Dogma is a set of principles that are given by authority as undeniably true. Ralph Waldo Emerson uses it to refer to historical traditions and rules within the Unitarian Church. When used in the speech, dogma carries the connotation of rules that are old and no longer useful. He explains that the dogmas of the Church are like the temple ruins of ancient religions, with no effect on modern society. He also compares the dogmas of ancient Rome to the laws of the Church, both of which are no longer relevant. In both instances, Emerson uses the term pejoratively to refer to the Ineffectiveness of Modern Teachings and then compares the dogma to what can bring virtue to the Church: the soul.

Formality in Christianity at the time of Emerson’s speech refers to obeying Christian rituals and observances without thinking about their meaning. Emerson sees formality as wrong because it emphasizes following rules for spiritual good instead of trusting in inherent virtue.

Emerson refers to historical Christianity in his section of grievances. While he is referring to the Unitarian denomination as the most proximate example, he is also referring to the state of Christianity inherited by him and his contemporaries.