A History of the Christian Church (Part 13) The Council of Constantinople (382 AD)

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Episodes Notes.

Introduction

• 4th Century Context: The Christian church was under significant theological and political turmoil, grappling with the nature of God, the influence of religious cults, and the intersection of imperial power and doctrine.
• Arianism: A belief that denied the full divinity of Christ, leading to significant controversy within the church.
• Political Intrigue: The council's decisions, especially the controversial third canon, contributed to the long-term discord between the Eastern and Western churches.

Background of the Council

• Convocation: The First Council of Constantinople was convened in 381 by Emperor Theodosius I in Constantinople.
• Objective: To address the heresy of Arianism and unify the Christian doctrine under Nicene Christianity.

The Nicene Creed

• Significance: The council produced the definitive Nicene Creed, which remains a central statement of Christian faith.

Canons Established by the Council

• First Canon: Condemned Arianism, Macedonianism, and Apollinarianism.
• Second Canon: Reinforced Nicene laws and set patriarchal boundaries.
• Third Canon: Elevated the Bishop of Constantinople's status, second only to the Bishop of Rome.
• Fourth Canon: Invalidated Maximus's consecration as Bishop of Constantinople.
• Fifth Canon: Likely from 382, passed judgment on a literary work attributed to Western bishops.
• Sixth Canon: Set limits on accusations against bishops.
• Seventh Canon: Detailed procedures for admitting heretics back into the church.

Condemnation of Heresies

• Arianism: The council reinforced the Nicene Creed and condemned Arianism, contributing to its decline.
• Macedonianism: The creed implied the deity of the Holy Spirit, though Macedonian bishops walked out.
• Apollinarianism: Formally condemned the belief that Jesus lacked a human soul.

Long-term Impact

• Ecumenical Status: The council is considered the second great ecumenical council, with its creed still widely used in both Eastern and Western churches.
• Filioque Controversy: The addition of "and the Son" to the creed in the West contributed to the East-West Schism.
• Hierarchical Struggles: The elevation of Constantinople's status led to conflicts with Alexandria and Rome, foreshadowing future schisms.

Summary and Legacy

• Doctrinal Clarification: The council reinforced orthodox Trinitarian doctrine, condemned major heresies, and clarified the nature of the Holy Spirit.
• Political Repercussions: The elevation of Constantinople challenged Rome's primacy and contributed to ongoing ecclesiastical power struggles.
• Lasting Influence: The council's decisions and the Nicene Creed continue to shape Christian theology and ecclesiastical structure.

Reflection

• Mystery of Christ: The council's aim was to protect the doctrine of the incarnation from heretical attacks, not to eliminate its mystery.
• Historical Importance: The creeds and canons should be viewed as vital historical documents that defended the early church against theological distortions.

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