Scott Brown on Clement of Alexandria: The Allegorical Significance of Jesus Raising the Dead

In the writings of Clement of Alexandria, a profound theological exploration unfolds around the allegorical significance of Jesus raising the dead. Scott Brown's scholarly inquiry delves into Clement's interpretation, highlighting its implications for spiritual transformation and Christian doctrine.

The Protrepticus and the Call to Transformation

In Clement's Protrepticus, the motif of Jesus raising the dead serves as a metaphorical cornerstone. Quoting Ephesians, Clement underscores Christ's role in awakening humanity from spiritual ignorance and moral darkness. Through exhortations and warnings, Christ calls forth repentance and promises illumination: "Awake, thou that sleepest, and arise from the dead, and there shall shine upon thee Christ the Lord" (Eph 5:14).

The Paedagogus and Healing of Body and Soul

Expanding on this theme in the Paedagogus, Clement employs the resurrection of Lazarus as a powerful symbol of Christ's dual role as Instructor and Savior. Just as Christ commanded Lazarus to rise from the dead, Clement portrays Christ's teachings and gifts as instruments of healing for both body and soul. Through his precepts and forgiveness, Christ offers spiritual rejuvenation and liberation from sin.

Clement's Path to Spiritual Perfection

For Clement, the narrative of Jesus raising the dead signifies more than a historical event; it embodies the transformative journey towards spiritual perfection. This journey, as elucidated in Clement's works, begins with repentance and the moderation of passions—themes central to his Protrepticus and Paedagogus. Christ's teachings, admonitions, and eventual bestowal of spiritual gifts mark the stages of this path towards spiritual enlightenment.

Scott Brown's Insights

Scott Brown's analysis enriches our understanding of Clement's theological framework and his interpretation of biblical narratives. By contextualizing Clement's writings within the broader themes of repentance, moral discipline, and spiritual growth, Brown sheds light on the allegorical depth of Clement's exegesis.

Conclusion and Further Reading

Scott Brown's exploration of Clement of Alexandria's interpretation of Jesus raising the dead underscores the profound allegorical dimensions within early Christian theology. For those interested in delving deeper into this scholarly discourse, Scott Brown's full paper can be accessed through this link: Scott Brown's Paper on Academia.edu.


This blog post offers readers a glimpse into Scott Brown's scholarly investigation into Clement of Alexandria's theological perspectives, particularly focusing on the metaphorical significance of Jesus raising the dead. It invites further exploration into the rich interplay between biblical narratives and spiritual allegory in early Christian thought.

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