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Faithfulness

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Abstract

Faithfulness is a notion as comprehensive as it is layered. Indeed, the term refers to an attribute ascribed to God and to a virtue set as a standard for humanity in Scripture and early Christian tradition, and which is also described as an experienced line of conduct in the relationship with humans and God. Etymologically related to “faith” (Lat. fides; Gk pistis), “faithfulness” as a divine and human attribute expresses unconditional and continuing loyalty to a person, cause, or community. This loyalty remains regardless of circumstances or developments. Faithfulness is closely related to trust because it is nourished by it, but faithfulness also perpetuates trust.

In this article we describe three layers in the meaning of faithfulness:

1. God’s faithfulness to his people;
2. Christ’s faithfulness;
3. people’s faithfulness to each other and to God.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationBrill Encyclopedia of Early Christianity
EditorsD Hunter, P van Geest, B.J. Lietaert Peerbolte
Place of PublicationLeiden
PublisherBrill
Pages308 - 313
Volume3
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2024

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