Council of Nicaea: Nature of Christ (325 CE)
by Anonymous
The first ecumenical council debated whether Christ was of the same substance as God (homoousios) or a created being (Arius's position). The decision shaped Christian theology for all subsequent centuries.
Homoousios (Same Substance as God)
325 CE
year
Christ is fully divine, co-eternal with the Father
theological position
Athanasius of Alexandria
key advocate
Adopted — Nicene Creed, orthodox Christianity
outcome
Arianism (Christ is Created)
325 CE
year
Christ is highest created being, not co-eternal
theological position
Arius of Alexandria
key advocate
Condemned as heresy — persisted among Germanic tribes
outcome
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