MARSCAST 148. The Arian Controversy
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Sep 22, 2022 Dr. Alan Strange, a Professor of Apologetics and Church History at Mid-America Reformed Seminary, dives into the heated conflict between Arius and Athanasius during the Council of Nicaea. He discusses Arius's controversial views on Christ's nature and the theological implications of his stance against modalism. The conversation highlights Athanasius's strong defense of the co-essentiality of the Father and Son, and the aftermath of Nicaea in shaping orthodox theology amidst ongoing confusion about the Trinity. A fascinating exploration of early church disputes!
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Arius: The Heretic Priest
- Arius, a Libyan priest, was known for his asceticism and compelling preaching.
- Despite this, he championed subordinationist teachings about Christ, claiming Jesus was created, not eternal.
Arius's Christology
- Arius opposed the modalist view that God merely wears different masks as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
- He believed Jesus was a distinct person, albeit subordinate to the Father.
Nicaea and Semi-Arianism
- The Council of Nicaea (325 AD) affirmed Christ's co-equality with the Father, but the Arian controversy persisted.
- Semi-Arians, believing in 'like substance,' posed a significant challenge to orthodox Christianity.