Adoptianism meaning

Adoptianism is a belief that Jesus was born a mere human and later "adopted" as God's son.


Adoptianism definitions

Word backwards msinaitpoda
Part of speech The word "Adoptianism" is a proper noun.
Syllabic division a-dop-ti-an-ism
Plural The plural of the word "adoptianism" is adoptianisms.
Total letters 11
Vogais (3) a,o,i
Consonants (6) d,p,t,n,s,m

Adoptianism, a theological belief that emerged in the early centuries of Christianity, challenges the traditional understanding of the nature of Jesus Christ. This belief posits that Jesus was born a mere mortal but was later "adopted" as the Son of God either at his baptism or at his resurrection.

Origins of Adoptianism

The roots of adoptianism can be traced back to the early Christian church, particularly in the Eastern Roman Empire. The belief gained traction in areas such as Spain and Gaul, where it found proponents among theologians like Theodotus of Byzantium and Paul of Samosata.

Key Tenets

Central to adoptianism is the idea that Jesus, as a human being, lived a virtuous life and was chosen by God to become the Son of God due to his obedience and faithfulness. This adoption elevated Jesus to a divine status, but it does not necessarily imply that he was of the same essence as God from eternity.

Controversy and Opposition

Adoptianism faced significant opposition from mainstream Christian leaders and theologians, who argued that it undermined the fundamental doctrine of the Trinity and the divinity of Christ. The debate over the nature of Christ led to several ecumenical councils, such as the Council of Nicaea in 325 AD, which sought to define orthodox beliefs.

Legacy and Influence

Although adoptianism was ultimately deemed heretical by the early church, its influence can still be seen in later movements and theological debates. The emphasis on Jesus' humanity and his moral example continues to resonate with some Christians who seek to reconcile the divine and human aspects of Christ.

In conclusion, adoptianism represents a unique perspective on the nature of Jesus Christ that diverges from mainstream Christian beliefs. While it may have been condemned as heresy by the early church, its legacy serves as a reminder of the rich diversity of thought within Christianity.


Adoptianism Examples

  1. Some scholars argue that adoptianism was a belief held by early Christians.
  2. The controversy surrounding adoptianism led to theological debates in the early Church.
  3. Adoptianism posits that Jesus was not born the Son of God, but adopted as such.
  4. The Council of Frankfurt in 794 condemned the teachings of adoptianism.
  5. Adoptianism challenged traditional views of the nature of Jesus Christ.
  6. Some historians view adoptianism as a response to Arianism in the 8th century.
  7. The adoptionist position on the nature of Christ was seen as heretical by many theologians.
  8. Adoptianism was officially rejected by the Council of Nicea in 325.
  9. Adoptianism was a key issue in the Christological controversies of the early Church.
  10. Adoptianism emphasized the humanity of Jesus Christ over his divinity.


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  • Updated 25/06/2024 - 18:51:36