Tertullian’s On Patience

Tertullian, the founder of Latin Christianity and a man of great intellect, was born in Carthage to a proconsular centurion sometime around A.D. 145. He was likely educated in Rome as an expert in law and joined the Church around 185, becoming a presbyter in 190. His writings profoundly influenced Augustine and Cyprian who, in turn, provided inspiration to the Reformers in Europe and in the Anglican Church. 

In his later years Tertullian embraced Montanism, a movement, labeled a heresy by the Church, which claimed to have further revelation from the Holy Spirit, held to a strict moral code, and elevated female prophets. Tertullian perhaps embraced this because he was discontent with the orthodox church of his day and found the uncompromising morality of Montanism appealing. Despite this, he is recognized as the founder of Latin Christianity and an incredibly influential Christian thought leader and writer.

In yet another short treatise, Tertullian expounds the virtue of patience. Here, he demonstrates this important virtue through the entirety of God’s relationship with humanity, beginning with Genesis and ending in his own time. Compared to some of his other works this one is relatively simple, focusing primarily on exhorting believers to walk in patience. This remains very relevant for us today, as it reminds us that Christianity is not simply a set of propositions or political opinions but encompasses the character of our walk as well.

And now, please enjoy this rendition of Tertullian’s On Patience.

If you would like to read more of the writings of the Early Christian Fathers, please visit ccel.org to view the full collection.