Early Departures: Justin Martyr, Tertullian, and the Shift from Scripture to Philosophy

In this episode of The Apostolic Classroom, Steven, Jeremias, and Andrew examine two of the most influential early church writers—Justin Martyr and Tertullian—and how their ideas marked a departure from the apostolic teaching of the Godhead.
Beginning with Justin Martyr’s synthesis of Greek philosophy and Christian faith, the hosts trace how concepts like the “unmoved mover” and hierarchical divinity shaped his understanding of God, Christ, and the Spirit. They then turn to Tertullian, whose writings introduced key philosophical terms—including “Trinity”—and reveal how Stoic materialism and Roman logic influenced his theology.
The discussion contrasts their ideas with the clear scriptural revelation of one God manifest in Christ, exploring how early philosophical compromise laid groundwork for later doctrinal shifts. A critical study in understanding where theology began to drift from its biblical foundation—and why returning to Scripture remains essential.