Defining Christ

By Metselaar M.

Book Description

In the turbulent seventh century, as Arab forces reshaped the political landscape of the Persian Empire, one ancient Christian community faced an unprecedented theological challenge. The Church of the East found itself navigating between deeply held convictions about Christ's dual nature and the demands of new rulers who acknowledged Jesus as an extraordinary human teacher while rejecting his divinity.

This scholarly exploration reveals how religious leaders adapted their core beliefs when confronted with rapidly shifting political and theological pressures. At the heart of this investigation lie 106 remarkable letters penned by Isho'yahb III between 625 and 659, offering intimate glimpses into the spiritual and practical struggles of a community caught between worlds.

The Church of the East had already distinguished itself from other Christian denominations through its particular understanding of Christ's divine and human natures. Now, under new governance that challenged the very foundation of Christian doctrine, church leaders faced difficult questions about compromise, authenticity, and survival.

Through careful analysis of these historical documents, readers discover how faith communities have long grappled with maintaining spiritual integrity while adapting to changing circumstances. The letters illuminate not only a specific moment in Christian history but also timeless questions about how believers navigate the tension between unchanging truth and evolving contexts.

This work provides valuable insights for anyone interested in understanding how religious communities preserve their essential identity while engaging with diverse worldviews and political realities.

Who Is This For?

📖 Reading Level: Long (> 400 pages) (~13 hours)

📄 Length: 464 pages

What You'll Discover

✓ Explore Divinity of Christ
✓ Strengthen your faith journey
✓ Explore Assyrian Church of the East
✓ Explore Theology
✓ Explore Church of the East
✓ Explore Nestorianische Kirche
✓ Explore Islam
✓ Explore History of doctrines

Topics Covered

Divinity of Christ Interfaith relations Assyrian Church of the East Theology Church of the East Nestorianische Kirche Islam History of doctrines Doctrinal Divinity Relations Doctrines Doctines Doctrinal Theology History