Theology in Particular Episode 207: The Council of Nicaea, 1700 Years Later With James Dolezal
Jul 21, 2025
James Dolezal, a visiting professor of theology and expert on historical theology, dives into the significance of the Council of Nicaea as it celebrates its 1,700th anniversary. He discusses the political motives of Constantine and the theological debates surrounding Arius's controversial teachings. Delving into the complexities of early church thought, Dolezal explains the tension between co-eternity and subordination in Christ’s nature. He emphasizes the Nicene Creed's enduring importance in shaping Christian identity and doctrine, highlighting its relevance today.
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Nicaea As An Imperial Resolution
- The Council of Nicaea was convened by Emperor Constantine to resolve the disruptive Arian controversy across the empire.
- It functioned as an imperial, ecumenical council intended to restore both church and civil peace.
Arianism's Intellectual Roots
- Arius's theology grew from earlier trends that subordinated the Son to the Father, influenced by Greco-Roman thought.
- Neoplatonic mediatory ideas made it plausible to treat the Son as a lesser, demiurgic figure rather than fully divine.
Begetting Creates Theological Tension
- Early church writers like Justin Martyr struggled to express how the Son is both distinct and truly divine.
- Locating personhood in generation (begetting) created confusion between natural and creative generation, enabling subordinationist readings.
