A Conflict on Authority in the Early African Church

Exploring the ancient North African Church, this study delves into its rapid growth and the schisms that led to its decline. It contrasts the early Church's issues of authority and moral conduct with the contemporary Church in Sub-Saharan Africa, highlighting the ongoing relevance of these debates. The Donatists' belief in the necessity of moral integrity among church leaders is examined alongside Augustine's perspectives on holiness and authority, revealing enduring conflicts within Christianity today.