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The Arian Controversy. Its Origins, Attributes, and Influence. Arius. Presbyter in Alexandria Considered the most influential heresiarch in the History of the Church. Arianism. Core beliefs: The Father and the Son were NOT co-eternal “there was a time when He was not”
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The Arian Controversy Its Origins, Attributes, and Influence
Arius • Presbyter in Alexandria • Considered the most influential heresiarch in the History of the Church
Arianism • Core beliefs: • The Father and the Son were NOT co-eternal • “there was a time when He was not” • The Son was divine, but was created by the Father • thus, the Son is inferior to the Father • Created ex nihilo (from nothing), so not the same substance as Father • Arians would say the Son was “made, not begotten”
Problems? • Salvation • Robs the redemptive act of Jesus dying on the cross of it efficacy • Efficacy – the ability to produce a desired or intended result • Compromises the unity of the Trinity • Jesus could not fully know God, so how can we be sure His teachings are correct? • Incarnation is no longer valid • The Logos must have a free-will and be capable of sin
The Opposition – St. Athanasius • Deacon in Alexandria during the Arian Controversy • Wrote Orations against Arians • Played a pivotal role in condemning Arius at the Council of Nicaea
First Council of Nicaea (AD 325) • The First Ecumenical Council of the Church • Ecumenical Council – an assembly of bishops from throughout the entire world • Called by Emperor Constantine • He was concerned about the peace of the Empire