Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Scope Christology is the branch of Christian theology that focuses on the study of the person, nature, and work of Jesus Christ. It seeks to understand who Jesus is, both in His divinity and humanity, and His role in the salvation of humankind. This field of study is central to Christian doctrine and has been a subject of theological reflection and debate throughout church history. Biblical Foundations The New Testament provides the primary source for Christological study, offering insights into the identity and mission of Jesus Christ. Key passages include: · John 1:1, 14 : "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God... The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us." This passage affirms the pre-existence and divinity of Christ, as well as His incarnation. · Philippians 2:6-7 : "Who, existing in the form of God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant, being made in human likeness." This highlights the humility and humanity of Christ, emphasizing His voluntary incarnation. · Colossians 1:15-20 : "The Son is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation... For God was pleased to have all His fullness dwell in Him, and through Him to reconcile to Himself all things." This passage underscores Christ's supremacy and His role in creation and reconciliation. Historical Development Throughout church history, various Christological heresies have arisen, prompting the need for clarification and doctrinal formulation. Key historical developments include: · The Council of Nicaea (AD 325): Addressed the Arian controversy, affirming the full divinity of Christ and producing the Nicene Creed, which states that Jesus is "true God from true God." · The Council of Chalcedon (AD 451): Defined the doctrine of the hypostatic union, declaring that Jesus is fully God and fully man, two natures in one person, "without confusion, without change, without division, without separation." Key Christological Titles The New Testament ascribes several titles to Jesus, each reflecting a different aspect of His identity and mission: · Messiah/Christ: The anointed one, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies as the Savior and King (Matthew 16:16). · Son of God: Denotes His unique relationship with the Father, affirming His divine nature (Mark 1:1). · Son of Man: A title Jesus frequently used for Himself, emphasizing His humanity and role as the eschatological judge (Daniel 7:13-14; Matthew 26:64). · Lord: A title of authority and divinity, acknowledging Jesus as sovereign (Romans 10:9). The Work of Christ Christology also examines the work of Christ, particularly His atoning death and resurrection: · Atonement: Jesus' sacrificial death on the cross is central to Christian belief, providing redemption and reconciliation with God. "He Himself bore our sins in His body on the tree, so that we might die to sin and live to righteousness" (1 Peter 2:24). · Resurrection: The resurrection is the cornerstone of Christian faith, demonstrating Christ's victory over sin and death. "He is not here; He has risen, just as He said" (Matthew 28:6). Contemporary Relevance Christology remains a vital area of theological inquiry, influencing Christian worship, ethics, and mission. Understanding the person and work of Christ is essential for articulating the Christian faith and engaging with contemporary cultural and religious challenges. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (n.) A treatise on Christ; that department of theology which treats of the personality, attributes, or life of Christ.International Standard Bible Encyclopedia CHRISTOLOGYSee PERSON OF CHRIST. Library Christology of the Old Testament Christology of the Old Testament The Author's Preface. The Song of Solomon. Those who First Advanced the Heresy of Artemon; their Manner of ... The Heresy of the Ebionites. The Messianic Prophecies in the Pentateuch. List of Contents. Translator's Preface. The Eastern Sects: Nestorians, Jacobites, Copts, Armenians. Thesaurus Christology... which treats of the personality, attributes, or life of Christ. Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. CHRISTOLOGY. See PERSON OF CHRIST. ... /c/christology.htm - 6k Colossians (1 Occurrence) Apocryphal Christians (13 Occurrences) General (9 Occurrences) Virgin (62 Occurrences) Birth (357 Occurrences) Christs (2 Occurrences) Ebionites Ebionism Resources What is Christology? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is kenoticism / kenotic theology? | GotQuestions.org What is Christian Eschatology? | GotQuestions.org Christology: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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