Grace Saves All: Christianity and Universal Salvation Ep. 168 Professor Ilaria Ramelli - Did Apokatastasis stem from another religion, or is it essentially Christological?
Nov 15, 2024
Ilaria Ramelli, a leading expert in early church history and Christian universalism, delves into the concept of apocatastasis and its intricate ties to Zoroastrianism. She discusses how universal restoration is uniquely framed within Christianity. The conversation navigates themes of eschatology, highlighting judgments illustrated through Zoroastrian texts and parallels in early Christian beliefs. Ramelli also examines Christ's virtues and the importance of free will in salvation, presenting healing miracles as symbols of spiritual restoration for all creation.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Origins of Apocatastasis
- Christian Apocatastasis, the doctrine of universal restoration, was a prominent idea in early Christian thought.
- Its potential connection to Zoroastrianism's Frashokereti is explored, but chronological evidence suggests Apocatastasis is distinctly Christian.
Zoroastrian Eschatology and Christian Influence
- Zoroastrian texts like the Bundahishn hint at a purification of the wicked.
- However, clearer articulations appear in later texts, suggesting potential influence from already-established Christian Apocatastasis.
Spiritual Significance of Miracles
- Christ's physical miracles symbolize spiritual healing from sin.
- Origen emphasizes spiritual miracles as more significant than physical ones.