Synergy and Perfection in the Sacrament of Baptism after St. Mark Ascetic - Theological and existential implications in contemporary times Cover Image

Sinergie și desăvârșire în Taina Botezului după Sfântul Marcu Ascetul – implicații teologico-existențiale în contemporaneitate –
Synergy and Perfection in the Sacrament of Baptism after St. Mark Ascetic - Theological and existential implications in contemporary times

Author(s): Cristinel Ioja
Subject(s): Christian Theology and Religion, Theology and Religion
Published by: EDITURA ARHIEPISCOPIEI DUNĂRII DE JOS
Keywords: Sacrament of Baptism; Mark the Ascetic; synergy; perfection; idolatry; ecclesial consciousness;

Summary/Abstract: In this study, the author highlights several essential aspects of the theology of Baptism by St. Mark the Ascetic. In this respect, he attempts an analysis of the theological and ecclesial-ascetic implications of Baptism sacrament, emphasising particularly the mystical dimension man is integrated and the real presence of the grace of the Holy Spirit in the human heart, together with the real presence of Christ in the heart. The experience and discovery of God’s presence in human heart, through Baptism, is done by fulfilling the commandments and by an assiduous ascetic struggle. The author highlights the relationship between gift and duty, that means a dynamic process involving synergy and deification of man. Man’s will occupies the central place in this process; in this respect Mark the Ascetic combated the Messalians who believed that Baptism is not perfect, but perfection is achieved by human struggles and, after Baptism, God and the devil coexist in the human soul. Starting from St. Mark the Ascetic theology, this study calls into question the attitude of Christians regarding the Sacrament of Baptism, and the way they realise, receive and take it upon their life and manifestations.

  • Issue Year: X/2011
  • Issue No: 10
  • Page Range: 20-33
  • Page Count: 14
  • Language: Romanian