Eccl. [f. proper name Tertullian, ad. L. Tertulliān-us.] The doctrine of Tertullian, a famous Christian writer of the late 2nd and early 3rd c., a modification of Montanism, or the rigid ascetic discipline connected with this. So Tertullianist, one of a sect who followed this doctrine and discipline.
1702. C. Mather, Magn. Chr., III. I. i. § 14. 19/1. He [Mr. Cotton] practically appeared in opposition to Tertullianism, by proceeding unto a Second Marriage.
1710. Brit. Apollo, II. No. 84. 2/1. He … gave name to a Sect call’d Tertullianists about the Year 245.
1831–3. E. Burton, Eccl. Hist., xxii. (1845), 463. A sect of Tertullianists … continued at Carthage till the end of the fourth century.
1897. Ellen Battelle Dietrick, Women in the Early Christian Ministry, 75. The old spirit of Tertullianism, however, still had sufficient animation to leaven the fresh batch of physicians who had set up the new crusade of healing, though, during his life-time, Wesley succeeded in holding it in abeyance, insomuch that he was encouraged to write to Sarah Mallet (a very popular woman in the ministry): ‘It gives me pleasure to hear that prejudice dies away and our preachers behave in a friendly manner.’
