The Arian ControversyIts Origins, Attributes, and Influence

AriusPresbyter in Alexandria

Considered the most influential heresiarch in the History of the Church

ArianismCore beliefs:The Father and the Son were NOT co-eternal “there was a time when He was not”

The Son was divine, but was created by the Father thus, the Son is inferior to the FatherCreated ex nihilo (from nothing), so not the same

substance as Father Arians would say the Son was “made, not begotten”

Problems?Salvation

Robs the redemptive act of Jesus dying on the cross of it efficacyEfficacy – the ability to produce a desired or intended result

Compromises the unity of the TrinityJesus could not fully know God, so how can we be sure His teachings are correct?

Incarnation is no longer validThe Logos must have a free-will and be capable of sin

The Opposition – St. Athanasius

Deacon in Alexandria during the Arian ControversyWrote Orations against Arians

Played a pivotal role in condemning Arius at the Council of Nicaea

First Council of Nicaea (AD 325) The First Ecumenical Council of the Church

Ecumenical Council – an assembly of bishops from throughout the entire world

Called by Emperor Constantine He was concerned about the peace of the Empire