The Council of Constantinople (AD 553): The meeting
Prof. Douglas Kuiper examines the Fifth Ecumenical Council of Constantinople (AD 553), focusing on the theological controversies that prompted its convocation, particularly the disputes between Monophysites and those defending Christ's two natures. The article discusses the council's delegates, the role of Emperor Justinian, and the notable absence of Pope Vigilius, providing historical context for understanding early church ecumenical decision-making and Christological doctrine.
The last article set forth the context for the meeting of the Fifth Ecumenical Council. The Monophysites were teaching that if Jesus was one person, He necessarily must have one nature (mono = one; phusis = nature). Other theologians took the opposite position: because Jesus has two natures, He is two persons. These latter set forth their position in "The Three Chapters," or "Heads." Without question, the Three Chapters contained error, and Emperor Justinian condemned it. But why did he condemn...
Full article available on sb.rfpa.org
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