WrittenFromUtopia
Puritan Board Graduate
In Christian theology the filioque clause or filioque controversy (filioque meaning "and [from] the Son," referring to the Holy Spirit) is a heavily disputed part of the Nicene Creed, that forms a divisive difference in particular between the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox traditions. It is most often referred to as simply "filioque" or "the filioque."
Here is a summary statement of a parish that is a member of the Orthodox Church in America (OCA) on the doctrine of the Holy Spirit:
THE HOLY SPIRIT
is one of the Persons of the Trinity and is one in essence with the Father. Orthodox Christians repeatedly confess, "And I believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord and Giver of life, who proceeds from the Father, who together with the Father and the Son is worshipped and glorified. . ." He is called the "Promise of the Father" (Acts 1:4), given by Christ as a gift to the Church, to empower the Church for service to God (Acts 1:8), to place God's love in our hearts (Romans 5:5), and to impart spiritual gifts (1 Corinthians 12:7-13) and virtues (Galatians 5:22, 23) for Christian life and witness. Orthodox Christians believe the biblical promise that the Holy Spirit is given in chrismation (anointing) at baptism (Acts 2:38). We are to grow in our experience of the Holy Spirit for the rest of our lives.
How big of a deal is this, both theologically and pragmatically? Is the Orthodox view worth the "split" of the Church? Does it make them heretical on this matter?
What are your thoughts?
"But when the Helper comes, whom I will send to you from the Father, the Spirit of truth, who proceeds from the Father, he will bear witness about me."
John 15:26 ESV
[Edited on 8-9-2006 by WrittenFromUtopia]