Montanus (/mɒnˈteɪnəs/; Greek: Μοντανός) as the second century founder of Montanism and a self proclaimed prophet. Montanus emphasized the work of the Holy Spirit, in a manner which set him apart from the Great Church.[1][2]
Only very little is known about the life of Montanus.[3] Montanus used to be a pagan priest, but later converted into Christianity.[1] Montanus began his prophesying in a village called Ardabau, located in Phrygia. The date of when Montanus started prophesying is somewhere around 157–172; however, the Church Fathers gave differing dates on the start of Montanism.[4] During his life Montanus was assisted by two women, Prisca and Maximilla, who also claimed to have prophecies.[1][2]
The teachings of Montanism include:[1]
The influence of Montanus and Marcion helped to spur the early church to begin the process of developing the New Testament canon.[7] Montanus was heavily attacked by other early church theologians and seen as a heretic.[6] However, Tertullian adopted Montanism.[3]