At the Intersection of East and West

The Council of Nicaea - 1

Dec 6, 2008
Dive into the complex history of the Council of Nicaea and the challenge posed by Arianism. Discover how Deacon Michael traces the ancient roots of heresies that still echo today, alongside the political motives of Constantine. Unravel the distinctions within the Trinity and the practical implications for modern faith. Understand the significance of the Nicene Creed and its key phrases, which aim to clarify crucial theological concepts. This journey highlights the ongoing relevance of these early controversies in a contemporary context.
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ANECDOTE

Campfire Encounter With Modalism

  • Michael Hyatt describes encountering a 1970s Jesus movement group teaching modalism by a campfire at Lake Waco.
  • He felt unsettled and learned to identify ancient heresies resurfacing in modern forms.
INSIGHT

Politics Drove The Council, Bishops Defended Truth

  • Constantine convened the Council of Nicaea in 325 largely for political unity, not theology.
  • Bishops insisted truth matters more than temporary peace and pursued doctrinal clarity anyway.
INSIGHT

Few Bishops Could Attend Nicaea

  • About 1,800 bishops existed, but only 318 attended Nicaea due to travel and hardship.
  • Constantine allowed bishops to bring clergy and many lay attendants, creating roughly 2,000 participants.
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