Tertullian’s On Repentance

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.

This text provides insight into Tertullian’s views on repentance. Through his other writings Tertullian has consistently valued moral behavior and attempting to live perfectly. His views are very similar to that of the Shepherd of Hermas, largely interpreting Jesus’ command to “Be holy as your heavenly father as holy” in a literal sense. Among other things, Tertullian addresses questions such as who can achieve repentance, when it is proper to baptize someone who has converted, and what to do if one sins after baptism.

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

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