The Church Fathers taught Miaphysitism

Introduction

This tutorial explores the teachings of Miaphysitism as presented by the Church Fathers and various councils prior to the Chalcedonian Schism. It aims to clarify the historical and theological context surrounding Miaphysitism, highlighting key figures and their contributions, as well as addressing misconceptions related to Dyophysitism.

Step 1: Understanding Miaphysitism

• Definition: Miaphysitism is the belief that in the person of Jesus Christ, His divine and human natures are united in one single nature (mia physis) without separation or confusion.
• Contrasting View: Dyophysitism posits that Christ has two distinct natures, divine and human, which are united in one person.
• Historical Context: Miaphysitism was a common belief among early Church Fathers and was affirmed at the Third Ecumenical Council of Ephesus.

Step 2: Key Councils Supporting Miaphysitism

• The Third Ecumenical Council of Ephesus:

  • Affirmed the unity of Christ's nature and condemned Nestorianism (which emphasized the distinction of natures).
  • Established a foundational support for Miaphysitism.

• The Council of Antioch:

  • Addressed early Christological controversies and reinforced the teachings of the Church Fathers regarding the oneness of Christ’s nature.

Step 3: Notable Church Fathers and Their Contributions

• St. Cyril of Alexandria:

  • Advocated for Miaphysitism through his writings, emphasizing Christ's divine and human unity.

• St. Athanasius of Alexandria:

  • His works laid the groundwork for understanding Christ’s divinity and humanity in a unified manner.

• Other Influential Figures:

  • St. Irenaeus: His teachings highlighted the importance of Christ’s incarnation and unity.
  • St. Gregory Thaumaturgus and St. Hilary of Poitiers: Both contributed to the theological discourse supporting Miaphysitism.

Step 4: Post-Schism Miaphysitism

• Veneration of Miaphysite Saints:

  • The impact of Miaphysitism continued through various saints who were venerated by both Chalcedonian and non-Chalcedonian traditions, such as St. Simeon the Stylite and Emperor Theodosius II.

• Influence on Later Theological Developments:

  • The teachings of the Miaphysite Fathers influenced theological discussions in the centuries following the Chalcedonian Schism.

Step 5: Scriptural Foundations

• Patristic Exegesis:
  • The interpretation of scripture by the Church Fathers provides a robust theological framework for Miaphysitism.
  • Key figures like St. Clement of Alexandria and St. Jerome cited scripture to support the notion of a single united nature in Christ.

Step 6: Addressing Monothelitism and Monoenergism

• Understanding Compromises:

  • Chalcedonian compromises with Monothelitism (one will) and Monoenergism (one energy) stemmed from a desire to reconcile differences, yet these concepts diverged from the original Miaphysite position.

• Key Historical Events:

  • The controversies surrounding Constantinople II and Pope Vigilius illustrate the ongoing debates and compromises in Christological understanding.

Conclusion

The teachings of Miaphysitism, upheld by numerous Church Fathers and councils, demonstrate a rich theological tradition emphasizing the unity of Christ's nature. This tutorial has outlined the historical context, key figures, and scriptural foundations that support Miaphysitism. As you delve deeper into these teachings, consider exploring the writings of the Church Fathers for a more profound understanding of their theological significance.