History of the Church

HIST 100

General History

2 lessons

Foundational

1. 1 The Great PersecutionPersecution and suffering have been a hallmark of Christianity since its inception. The Bible warns us, "In this world, you will have tribulation. But be of good cheer, I have overcome the… 19 min · 10 q
2. 2 MonasticismHistorians have meticulously accounted for ten waves of extensive persecutions that occurred during the reign of various Roman emperors. These emperors, including prominent figures such as Nero, Domitian, Trajan, Marcus Aurelius, Severus,… 17 min · 5 q

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HIST 101

The Ecumenical Councils

4 lessons

Foundational

1. 1 Council of Nicaea & CanonsThroughout the commemoration of the saints, believers are reminded of the extraordinary individuals whose lives and sacrifices have indelibly shaped the Christian faith. Among those honored are Saint Gregory the Theologian, renowned… 24 min · 10 q
2. 2 Council of Constantinople & CanonsThe Council of Constantinople, convened in 381 AD by Roman Emperor Theodosius I in Constantinople, served as an important gathering of Christian bishops. The council primarily focused on addressing two notable heresies… 10 min · 10 q
3. 3 Council of Ephesus & CanonsNestorius was the Patriarch of Constantinople, who was originally from Antioch in Syria, (like St. John Chrysostom.) He was born in 386, and became patriarch in 428 AD, by Emperor Theodosius II,… 21 min · 6 q
4. 4 Council of ChalcedonAs Chrisitanity grew through the first few centuries, five apostolic Sees led the way: Alexandria, Jerusalem, Antioch, Rome, and Constantinople. These Sees were important centers of Christianity and played a significant role… 16 min · 5 q

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HIST 201

Heresies & Schisms

5 lessons

Intermediate

1. 1 Heresies of the Early ChurchThe word "heresy" has a rich and complex history, rooted in the ancient Greek language. Derived from the Greek word "αἵρεσις" ("hairesis"), a feminine noun stemming from the verb "hairéomai," it initially… 21 min · 12 q
2. 2 The Division after ChalcedonThe Council of Chalcedon, convened in 451 AD, was sparked by the heresy of Eutyches. This influential monk asserted that Christ possessed only a divine nature, denying his human nature, a belief… 19 min · 10 q
3. 3 The Great SchismThe Great Schism, also known as the East-West Schism or the Schism of 1054, marked the break between the Western (Roman Catholic) and Eastern (Orthodox) Churches. Numerous theological, political, and cultural factors… 33 min · 8 q
4. 4 The Protestant ReformationCouncils have played a pivotal role in the history of the Christian Church, serving as vital 19 min · 11 q
5. 5 Canon Law History & OverviewThe term "canon" originates from the Greek word "kanon," which translates to "rule" or "standard." Within the context of the Church, canons represent a set of generally accepted rules and regulations that… 22 min · 10 q

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