Wednesday, January 10, 2007

Basil the Great of Caesarea, Gregory of Nazianzus, and Gregory of Nyssa, Pastors and Confessors

Basil and the two Gregorys, collectively known as the Cappadocian Fathers, were leaders of Christian orthodoxy in Asia Minor (modern Turkey) in the later fourth century. Basil and Gregory of Nyssa were brothers; Gregory of Nazianzus was their friend. All three were influential in shaping the theology ratified by the Council of Constantinople of 381, which is expressed in the Nicene Creed. Their defense of the doctrines of the Holy Spirit and Holy Trinity, together with their contributions to the liturgy of the Eastern Church, make them among the most influential Christian teachers and theologians of their time.

[From The Lutheran Church--Missouri Synod Commission on Worship]

2 comments:

David Contra Mundum said...

Hmmmm...so the theology ratified at Nicaea is expressed succinctly in the Creed. Does that mean that to unequivocally accept the Creed (which is a good thing, btw), one de facto accepts the Canons as well? Even the ones about monastic orders?

Btw, it's me, Pastor, Dave Hunt, and I'm just kinda messing with you...even though it is a sincere question.

rev.will said...

Dude, I know who the Filthy Augustinian is--really good to hear from you! Even if you *are* just messin' with me. ;-)

But as to your sincere question, yes, there have been a lot of things that have been ratified over the centuries. But the creeds are what we subscribe to, not every jot and tittle of what has been ratified. I know we depart when it comes to Sola Scriptura. My belief in it is why I can't accept everything that has been handed down by the Fathers. But the creeds, yes.