In this episode of The Apostolic Classroom, Steven, Jeremias, and Andrew trace the development of early church councils—from the First Council of Nicaea in 325 to the Second Nicaea centuries later—and how they reshaped Christian doctrine and worship.
The hosts examine how Constantine’s political ambitions intertwined with theological debates, leading to the formation of the Nicene Creed, the elevation of Mary, and eventually the veneration of saints and images. Along the way, they explore the Arian controversy, the role of the Filioque clause in dividing East and West, and the philosophical language that introduced categories foreign to Scripture.
This wide-ranging discussion highlights the danger of departing from biblical authority in favor of tradition and politics—showing how the councils that began as efforts for unity ultimately redefined the nature of God, the identity of Christ, and the practice of Christian faith.