Doctrine and power: theological controversy and Christian leadership in the later Roman Empire

During the fourth century AD, theological controversy divided Christian communities throughout the eastern half of the Roman Empire. At stake in these disputes was not only the truth about God but also the authority of church leaders whose legitimacy rested on their willingness to validate that truth. Because that truth could not be fixed, however, nor that willingness secured, the dispute constantly threatened prelates' claims to authority. This book argues that churchmen's response to that challenge gave birth to a new style of church leadership that contributed to the affirmation of episcopal power.