Theological Paper

Christological Heresies Essay

Your assignment is to write an essay (approximately 4 pages) that analyzes one of the Christological heresies of the 1st-5th centuries. This paper should consist of an introduction, body, and conclusion. The introduction should offer a main idea(s) that become(s) the paper’s connecting thread. The body should be a development of the idea(s) introduced. The conclusion should offer a concise, final thought on the idea(s) addressed throughout the paper.

Select only one of the following heresies:

· Arianism

· Apollinarianism

· Docetism

· Nestorianism

· Adoptionism

· Monophysitism

· Monothelitism

· Sabellianism

Address the following points:

· What does this heresy teach, and who/what group of people initially taught it?

· Make a brief argument that this heresy should indeed be considered a heresy (that it runs contrary to Christianity’s understanding of Jesus, God, and salvation)

· Make a brief argument that this heresy should have been accepted as a traditional Christian position.

· Which argument do you think is stronger? Why?

Adhere to the following guidelines:

· Include a bibliography of at least 3 sources in addition to the textbook. The bibliography can be in MLA , Turabian, or Chicago format. You may not use Wikipedia or any online user-submitted content. If you use any online sources, you must submit them for professor’s approval at least 72 hours in advance of the deadline.

· This paper must be approximately 4 typed pages, double-spaced, standard margins, size 12 font. Accepted fonts include Times New Roman, Arial, Calibri, and Cambria.

· This paper need not include a cover page or a specific type of header. Students should be sure to include name, date, class, and section somewhere at the top of the paper.

· Papers should be submitted as electronic copies before class on the due date listed in the syllabus. Instructor will create a drop box on Blackboard for submitting papers. Hard copies will not be accepted under typical circumstances. Students who are unable to submit an electronic copy should contact the instructor.

Grading:

Papers will be graded in terms of the following areas: creativity, organization and flow of content, use of course materials, depth in addressing the chosen prompt, and adherence to format and style guidelines.

· Papers receiving a grade in the “A” range will demonstrate superiority in at least four of the five areas.

· Papers receiving a grade in the “B” range will demonstrate high achievement, but less than superior achievement, in at least four of the five areas.

· Papers receiving a grade in the “C” range will demonstrate average achievement in at least four of the five areas.

· Papers receiving the grade “D” or “F” will demonstrate below average achievement or unacceptable work in at least three of the five areas.

· Papers proven to be plagiarized or academically dishonest in any way will receive an automatic “F” and referral to the department chair and academic dean for disciplinary action.