the Incarnation, and the universal scope of salvation continue to provoke scholarly debate.

Apologetics and Interfaith Engagement: Against Celsus remains a foundational text in the history of Christian apologetics, illustrating how early Christians defended their faith using the intellectual tools of their time.

Reception and Legacy
Although Origen was posthumously condemned for some theological positions at the Second Council of Constantinople (553 AD), his intellectual legacy remained potent. His methods and questions became foundational for figures such as Gregory of Nyssa, Athanasius, and Augustine (even when they disagreed with his conclusions).

Modern scholars continue to regard Origen as a formative figure in the fields of biblical interpretation, dogmatic theology, and philosophical theology. His writings in this volume have been the subject of countless academic studies, dissertations, and theological debates.

Scholarly Utility
The Writings of Origen, Vol. 2 is an essential resource for:

Scholars of early Christianity and patristics

Theologians exploring the development of Christian doctrine

Historians of philosophy and religion

Graduate students in divinity or religious studies

Clergy and lay readers interested in the spiritual depth of early Church thinkers

The volume remains indispensable for understanding the intellectual and spiritual ferment of the early Church, as it transitioned from a persecuted minority to an intellectually confident and philosophically engaged tradition.
4.99 In Stock
The writings of Origen, Vol. 2 (of 2)

The writings of Origen, Vol. 2 (of 2)

by Origen
The writings of Origen, Vol. 2 (of 2)

The writings of Origen, Vol. 2 (of 2)

by Origen

eBook

$4.99 

Available on Compatible NOOK devices, the free NOOK App and in My Digital Library.
WANT A NOOK?  Explore Now

Related collections and offers

LEND ME® See Details

Overview

The Writings of Origen, Vol. 2 (of 2) is a landmark volume in patristic scholarship, offering a rich selection of Origen's later theological, exegetical, and apologetic writings. This volume serves as a vital continuation of the first, deepening our understanding of Origen's complex intellectual legacy and his central place in the development of early Christian theology.

Origen of Alexandria (c. 184–c. 253 AD) was one of the earliest and most prolific Christian theologians, known for his systematic approach to theology, deep philosophical insight, and rigorous scriptural exegesis. His works influenced generations of Christian thinkers, both in the Eastern and Western traditions. Although some of his more speculative theological positions were later contested, Origen remains a towering figure in the history of Christian thought.

Contents
This second volume encompasses a wide range of Origen's works, divided into theological treatises, biblical commentaries, homilies, and apologetic writings:

1. Exhortation to Martyrdom
A deeply spiritual and pastoral work written during a time of persecution. Origen encourages steadfastness in the face of suffering, offering theological reflections on the redemptive power of martyrdom and the imitation of Christ's passion.

2. Commentary on the Gospel of John (Books I, II, and XXVIII)
These selections represent Origen's early and later reflections on the Fourth Gospel. He interprets the Johannine text through a deeply allegorical and theological lens, exploring themes of divine Logos, incarnation, and spiritual rebirth.

3. Commentary on the Gospel of Matthew (Books X–XVII)
This extensive commentary illustrates Origen's exegetical method, combining literal, moral, and allegorical interpretations. He addresses theological issues such as divine justice, the kingdom of heaven, and ethical discipleship.

4. Homilies on the Gospel of Luke
A series of pastoral homilies that offer both moral exhortation and theological insight. These sermons exemplify Origen's concern with the spiritual formation of his listeners and his mastery of allegorical preaching.

5. Selections from the Commentary on Romans
Though only fragments survive, these excerpts showcase Origen's complex theology of grace, free will, justification, and salvation history—issues that would later become central to Western theological debates.

6. Against Celsus
A major apologetic masterpiece, this eight-book refutation of the pagan philosopher Celsus defends Christianity against intellectual attacks. Origen addresses criticisms regarding the Incarnation, miracles, ethics, Scripture, and Christian cosmology. His careful use of classical rhetoric and deep scriptural knowledge reflect a sophisticated engagement with Greco-Roman philosophy and culture.

Theological and Historical Importance
Origen's writings in this volume reflect a mind grappling with the deepest questions of faith, scripture, and reason. He articulates a vision of Christian theology that is both speculative and pastoral, rooted in Scripture and deeply conversant with Hellenistic philosophy, especially Platonism and Stoicism.

Among his many contributions are:

Allegorical Interpretation of Scripture: Origen developed a multi-layered approach to biblical exegesis (literal, moral, and spiritual), which deeply influenced later patristic and medieval theology.

Christology and Soteriology: Origen's reflections on the preexistence of the Son, the Incarnation, and the universal scope of salvation continue to provoke scholarly debate.

Apologetics and Interfaith Engagement: Against Celsus remains a foundational text in the history of Christian apologetics, illustrating how early Christians defended their faith using the intellectual tools of their time.

Reception and Legacy
Although Origen was posthumously condemned for some theological positions at the Second Council of Constantinople (553 AD), his intellectual legacy remained potent. His methods and questions became foundational for figures such as Gregory of Nyssa, Athanasius, and Augustine (even when they disagreed with his conclusions).

Modern scholars continue to regard Origen as a formative figure in the fields of biblical interpretation, dogmatic theology, and philosophical theology. His writings in this volume have been the subject of countless academic studies, dissertations, and theological debates.

Scholarly Utility
The Writings of Origen, Vol. 2 is an essential resource for:

Scholars of early Christianity and patristics

Theologians exploring the development of Christian doctrine

Historians of philosophy and religion

Graduate students in divinity or religious studies

Clergy and lay readers interested in the spiritual depth of early Church thinkers

The volume remains indispensable for understanding the intellectual and spiritual ferment of the early Church, as it transitioned from a persecuted minority to an intellectually confident and philosophically engaged tradition.

Product Details

BN ID: 2940184691534
Publisher: Origen
Publication date: 04/15/2025
Sold by: Barnes & Noble
Format: eBook
File size: 862 KB

About the Author

Origen of Alexandria (c. 184 – c. 253 AD)
Origen of Alexandria was one of the most prolific and influential Christian theologians, exegetes, and philosophers of the early Church. A towering figure in the ante-Nicene period, Origen's work laid the intellectual groundwork for much of Eastern and Western Christian theology, particularly in the areas of biblical interpretation, systematic theology, and spiritual formation.

Early Life and Education
Born around 184 AD in Alexandria, Egypt—a leading center of learning in the Roman Empire—Origen was raised in a devout Christian family. His father, Leonides, ensured he received an exceptional classical education, training him in Greek literature, philosophy, and rhetoric. When Origen was still a young man, his father was martyred during the persecution under Emperor Septimius Severus, an event that profoundly shaped his theological and pastoral sensibility.

Origen began teaching at the Catechetical School of Alexandria at a remarkably young age, succeeding Clement of Alexandria. He quickly gained a reputation for both intellectual brilliance and personal asceticism.

Theological Contributions
Origen's body of work is vast, with estimates ranging from 2,000 to 6,000 treatises, though many are now lost or exist only in Latin translations or fragments. His writings span biblical commentaries, homilies, theological treatises, apologetic works, and philosophical dialogues.

Some of his most significant contributions include:

Biblical Exegesis: Origen pioneered the use of allegorical interpretation, arguing that Scripture operates on multiple levels—literal, moral, and spiritual (or anagogical). This approach influenced later Church Fathers like Augustine, Gregory of Nyssa, and Ambrose.

Systematic Theology: His foundational work, De Principiis (On First Principles), is widely considered the first systematic theology in Christian history. In it, Origen explores topics such as the nature of God, creation, the soul, free will, and eschatology.

Apologetics: In Contra Celsum (Against Celsus), Origen defends the Christian faith against the critiques of a learned pagan philosopher, showcasing his mastery of classical rhetoric and Greco-Roman philosophy.

Spiritual Theology: Origen emphasized spiritual transformation, arguing that the Christian journey involves a deep, mystical ascent to union with God through the Logos (Christ).
From the B&N Reads Blog

Customer Reviews