Portraits From the Past
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Portraits From the Past: Macrina the Younger
Historical Context The fourth century was a period of remarkable theological conflict. Although the Council of Nicaea condemned Arianism in 325 A.D., the decades that followed required extraordinary men to defend and articulate Nicene orthodoxy. Among them were Basil of Caesarea, Gregory of Nyssa, and Gregory of Nazianzus — together known as the Cappadocian Fathers.…
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Portraits From The Past: John Calvin
Historical Context The 16th century was a time of great upheaval within the Church. What began as calls for reform would soon erupt into what is now known as the Protestant Reformation. Doctrinal corruption and ecclesiastical abuse had led many to seek a return to the authority of Scripture. In this environment, God raised up…
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Portraits From the Past: Athanasius of Alexandria
Historical Context The fourth century would mark the end of the open persecution of Christianity. The Edict of Milan in 313 A.D. would make it a legal religion to practice in the Roman Empire. Surviving persecutions from both Jewish authorities in the first century and later Roman emperors such as Nero and Diocletian, the early…