553–553 · Constantinople
Second Council of Constantinople
Why this council matters
The fifth ecumenical council shows why a definition can need further explanation even after an earlier council has spoken. The dispute concerned particular writings and how Chalcedon should be understood in relation to Cyril and the unity of Christ.
Its judgments cannot be understood well without identifying what the Three Chapters were. Read the council’s anathemas and the historical setting together. Doctrinal clarification and the troubled relationships surrounding its reception should be distinguished.
Read and investigate
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Controversies
The Three Chapters controversy and the interpretation of earlier Christological teaching.
Decrees
Rejected the Three Chapters while interpreting the unity of Christ within the received faith.
Definitions
The divine Son is the one personal subject of the incarnation and saving work.