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c. 155 – 325 AD
Clement of Alexandria

Clement of Alexandria

c. 150 – 215 AD
Alexandria, Egypt

Overview

Head of the Catechetical School. He used Greek philosophy (Plato) to explain Christian doctrine to intellectuals.

Did You Know?

Wrote the hymn "Shepherd of Tender Youth," one of the oldest Christian hymns still in use.

Major Writings

Protrepticus (Exhortation to the Greeks)

An appeal to convert.

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Paedagogus (The Instructor)

A manual on Christian daily living.

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Stromata (Miscellanies)

A collection of thoughts on faith and philosophy.

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Who is the Rich Man That Shall Be Saved? (Quis Dives Salvetur)

His most famous sermon. One of the earliest Christian attempts to answer: 'Can a wealthy person go to heaven?' (His answer: Yes, if they detach their heart from their money).

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Historical Context

The Ante-Nicene Fathers

The "Apologists" and early theologians living under persecution before the Council of Nicaea.

7 Church Fathers in this era

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Part of The Ante-Nicene Fathers