Survey of the Theology of History from the Patristic Period to Early Scholasticism

The paper discusses the Theology of history, which, while not explicitly mentioned in Scripture, influences key scriptural events and liturgy. It highlights how the theological interpretation of significant events transcends human reason. In the Old Testament, the Deuteronomist explains God’s word in history, while in the New Testament, the Exodus tradition is alluded to rather than directly cited, with Christ viewed as the culmination of time. Early Christian literature and Patristic thought emphasize two key ideas: first, Christ as the telos of history, meaning Christ as the ultimate goal of historical progression, defended primarily by St. Augustine. Second, Christ is viewed as the axis of the ages, serving as the central point in the chronology of salvation history. This perspective faced challenges from Scholastic thinkers like Joachim of Fiore. The debate included discussions on historical progress and the uniqueness of historical centers. The Fathers of the Church viewed the Creation narrative as prophetic of humanity’s history. Joachim proposed a three-part history aligned with the Holy Trinity, suggesting a new monasticism beyond the New Testament. In contrast, Bonaventure maintained a parallel structure of history, emphasizing Christ as the central figure, who prefigures the Old Testament events and progresses towards the eschaton. This view resolved debates about the center and end of history in Christ, presenting history as a journey of progress culminating in God-given Sabbath-Rest. He is the beginning of the end and brought definitive salvation. In him, the end has already started.