The Council of Ephesus (AD 431): The meeting
This journal article by Douglas Kuiper examines the Council of Ephesus (AD 431) and its condemnation of Nestorianism, a heretical view denying the unified person of Christ. While the article focuses on the historical and theological importance of the council's orthodox decision regarding Christ's nature, it also critically documents the messy procedural conflicts and uncharitable conduct that marred the proceedings—offering valuable perspective on how the church has defended core doctrines despite human failings.
We saw that the error of Nestorianism made necessary the calling of the Council of Ephesus (cf. July 2021, SB, p. 420). Nestorius, the patriarch of Constantinople, taught that Christ had two natures because He had two persons, which two persons were joined in His incarnation. Cyril, the Bishop of Alexandria, opposed Nestorius, and Emperor Theodosius II deposed him. But division regarding the matter made the emperor realize the need for an ecumenical council to settle it. A messy meeting The...
Full article available on sb.rfpa.org