Teologická reflexe (Theological Reflection) is a peer-reviewed journal for theology that has been published continuously since 1995 (archive of the issues from 1995–2023). It publishes the results of original research in the fields of biblical studies, systematic, historical, practical and ecumenical theology, theological ethics and church history, as well as philosophy, religious studies, social work and other disciplines where they have an overlap with theology.
The journal focuses on the reflection and interpretation of biblical and Christian tradition, the experience of Christian faith, the processes of its communication and faith-motivated action in present and past social contexts. In addition to original research studies, it also publishes scholarly review articles and book reviews.
It is published twice a year in print and online (open access). It accepts articles in Czech, Slovak, English or German.
TEOLOGICKÁ REFLEXE, Vol 32 No 1 (2026), 72–96
ArticleWhy Heresy Matters: Contesting the Legacy of Nicaea
Thomas A. Fudge
DOI: https://doi.org/10.14712/27880796.2026.13
published online: 02. 06. 2026
abstract
The Council of Nicaea (325) marked a watershed in the history of Christianity and in the history of doctrine. Theologically, it was a pivotal moment for the recently legalized Christian religion. The creation of orthodoxy at Nicaea resulted in the creation or expansion of heresy and a doctrine that was thereafter imposed with a modicum of protection from challenge. Augustine noted that only great people were heretics. Despite such greatness, heresy has always been feared. Intellectual adventure is a dynamic process rather than a series of still frames. Reflecting on the council’s 1700th anniversary, this essay explores the worst (unintended?) consequences of Nicaea in terms of theological calcification, intolerance, persecution, and the demonizing of dissenters, and offers a revisionist evaluation of heresy. It argues that heresy is not necessarily fatal and that the intellectual legacy of Nicaea has included demonizing difference, thus bequeathing a contested legacy to Christianity.
keywords: Christology; heresy; history of doctrine; Nicaea; orthodoxy; Trinity
Why Heresy Matters: Contesting the Legacy of Nicaea is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
148 x 210 mm
periodicity: 2 x per year
print price: 79 czk
ISSN: 1211-1872
E-ISSN: 2788-0796
