Theology with Ricky Nazworth

The Council of Frankfurt in 794 AD played a pivotal role in defending orthodox Christology against the growing influence of Adoptionism, a heresy that claimed Jesus, in his humanity, was "adopted" as the Son of God rather than being the eternal Son from the beginning. The council, convened by Charlemagne with the support of Pope Hadrian I, firmly rejected this teaching and reaffirmed the doctrine of Christ as one divine person with two natures—fully God and fully man from the moment of his incarnation. The rejection of Adoptionism was not a political move but a theological necessity grounded in Scripture, the teachings of the early Church Fathers, medieval theologians, Protestant Reformers, and evangelical scholars throughout history. The Council of Frankfurt preserved the doctrine of Christ’s eternal sonship, ensuring that the Church remained faithful to the truth revealed in the Bible and the Nicene-Chalcedonian tradition. The Rise of Adoptionism and the Need for the Counci...

 As the festive season draws near, many homes are filled with decorations, gifts, and the anticipation of Christmas traditions, with the figure of Santa Claus at the center of it all. Behind the jolly red-suited character beloved by children worldwide lies a rich and complex history rooted in Christian tradition. This figure is none other than St. Nicholas, a bishop who lived over 1,700 years ago and whose life of charity, faith, and compassion has inspired centuries of myth and legend. In this expanded essay, we will explore who St. Nicholas was, his impact on Christian culture, how his story evolved into the modern image of Santa Claus, and the lasting legacy of this transformation. 1. The Life of St. Nicholas: Humble Beginnings and Early Christian Influence St. Nicholas was born around 280 AD in the coastal town of Patara, in what was then the Roman province of Lycia, located in modern-day Turkey. He came from a wealthy family, and his parents, devout Christians, instilled in hi...