Synopsis: Novatian of Rome and the Culmination of Pre-Nicene Orthodoxy is an overview of the development of Christology and Trinitarian doctrine, which reached a plateau with Novatian, the third-century priest of Rome. Here James Papandrea offers an enlightening and thorough treatment of the thought, historical context, and theological influences of Novatian. Included are an assessment of the alternative Christologies of the pre-Nicene period, a survey of Novatian’s legacy, and concluding comments on the relevance of his theology and ecclesiology for the contemporary church. Endorsements: Jim Papandrea has rectified the long-standing neglect of Novatian, a sophisticated thinker a century ahead of his time. Dr. Papandrea insightfully corrects the simplistic, age-old equation of subordination of power with inferiority of substance. Students of early Christian thought will appreciate Papandrea’s survey of a trajectory that begins in the second century and culminates in Nicea and Chalcedon. -A. Andrew Das Elmhurst College Bringing to life Novatian of Rome–a figure whose long-lasting effects on orthodox theology have some times been overshadowed by his more famous contemporaries-in a coherent and excellently researched book, James Papandrea offers rich and valuable insights into the development of Trinitarian and christological thought in the Latin West during the crucial pre-Nicene period. This book is a much needed companion to any treatment of Christology and Trinity and will be used by both seminarians and historians alike. -George Kalantzis The Wheaton Center for Early Christian Studies In Novatian of Rome and the Culmination of Pre-Nicene Orthodoxy Papandrea provides a concise overview of the complex aspects of second- and third-century Christology and how these various streams of thought flowed together in the thought of Novatian, an oft-overlooked but fascinating theologian whose life experiences illustrate his sincere commitment to the spirituality and theology of the Church. This is an excellent resource for anyone considering the development of Christian doctrine in this formative period.
-Peter Steiger Chaminade University of Honolulu Author Biography: James L. Papandrea is Assistant Professor of Church History at Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary in Evanston, IL. He is the author of The Wedding of the Lamb: A Historical Approach to the Book of Revelation (Pickwick 2011), Spiritual Blueprint: How We Live, Work, Love, Play, and Pray (2010), and The Trinitarian Theology of Novatian of Rome (2008).