Novatian was a Christian theologian and antipope in the 3rd century, known for his strict views on church discipline. He emerged during a time of crisis in the early Christian church, particularly regarding the treatment of those who had lapsed in their faith during persecution. Novatian argued that these individuals should not be readmitted to the church, which led to a significant schism. His teachings emphasized the importance of purity within the church, contrasting with the more lenient approach of Pope Cornelius, who sought to reconcile lapsed Christians. Novatian's followers formed a separate sect known as the Novatianists, which persisted for several centuries.