The Argument over Reincarnation in Early Christianity
The Argument over Reincarnation in Early Christianity
tải về 287.46 Kb. Chế độ xem pdf
|
| The Argument over Reincarnation in Early Christianity
8 Plato teaches the punishment of the wicked for only a limited period of time and in bodies other than their own, while Christians teach the eternal punishment of the wicked in the same bodies as they now possess. 21 Justin says a lot in this single short sentence. He refutes the idea of reincarnation and at the same time solidifies his belief in corporeal resurrection. At this point in the dialogue Justin explains his belief that Christians are judged and punished once, and not several times through several lives. He also explains that the wicked who are being punished are suffering for their mistakes in the same bodies that they have always had. It is easy to see that Justin Martyr was an early Christian theologian that did not believe in reincarnation, and when his beliefs regarding Christ’s mission are considered it can be understood why he did not hold this belief. Justin explains to Trypho later in their dialogue that a Christian seeking repentance for sins in this life can only do so “by faith through the blood of Christ, and through his death, who died for this very reason.” 22 It is in this teaching that we can see the main difference between those early Christians who believed in reincarnation and those who did not: their beliefs in Jesus Christ and what role his earthly ministry has on all Christians. Unlike some of the Christian theologians mentioned earlier, Justin believed and taught that Christ suffered and died so that men could repent for their sins and avoid eternal punishment. This difference highlights the reasoning behind the Christian Church’s decision to reject reincarnation as a doctrine, because the idea of reincarnation leaves to room for Jesus Christ’s redemptive powers. 21 Justin Martyr, Dialogue with Trypho. Translated by Thomas B. Falls. (Washington D.C., The Catholic University of America Press) 152-3. 22 Justin Martyr. Dialogue with Trypho. 14-15. |