Theophilus of Antioch

About Theophilus of Antioch

Theophilus was the sixth Patriarch of Antioch and an apologist who converted from paganism to Christianity. His work "To Autolycus" (three books written to a pagan friend) defends Christianity, critiques pagan mythology and philosophy, and expounds Christian theology. Theophilus was the first Christian writer to use the term "Trinity" (Trias) for God. He emphasized Creation from nothing, critiqued immoral pagan gods, and argued for Christian moral superiority. His work shows Christianity engaging intellectually with Greek culture while maintaining its distinct identity. Though less famous than other apologists, his contribution to Trinitarian terminology is significant.