The Thomistic Institute
Nicene Existential Theology: Then and Now | Fr. Khaled Anatolios
Mar 25, 2025
Fr. Khaled Anatolios, a leading theologian at Notre Dame, delves into the profound implications of the Nicene Council's doctrine of creation from nothing. He examines the fierce debates of the Nicene controversy, revealing how foundational the Nicene Creed remains for Christian thought. Anatolios articulates Athanasius' insights, exploring the tension between being and nothingness, and their relevance for modern existential dilemmas. His reflections urge listeners to contemplate the transformative nature of Christ's incarnation and the eternal quest for meaning.
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Quick takeaways
- Fr. Khaled Anatolios discusses how the Nicene doctrine of creation from nothing establishes a pivotal distinction between the eternal God and created beings.
- Athanasius's 'On the Incarnation' emphasizes the dialectic of emptiness and fullness in human existence, highlighting the transformative relationship with God through Christ.
Deep dives
The Nicene Debate and Creation From Nothing
The Nicene debates centered around differing viewpoints regarding the divinity and eternal nature of Christ, leading to significant theological implications. A key point was the doctrine of creation from nothing, which established a distinction between the uncaused, eternal God and that which is created. This distinction complicated the acknowledgment of Jesus as both Lord and a created being, leading some, like Arius, to conclude that Christ was not eternal but rather created out of nothing. The complexity of these theological issues highlights the ongoing relevance of the Nicene debates for understanding Christian identity and existence.
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