Hippolytus

Hippolytus of Rome (c. 170–235 AD) was one of the most important early Christian theologians. His writings include commentaries on Scripture and theological treatises on the nature of Christ and human deification.

Hippolytus was a disciple of Irenaeus and became a leading theologian in Rome. His Refutation of All Heresies is a major source for understanding early Christian debates. He taught that God could have made humans gods from the beginning, but instead offered them the opportunity to become gods through obedience and faithfulness.

Though he initially opposed Pope Callixtus and was considered an antipope, Hippolytus was later reconciled with the Church and died as a martyr, exiled to Sardinia during the persecution of Maximinus Thrax.