The Rise of Constantine and Early Christian Doctrine

Flashcards created to assist in reviewing key vocabulary and concepts related to the rise of Constantine and early Christian doctrine, focusing on important terms, figures, and events.

What is tetrarchy?

A system of government where power is divided among four individuals.

What does labarum refer to?

A military standard featuring a Christian symbol, often associated with Emperor Constantine.

What is a basilica?

A large important church building, often used as a place of gathering and worship in Christian tradition.

What does ontological divide mean?

A philosophical distinction in being or existence, particularly in theological contexts.

What is homousios?

A term meaning 'of the same substance,' often used in discussions of the nature of Christ in relation to God.

What is homoiousios?

A term meaning 'of similar substance,' which was used in theological debates about the nature of Christ.

What does homoean refer to?

A theological position that emphasized the similarity of the substance of the Father and the Son.

What is anomoean?

A term that denotes the belief that the Son is unlike the Father in essence.

What is Sabellianism?

A modalist belief that emphasizes the oneness of God and denies the distinct persons of the Trinity.

What does hypostasis mean?

The underlying reality or substance, particularly in the context of the Trinity as the distinct persons of God.

What is soteriology?

The study of salvation, particularly in Christian theology.

What does perichoresis refer to?

The interpenetration and indwelling of the three persons of the Trinity.

What does 'three hypostaseis in one ousia' refer to?

The theological concept that there are three distinct persons (hypostaseis) in one essence (ousia) in the Godhead.

What is The Dedication Creed?

A statement of faith related to the dedication of a church or a declaration of belief.

What is the Makrostich?

A poem or text that contains a comprehensive outline of theological beliefs or creedal statements.