A History of the Christian Church - (Part 11) Athanasius - Contending For the Deity of Christ (AD c293-376 )

The History of the Christian Church - 2000 Years of Christian Thought.

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Episodes Notes.
Welcome to "Athanasius - Contending For the Deity of Christ"

Biography:

Join us on a journey through the life and thinking of one of Christianity's most formidable figures, Athanasius. Born in the city of Alexandria, Athanasius emerged as a central figure in the theological battles of the early church. We look into his upbringing, his education, and his unwavering commitment to defending the deity of Christ amidst the turbulent waters of Arianism.

From his early years as a precocious youth to his tenure as the Bishop of Alexandria, Athanasius's life was marked by intellectual rigor and unyielding conviction. Explore the cultural and political landscape of Alexandria, the epicenter of trade and intellectual inquiry, where Athanasius honed his theological acumen amidst the diverse tapestry of Graeco-Roman society.

Follow Athanasius's tireless efforts in contending against Arianism, a heresy that threatened to undermine the very foundations of Christian faith. Journey with him through periods of exile, where his steadfastness in the face of opposition became legendary.

His Writings and Works:

Discover Athanasius's prolific literary legacy, from his seminal works against Arianism to his influential treatises on the incarnation of the Word. Explore his Easter letters, which not only commemorated the Easter season but also played a pivotal role in shaping the New Testament canon as we know it today. We also uncover Athanasius's theological insights on the nature of Christ's divinity and the indispensable role of the Holy Spirit in Christian doctrine.

Legacy:

We reflect on Athanasius's enduring legacy as a champion of orthodox Christian doctrine and the personhood of the Trinity and consider his contributions to the broader landscape of Christian thought, from his defence of Christ's deity to his theological reflections on eschatology and prophecy.

Closing Thoughts:

As we journey through the life and thinking of Athanasius, I invite you to engage critically and thoughtfully with his theological contributions. Whether you approach from a Roman Catholic, Protestant, Pentecostal, Orthodox, or Reformed perspective, there is much to glean from Athanasius's unwavering commitment to biblical truth and his profound impact on the Christian church.

Join us as we navigate the complexities of Athanasius's legacy and seek to uphold the timeless truths of the Christian faith in our contemporary context. Welcome to "Athanasius - Contending For the Deity of Christ."

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