Articles of Faith

Name: Articles of Faith
Author: Samuel Taylor Coleridge

The work presents a series of reflections on faith, sectarianism, and the nature of Christianity. It begins with a proposal for a set of articles of faith that would allow for a broad yet discerning inclusion of believers, while explicitly excluding Unitarians and conditionally excluding Roman Catholics based on individual conscience. The author critiques the Roman Catholic Church for its blend of faith and practices that can lead to idolatry, emphasizing the need for a clear distinction between essential beliefs and potentially corrupting traditions. The discussion extends to modern Quakerism, which the author views as a departure from its original principles, likening it to a hollow tree that appears robust but lacks substance. The critique highlights a perceived decline in the devotional spirit of the church post-Reformation, suggesting that contemporary prayers are overly cautious and lack the heartfelt expression found in earlier Christian writings. The author reflects on the historical development of heresies and errors within Christianity, arguing that many issues began in the Apostolic age rather than later, as some Protestants claim. This leads to a broader commentary on the state of English identity, suggesting that the nation has become fragmented due to sectarian divisions and political influences. The work concludes with a lament over the loss of Origen's writings, praising him as a significant intellectual figure among the early Church Fathers, contrasting him with Jerome, whom the author considers inferior. Overall, the text is a critical examination of faith, tradition, and the evolution of Christian thought, advocating for a return to a more authentic and heartfelt expression of belief.

By Samuel Taylor Coleridge · First published 1825 · Genre: Philosophical Theology, Religious Critique, Historical Theology · 1,076 words

First lines

SPIRIT. -- SECTARIANISM. -- ORIGEN.

What this Textopian page supports

Articles of Faith is listed on Textopian as an essay by Samuel Taylor Coleridge, dated 1825 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Essay
Author: Samuel Taylor Coleridge
Date: 1825 CE
Language: English
Genres: Philosophical Theology, Religious Critique, Historical Theology, Essays, Literary Criticism
Length: 1,076 words
Structure: 1 section, 7 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Difficult (10th-12th Grade)

Good citation fit

Work identity for Articles of Faith by Samuel Taylor Coleridge
Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
Readability and classroom-planning context
Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph

Discussion starters

What should a reader notice first when entering Articles of Faith?
How does this essay by Samuel Taylor Coleridge fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
Where does Philosophical Theology first become important in the reading?

Similar titles

Genres

Philosophical Theology — The text explores deep theological concepts and the nature of faith, making it central to philosophical discussions about religion.
Religious Critique — Coleridge critiques various religious sects and practices, particularly focusing on the implications of belief systems.
Historical Theology — The work references historical figures and movements within Christianity, analyzing their impact on contemporary faith.
Essays — The format and style resemble an essay, presenting arguments and reflections on faith and religious practices.