MARSCAST 179. The Councils of Ephesus and Chalcedon
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May 25, 2023 Dr. Alan Strange, a scholar in early Christianity, illuminates the foundational Councils of Ephesus and Chalcedon. He discusses the intense theological debates that emerged from these gatherings, focusing on the conflict between Nestorius and Cyril of Alexandria over Christ's dual nature. The podcast reveals how these councils significantly shaped Christological doctrines and the legacy of thinkers like Augustine of Hippo. Strange's insights provide a captivating glimpse into the tumultuous history that influenced the Christian faith.
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Council of Ephesus
- The Council of Ephesus, the Third Ecumenical Council, addressed Christological controversies in 431 AD.
- It built upon the previous councils of Nicaea (325 AD) and Constantinople (381 AD).
Cyril of Alexandria vs. Nestorius
- Cyril of Alexandria stressed the unity of Christ's person (hypostatic union), opposing Nestorius' emphasis on the distinctness of the two natures.
- Alexandria had a more spiritualized approach to Christology compared to Antioch’s literal approach.
Theotokos vs. Christotokos
- Nestorius rejected the term "Theotokos" (God-bearer) for Mary, preferring "Christotokos" (Christ-bearer).
- This stemmed from different views on the union of Christ's divine and human natures, with some interpreting Christotokos to imply Adoptionism.
