How did the Council of Chalcedon define Christology?

Master the Ecumenical Councils Exam. Enhance your study with flashcards, engaging multiple-choice questions, and in-depth explanations. Prepare effectively for your test!

The Council of Chalcedon, held in 451 AD, was pivotal in shaping Christological doctrine, and it is widely recognized for its emphasis on the dual nature of Christ. The Council clarified that Jesus Christ exists as one person in two distinct natures: fully divine and fully human, without confusion or separation. This definition was articulated in the Chalcedonian Definition, which affirmed that Christ is both truly God and truly man, maintaining the integrity of both natures.

This dual nature is crucial for understanding the Christian faith, as it underscores the belief that Jesus, being fully divine, has the authority of God, while also being fully human allows Him to empathize with and redeem humanity. This doctrinal stance was essential in countering various heresies that either emphasized one nature to the exclusion of the other or denied Christ's humanity altogether.

The other options do not align with the primary focus of the Council of Chalcedon's decrees. The humanity of Christ was affirmed, not rejected; the doctrine of the Trinity, while foundational to Christian theology, was established prior to Chalcedon; and the concept of the Immaculate Conception pertains to Mary and was discussed much later in church history. Thus, the focus on the dual nature of

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy