We discuss Monophysitism, the ongoing struggles between Antioch and Alexandria, the final “creed” of the Patristic era, and the ongoing schisms in the East.

In today's class we discuss the heresy of Nestorianism, its connection to Pelagianism, the Marian title "Theotokos," and how the theological distinction between justification and sanctification remains important today.

For further reading, see chapters 3 and 4 of TheCruelty of Heresy by C. FitzSimons Allison.

As a preface to the 3rd Council, we discuss the British monk Pelagius, and why his teaching was condemned by St. Augustine.

Texts: Acts 2:1ff, John 14:15ff, 1 Corinthians 12:4ff,Luke 11:9ff

We conclude our discussion of the First Council of Constantinople, 381AD, the second ecumenical council. We continue to discuss the theological controversies of semi-Arianism and Appolinarianism, as well as some of the issues covered in the canons.

See the Conqueror Mounts in Triumph

1. See the Conqu’ror mounts in triumph; see the King in royal state,
Riding on the clouds, his chariot, to his heav’nly palace gate.
Hark the choirs of angel voices joyful alleluias sing,
And the portals high are lifted to receive their heav’nly King.

2. He who on the cross did suffer, He who from the grave arose,
He has vanquished sin and Satan; He by death has spoiled his foes.
While he lifts his hands in blessing, He is parted from his friends,
While their eager eyes behold him, He upon the clouds ascends.

3. Now our heav’nly Aaron enters, with his blood, within the veil;
Joshua is come to Canaan, and the kings before him quail;
Now he plants the tribes of Israel in their promised resting place;
Now our great Elijah offers double portion of his grace.

4. Thou hast raised our human nature on the clouds to God’s right hand;
There we sit in heav’nly places, there with thee in glory stand.
Jesus reigns, adored by angels; Man with God is on the throne;
Mighty Lord, in thine ascension, we by faith behold our own.

We begin a discussion of Constatninople 1, the 2nd Ecumenical Council (381AD). We cover the historical background and some of the theological implications of the main controversy (Semi-Arianism). Next week we will discuss the canons and creed from the Council.

Texts: John 14 & James 1

Mr. AJ Ellis concludes his discussion on Christology. We look at Nestorianism, Docetism, and Ebionism. The Anglican Compass series, "We Believe: Reflections on the Nicene Creed" can be found here.