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Theodotus of Ancyra

Theodotus of Ancyra was a fifth-century bishop of Ancyra who played a significant role in the theological disputes of his time. He is primarily remembered for his attendance at the Council of Ephesus in 431, where he shifted his support from Nestorius to Patriarch Cyril of Alexandria, contributing to the condemnation of Nestorian theology.

Country Or Region
Turkey

Key Facts

  • Theodotus of Ancyra was a fifth-century bishop of Ancyra.
  • He attended the Council of Ephesus in 431 during the reign of Emperor Theodosius II.
  • Initially, he supported the Nestorian theology of Nestorius.
  • At the council, he switched his allegiance to Patriarch Cyril of Alexandria.
  • He supported Cyril in condemning Nestorius.
  • Theodotus was himself condemned by Nestorians at their 432 Synod of Tarsus.

About Theodotus of Ancyra

Theodotus of Ancyra was a bishop of Ancyra (modern Ankara) in the fifth century. He was a theologian who played a role in the significant Christological debates of his time.

Council of Ephesus and Theological Shift

During the reign of Byzantine Emperor Theodosius II, Theodotus attended the Council of Ephesus in 431. At this council, he is noted for a notable shift in his theological allegiance. While he had previously supported the Nestorian theology promoted by Nestorius, the bishop of Constantinople, Theodotus at the council sided with Patriarch Cyril of Alexandria. His support was instrumental in the condemnation of Nestorius and his theological views.

Condemnation by Nestorians

As a consequence of his actions at the Council of Ephesus, Theodotus of Ancyra faced repercussions from those who upheld Nestorian theology. He was condemned by the Nestorians at their Synod of Tarsus in 432, illustrating the deep divisions and intense theological conflicts of the fifth century.

Source: Wikipedia ↗

Frequently Asked Questions

Who was Theodotus of Ancyra?

Theodotus of Ancyra was a fifth-century bishop of Ancyra (modern Ankara). He was a theologian known for his involvement in significant Church councils.

What was Theodotus of Ancyra's role at the Council of Ephesus?

At the Council of Ephesus in 431, Theodotus of Ancyra supported Patriarch Cyril of Alexandria in condemning Nestorius. This was a significant shift, as he had previously supported Nestorian theology.

When did Theodotus of Ancyra live?

Theodotus of Ancyra was a fifth-century bishop. He attended the Council of Ephesus in 431 and was condemned at the Synod of Tarsus in 432.

What theological positions did Theodotus of Ancyra hold?

Theodotus of Ancyra initially supported Nestorian theology but later switched his allegiance at the Council of Ephesus in 431, siding with Cyril of Alexandria against Nestorius.