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Truly Divine and Truly Human traces the fascinating story of how Christians came to proclaim Jesus of Nazareth as both ‘truly divine’ and ‘truly human.’ It follows the centuries of debate—and the Church councils—that led up to this proclamation and the years of argument and schism that followed. This declaration has remained central to Christianity down the centuries and an appreciation of how it was made is crucial not only for an understanding of Christian history but also for an understanding of Christian identity today.

Between 325 and 787 AD seven ecumenical councils took place in the early church. This book discusses what they had to say about Jesus Christ in the context of the developing Trinitarian theology of the time. Stephen Need examines the controversies that led up to the first seven ecumenical councils, the councils themselves, the decisions they made, the key theologians involved and the cities in which the councils were held. A final chapter looks at the contemporary significance of these councils and their positions for the church.

Written for introductory students and non-specialists with photographs throughout the text, Truly Divine and Truly Human is a highly readable introduction to a complex and formative period of Christian history.

Stephen W. Need has taught New Testament Studies and Early Christianity in England and Jerusalem. He has travelled widely in the Middle East and is currently Dean of St. George's College, Jerusalem.

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