In this short paper (800-1,000 words, double spaced, standard 12-point font),

Explain the major Christological perspectives that were discussed in the Ecumenical Councils of the fourth and fifth centuries, which specifically include: the Council of Nicaea (June 325 AD), the Council of Constantinople (381 AD), and the Council of Chalcedon (October 451 AD). This paper should demonstrate interaction with the three course textbooks (Bingham, Lane, Kerr). Additionally, cite at least one additional scholarly source.

In this paper, comment on the following three areas, and include these bolded, numbered section headings in your paper itself:

1. The Controversy (approx. 250-300 words)
First, drawing from your course texts, briefly discuss the controversy over the deity of Jesus.

•What were the positions of the different parties (concentrate on their views about Christ)?
•Why did they hold these views?

2. The Outcome (approx. 250-300 words)
Second, describe the outcome of these councils, including the "Chalcedonian Definition".

•What conclusions were reached at Nicaea and the subsequent councils?
•Why did they reach them?
•What difference did these specific conclusions make in the life of the church?

3. Application and Analysis (approx. 300-400 words)
Third, apply what you have learned to your contemporary Christian fellowship/church experience. Possible questions for your reflection in this third section would be:

•What is the Christology (the understanding of who Christ is) of your contemporary Christian fellowship/church?
•How does this Christology compare or contrast with Nicene orthodoxy?
•How does your Christian fellowship/church adherence or departure from Nicene orthodoxy affect the message of salvation (and it does!)?
•Why should (or shouldn't) the thinking of contemporary Christians be/ become aligned with the Nicene Creed?