The Road to Nicea en Emperors, bishops, monks, riots - and that Creed you hear on Sunday mornings. Join the Rev. Ben Wyatt in a fascinating account of Christ, creed, and controversy in the turbulent 4th century. https://megaphone.imgix.net/podcasts/a2e1cedc-5ea0-11ed-9ecc-bb6ad52a1b05/image/Road_to_Nicea_Fancy_Script_3000x3000.jpg?ixlib=rails-4.3.1&max-w=3000&max-h=3000&fit=crop&auto=format,compress The Road to Nicea no episodic An Earth & Altar podcast Ben Wyatt Emperors, bishops, monks, riots - and that Creed you hear on Sunday mornings. Join the Rev. Ben Wyatt in a fascinating account of Christ, creed, and controversy in the turbulent 4th century. Emperors, bishops, monks, riots - and that Creed you hear on Sunday mornings. Join the Rev. Ben Wyatt in a fascinating account of Christ, creed, and controversy in the turbulent 4th century.

]]> Ben Wyatt therevbenwyatt@gmail.com The Road to Nicea...in Book Form! Ben has written a book! You can buy it at the links below. From the publisher (this is the good option, click here): https://wipfandstock.com/9798385237203/christ-and-the-council/ From Amazon (paperback): https://www.amazon.com/Christ-Council-Conflict-Outrageous-Extraordinary/dp/B0FJ9CK793/ref=sr_1_1 From Amazon (Kindle): https://www.amazon.com/Christ-Council-Conflict-Outrageous-Extraordinary-ebook/dp/B0FHYKD1VD/ref=sr_1_3 Wed, 23 Jul 2025 02:32:00 -0000 bonus Ben Wyatt Ben has written a book! You can buy it at the links below. From the publisher (this is the good option, click here): https://wipfandstock.com/9798385237203/christ-and-the-council/ From Amazon (paperback): https://www.amazon.com/Christ-Council-Conflict-Outrageous-Extraordinary/dp/B0FJ9CK793/ref=sr_1_1 From Amazon (Kindle): https://www.amazon.com/Christ-Council-Conflict-Outrageous-Extraordinary-ebook/dp/B0FHYKD1VD/ref=sr_1_3 Ben has written a book! You can buy it at the links below.


From the publisher (this is the good option, click here): https://wipfandstock.com/9798385237203/christ-and-the-council/


From Amazon (paperback): https://www.amazon.com/Christ-Council-Conflict-Outrageous-Extraordinary/dp/B0FJ9CK793/ref=sr_1_1


From Amazon (Kindle): https://www.amazon.com/Christ-Council-Conflict-Outrageous-Extraordinary-ebook/dp/B0FHYKD1VD/ref=sr_1_3


]]> 269 no An Update On What's Next It's been a minute. Time for Ben to fill you in on the current status of the next podcast! You can support Ben's work on Patreon: https://patreon.com/BenWyatt Be sure to follow In Simeon's Wake on all your favorite social media platforms! https://bsky.app/profile/insimeonswake.bsky.social https://twitter.com/insimeonswake https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61571663144225 Sun, 02 Feb 2025 20:02:00 -0000 bonus Ben Wyatt It's been a minute. Time for Ben to fill you in on the current status of the next podcast! You can support Ben's work on Patreon: https://patreon.com/BenWyatt Be sure to follow In Simeon's Wake on all your favorite social media platforms! https://bsky.app/profile/insimeonswake.bsky.social https://twitter.com/insimeonswake https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61571663144225 It's been a minute. Time for Ben to fill you in on the current status of the next podcast!


You can support Ben's work on Patreon: https://patreon.com/BenWyatt


Be sure to follow In Simeon's Wake on all your favorite social media platforms!


https://bsky.app/profile/insimeonswake.bsky.social

https://twitter.com/insimeonswake

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61571663144225

]]> 291 no Episode 44 - The Conclusion Our long journey has reached its end. What are we going to do? Harangue you about proper historiography one final time! Fri, 16 Aug 2024 04:00:00 -0000 The Conclusion full Ben Wyatt Our long journey has reached its end. What are we going to do? Harangue you about proper historiography one final time! Our long journey has reached its end. What are we going to do? Harangue you about proper historiography one final time!

]]> 1363 no Supplemental - What's Next? In which Ben gives a few updates on the future of his endeavors. Fri, 09 Aug 2024 04:00:00 -0000 What's Next? full Ben Wyatt In which Ben gives a few updates on the future of his endeavors. In which Ben gives a few updates on the future of his endeavors.

]]> 701 no Episode 42 - In the Wake of Controversy: The Children of Nicea A golden-mouthed preacher, a monk with a past, a celebrated poet, and a notorious heretic - come learn about the next generation of theologians and how they responded to the Christological controversies of their day! Fri, 02 Aug 2024 05:00:00 -0000 In the Wake of Controversy full Ben Wyatt The Children of Nicea A golden-mouthed preacher, a monk with a past, a celebrated poet, and a notorious heretic - come learn about the next generation of theologians and how they responded to the Christological controversies of their day! A golden-mouthed preacher, a monk with a past, a celebrated poet, and a notorious heretic - come learn about the next generation of theologians and how they responded to the Christological controversies of their day!

]]> 2047 no Episode 41 - Let's Get Together: Nicea and the Idea of a Church Council Sometimes the biggest impact of a council is on, well, other councils! See what later gatherings of bishops would make of Nicea's legacy. Oh, and there's a guest appearance by...Attila the Hun? Fri, 19 Jul 2024 05:00:00 -0000 Let's Get Together full Ben Wyatt Nicea and the Idea of a Church Council Sometimes the biggest impact of a council is on, well, other councils! See what later gatherings of bishops would make of Nicea's legacy. Oh, and there's a guest appearance by...Attila the Hun? Sometimes the biggest impact of a council is on, well, other councils! See what later gatherings of bishops would make of Nicea's legacy. Oh, and there's a guest appearance by...Attila the Hun?

]]> 1989 no Episode 40 - Interpreting in the Shadow of the Council: Nicea and the Future of Orthodox Theology You already know that Nicea didn't create the biblical canon. But how did Nicea change the way the Bible was read? Listen on to find out! Fri, 05 Jul 2024 05:00:00 -0000 Interpreting in the Shadow of the Council full Ben Wyatt Nicea and the Future of Orthodox Theology You already know that Nicea didn't create the biblical canon. But how did Nicea change the way the Bible was read? Listen on to find out! You already know that Nicea didn't create the biblical canon. But how did Nicea change the way the Bible was read? Listen on to find out!

]]> 1497 no Episode 39 - The Creed and the Sword: Nicea and the Problem of Religious Violence In which we delve into one of the most pernicious of religious problems: the frequency with which conviction and violence go together. Fri, 21 Jun 2024 05:00:00 -0000 The Creed and the Sword full Ben Wyatt Nicea and the Problem of Religious Violence In which we delve into one of the most pernicious of religious problems: the frequency with which conviction and violence go together. In which we delve into one of the most pernicious of religious problems: the frequency with which conviction and violence go together.

]]> 2230 no Episode 38 - The Society of the Divine: Social Trinitarianism and the Modern Legacy of Nicea Had enough of ancient history? Get your fill of modern history as we cover Nicea's continuing relevance to modern theology and church politics through one of its most controversial interpretations: social trinitarianism. Fri, 07 Jun 2024 05:00:00 -0000 The Society of the Divine full Ben Wyatt Social Trinitarianism and the Modern Legacy of Nicea Had enough of ancient history? Get your fill of modern history as we cover Nicea's continuing relevance to modern theology and church politics through one of its most controversial interpretations: social trinitarianism. Had enough of ancient history? Get your fill of modern history as we cover Nicea's continuing relevance to modern theology and church politics through one of its most controversial interpretations: social trinitarianism.

]]> 2036 no Supplemental - The Anguish of a Poet: The Final Years of Gregory of Nazianzus Gregory of Nazianzus may be out of Constantinople, but his pen is as sharp as ever. Come see how he uses it to defend the Holy Spirit, his honor, and true love. Fri, 31 May 2024 05:00:00 -0000 The Anguish of a Poet bonus Ben Wyatt The Final Years of Gregory of Nazianzus Gregory of Nazianzus may be out of Constantinople, but his pen is as sharp as ever. Come see how he uses it to defend the Holy Spirit, his honor, and true love. Gregory of Nazianzus may be out of Constantinople, but his pen is as sharp as ever. Come see how he uses it to defend the Holy Spirit, his honor, and true love.

]]> 748 no Episode 37 - Like Father, Like Son: The Filioque Clause In which we finally cover the lasting Nicene controversy: the notorious filioque clause. Fri, 17 May 2024 05:00:00 -0000 Like Father, Like Son full Ben Wyatt The Filioque Clause In which we finally cover the lasting Nicene controversy: the notorious filioque clause. In which we finally cover the lasting Nicene controversy: the notorious filioque clause.

]]> 2058 no Episode 36 - Oops, I Denied the Homoousios Again: The Afterlives of “Arianism” The "orthodox" may be enjoying their victory, but that doesn't mean Nicea's dissenters are going to take it lying down! They are going to persist! They are going to argue! Mostly with each other. They are going to have mystical visions! Where everything is married. They are going to...invent classical physics. Seriously. Listen on to learn more! Fri, 03 May 2024 05:00:00 -0000 Oops, I Denied the Homoousios Again full Ben Wyatt The Afterlives of “Arianism” The "orthodox" may be enjoying their victory, but that doesn't mean Nicea's dissenters are going to take it lying down! They are going to persist! They are going to argue! Mostly with each other. They are going to have mystical visions! Where everything is married. They are going to...invent classical physics. Seriously. Listen on to learn more! The "orthodox" may be enjoying their victory, but that doesn't mean Nicea's dissenters are going to take it lying down! They are going to persist! They are going to argue! Mostly with each other. They are going to have mystical visions! Where everything is married. They are going to...invent classical physics. Seriously.

Listen on to learn more!

]]> 2082 no Episode 35 - The Trials of the Victors and the Shifting of Power: Theodosius, the Troubles of the West, and the Fate of the “Orthodox” Well, that's that. The Council of Constantinople is done, Nicea is victorious and its opponents refuted. Now it's time to see what will become of the victors. How will they use this extraordinary new power they hold? Fri, 19 Apr 2024 05:00:00 -0000 The Trials of the Victors and the Shifting of Power full Ben Wyatt Theodosius, the Troubles of the West, and the Fate of the “Orthodox” Well, that's that. The Council of Constantinople is done, Nicea is victorious and its opponents refuted. Now it's time to see what will become of the victors. How will they use this extraordinary new power they hold? Well, that's that. The Council of Constantinople is done, Nicea is victorious and its opponents refuted. Now it's time to see what will become of the victors. How will they use this extraordinary new power they hold?

]]> 1901 no Episode 34 - The Final Council: Constantinople and the Triumph of Nicea Our plucky players have finally made it to the main event: the Council of Constantinople. But with bishop elections to decide and heretics to denounce, who will come out on top - and what will it take to get there? Find out today! Fri, 05 Apr 2024 05:00:00 -0000 The Final Council full Ben Wyatt Constantinople and the Triumph of Nicea Our plucky players have finally made it to the main event: the Council of Constantinople. But with bishop elections to decide and heretics to denounce, who will come out on top - and what will it take to get there? Find out today! Our plucky players have finally made it to the main event: the Council of Constantinople. But with bishop elections to decide and heretics to denounce, who will come out on top - and what will it take to get there?

Find out today!

]]> 1916 no Supplemental - Barbarians or Rivals: Who are the Ancient Goths? Just who are these pesky Germanic raiders who keep pillaging Rome's cities and beheading its emperors? Listen today to find out - and to learn the limits of Rome's tolerance for outsiders. The Gothic crown described in this episode can be found here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Goths#/media/File:CoronaRecesvinto01.JPG Fri, 29 Mar 2024 13:47:00 -0000 Barbarians or Rivals bonus Ben Wyatt Who are the Ancient Goths? Just who are these pesky Germanic raiders who keep pillaging Rome's cities and beheading its emperors? Listen today to find out - and to learn the limits of Rome's tolerance for outsiders. The Gothic crown described in this episode can be found here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Goths#/media/File:CoronaRecesvinto01.JPG Just who are these pesky Germanic raiders who keep pillaging Rome's cities and beheading its emperors? Listen today to find out - and to learn the limits of Rome's tolerance for outsiders.


The Gothic crown described in this episode can be found here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Goths#/media/File:CoronaRecesvinto01.JPG

]]> 1268 no Episode 33 - God’s Gift to the Nicenes: Theodosius and the Last Great Council Good news! Valens is no more and the Nicene-respecting Theodosius has ascended to the imperial purple. But before he can change history, he has to get from Spain to Constantinople - and there's a very angry Gothic army in his way. Sat, 16 Mar 2024 05:00:00 -0000 God’s Gift to the Nicenes full Ben Wyatt Theodosius and the Last Great Council Good news! Valens is no more and the Nicene-respecting Theodosius has ascended to the imperial purple. But before he can change history, he has to get from Spain to Constantinople - and there's a very angry Gothic army in his way. Good news! Valens is no more and the Nicene-respecting Theodosius has ascended to the imperial purple. But before he can change history, he has to get from Spain to Constantinople - and there's a very angry Gothic army in his way.

]]> 1748 no Episode 32 - The Storm Before the Calm: Religion Under Valens, 360 - 379 The historical narrative FINALLY gets moving as the plucky defenders of Nicea must deal with yet another anti-Nicene emperor. But will they be able to make any progress when they can't agree with each other? Tune in to find out! Fri, 01 Mar 2024 06:00:00 -0000 The Storm Before the Calm full Ben Wyatt Religion Under Valens, 360 - 379 The historical narrative FINALLY gets moving as the plucky defenders of Nicea must deal with yet another anti-Nicene emperor. But will they be able to make any progress when they can't agree with each other? Tune in to find out! The historical narrative FINALLY gets moving as the plucky defenders of Nicea must deal with yet another anti-Nicene emperor. But will they be able to make any progress when they can't agree with each other? Tune in to find out!

]]> 1653 no Episode 31 - The Midwestern Heresy: Eunomius’s Apology for the Apology Eunomius won't say sorry...even if this book might have killed someone! Tune in and learn more. Fri, 16 Feb 2024 06:00:00 -0000 The Midwestern Heresy full Ben Wyatt Eunomius’s Apology for the Apology Eunomius won't say sorry...even if this book might have killed someone! Tune in and learn more. Eunomius won't say sorry...even if this book might have killed someone! Tune in and learn more.

]]> 1794 no Episode 30 - Hater, Heresiarch, and Heteroousian: Who is the Fourth Cappadocian? It's time to meet the Cappadocian the orthodox don't want you to know about. Fri, 02 Feb 2024 06:00:00 -0000 Hater, Heresiarch, and Heteroousian full Ben Wyatt Who is the Fourth Cappadocian? It's time to meet the Cappadocian the orthodox don't want you to know about. It's time to meet the Cappadocian the orthodox don't want you to know about.

]]> 1844 no Supplemental: An Epistolary Ecclesiarchy - The Letters of Gregory and Basil What better way to understand Basil and Gregory's friendship than by reading through their mail? Fri, 26 Jan 2024 06:00:00 -0000 An Epistolary Ecclesiarchy full Ben Wyatt The Letters of Gregory and Basil What better way to understand Basil and Gregory's friendship than by reading through their mail? What better way to understand Basil and Gregory's friendship than by reading through their mail?

]]> 1580 no Episode 29: Sermons for the Son - The Five Theological Orations Gregory is in the belly of the homoian beast in Constantinople. Will his words be enough to convince them to accept the Nicene Creed? Well, no. But they WILL inspire the church for centuries to come! So join us as we explore the genius of Gregory's thought. Fri, 19 Jan 2024 06:00:00 -0000 Sermons for the Son full Ben Wyatt The Five Theological Orations Gregory is in the belly of the homoian beast in Constantinople. Will his words be enough to convince them to accept the Nicene Creed? Well, no. But they WILL inspire the church for centuries to come! So join us as we explore the genius of Gregory's thought. Gregory is in the belly of the homoian beast in Constantinople. Will his words be enough to convince them to accept the Nicene Creed?

Well, no.

But they WILL inspire the church for centuries to come! So join us as we explore the genius of Gregory's thought.

]]> 1861 no Supplemental: Saint in the City - Gregory's Constantinopolitan Adventures Gregory of Nazianzus has finally landed in the big city of Constantinople! Learn about all his wild adventures in this episode. But is he a Carrie, a Miranda, or even a Mr. Big? Fri, 12 Jan 2024 06:00:00 -0000 Saint in the City bonus Ben Wyatt Gregory's Constantinopolitan Adventures Gregory of Nazianzus has finally landed in the big city of Constantinople! Learn about all his wild adventures in this episode. But is he a Carrie, a Miranda, or even a Mr. Big? Gregory of Nazianzus has finally landed in the big city of Constantinople! Learn about all his wild adventures in this episode. But is he a Carrie, a Miranda, or even a Mr. Big?

]]> 596 no Episode 28 - The Olympic Orator: Who is Gregory of Nazianzus? It's time to meet the third Cappadocian Father! Basil's friend Gregory is a brilliant orator, dedicated theologian, and Father of the Church. He'll change the course of history forever...but first, he has to stop loafing around on his dad's farm and get a job. Learn how in this episode! Fri, 05 Jan 2024 06:00:00 -0000 The Olympic Orator full Ben Wyatt Who is Gregory of Nazianzus? It's time to meet the third Cappadocian Father! Basil's friend Gregory is a brilliant orator, dedicated theologian, and Father of the Church. He'll change the course of history forever...but first, he has to stop loafing around on his dad's farm and get a job. Learn how in this episode! It's time to meet the third Cappadocian Father! Basil's friend Gregory is a brilliant orator, dedicated theologian, and Father of the Church. He'll change the course of history forever...but first, he has to stop loafing around on his dad's farm and get a job. Learn how in this episode!

]]> 2687 no Supplemental - Writing About the Good Book: Athanasius’s Festal Letter of 367 It's time to put some old rumors about Nicea to rest - and who better to do so than Athanasius of Alexandria? Join us as we read his festal letter and learn who really decided what books were in the Bible! Fri, 29 Dec 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Writing About the Good Book bonus Ben Wyatt Athanasius’s Festal Letter of 367 It's time to put some old rumors about Nicea to rest - and who better to do so than Athanasius of Alexandria? Join us as we read his festal letter and learn who really decided what books were in the Bible! It's time to put some old rumors about Nicea to rest - and who better to do so than Athanasius of Alexandria? Join us as we read his festal letter and learn who really decided what books were in the Bible!

]]> 683 no Supplemental: The Christmas Special It's a lonely night in the fourth century...but one of our Cappadocians just might be getting some extra company this Christmas! Sat, 23 Dec 2023 06:00:00 -0000 The Christmas Special bonus Ben Wyatt It's a lonely night in the fourth century...but one of our Cappadocians just might be getting some extra company this Christmas! It's a lonely night in the fourth century...but one of our Cappadocians just might be getting some extra company this Christmas!

]]> 1166 no Supplemental - The Epic Ecstatic Epektasis: Gregory of Nyssa, Salvation, and the Life of Moses There's no better time than now to review one of Gregory's most celebrated ideas: the notion of epektasis, or "constant progress." Tune in to learn all about it! Fri, 22 Dec 2023 06:00:00 -0000 The Epic Ecstatic Epektasis full Ben Wyatt Gregory of Nyssa, Salvation, and the Life of Moses There's no better time than now to review one of Gregory's most celebrated ideas: the notion of epektasis, or "constant progress." Tune in to learn all about it! There's no better time than now to review one of Gregory's most celebrated ideas: the notion of epektasis, or "constant progress." Tune in to learn all about it!

]]> 1138 no Episode 27 - The Reclaimed Genius: Gregory of Nyssa’s Legacy The legacy of the Cappadocians remains with us today! Listen in to hear how Gregory of Nyssa continues to inspire modern theological reflection and innovation. And also, to learn how bad Ben is at accents. Fri, 15 Dec 2023 06:00:00 -0000 The Reclaimed Genius full Ben Wyatt Gregory of Nyssa’s Legacy The legacy of the Cappadocians remains with us today! Listen in to hear how Gregory of Nyssa continues to inspire modern theological reflection and innovation. And also, to learn how bad Ben is at accents. The legacy of the Cappadocians remains with us today! Listen in to hear how Gregory of Nyssa continues to inspire modern theological reflection and innovation. And also, to learn how bad Ben is at accents.

]]> 2303 no Putting the "Logos" Back in Logic: Professor Ryan Haecker on Origen's Trinitarian Theology Time passes, centuries roll on, but some things never change. One of those things is that people always want to talk about Origen! Listen to Professor Haecker walk us through how Origen's Trinitarian theology intersects with his contemporary research in theology and logic. It turns out that logic has a theological foundation, and that theological foundation is essentially Trinitarian! Fri, 08 Dec 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Putting the "Logos" Back in Logic full Ben Wyatt Professor Ryan Haecker on Origen's Trinitarian Theology Time passes, centuries roll on, but some things never change. One of those things is that people always want to talk about Origen! Listen to Professor Haecker walk us through how Origen's Trinitarian theology intersects with his contemporary research in theology and logic. It turns out that logic has a theological foundation, and that theological foundation is essentially Trinitarian! Time passes, centuries roll on, but some things never change. One of those things is that people always want to talk about Origen! Listen to Professor Haecker walk us through how Origen's Trinitarian theology intersects with his contemporary research in theology and logic. It turns out that logic has a theological foundation, and that theological foundation is essentially Trinitarian!

]]> 3354 no Episode 26 - One Power, One God - Gregory of Nyssa’s Letter to Ablabius Get ready for your crash course in Trinitarian math! It's time to hear Gregory's full answer to the old question: just how can three persons be one God? Fri, 01 Dec 2023 06:00:00 -0000 One Power, One God full Ben Wyatt Gregory of Nyssa’s Letter to Ablabius Get ready for your crash course in Trinitarian math! It's time to hear Gregory's full answer to the old question: just how can three persons be one God? Get ready for your crash course in Trinitarian math! It's time to hear Gregory's full answer to the old question: just how can three persons be one God?

]]> 1599 no Supplemental - The Suffering God: An Interview with Professor Paul Gavrilyuk We've seen Gregory and Eunomius spar over whether God can suffer, and how. Now we turn to one of today's leading scholars of the period to explain this controversy! Professor Paul Gavrilyuk is also organizing a conference on the Council of Nicea to be held in June of 2025 in Rome. Paper submissions are open until March 1, 2024. Learn more here: https://iota-web.org/rome2025/ Fri, 24 Nov 2023 06:00:00 -0000 The Suffering God full Ben Wyatt An Interview with Professor Paul Gavrilyuk We've seen Gregory and Eunomius spar over whether God can suffer, and how. Now we turn to one of today's leading scholars of the period to explain this controversy! Professor Paul Gavrilyuk is also organizing a conference on the Council of Nicea to be held in June of 2025 in Rome. Paper submissions are open until March 1, 2024. Learn more here: https://iota-web.org/rome2025/ We've seen Gregory and Eunomius spar over whether God can suffer, and how. Now we turn to one of today's leading scholars of the period to explain this controversy!


Professor Paul Gavrilyuk is also organizing a conference on the Council of Nicea to be held in June of 2025 in Rome. Paper submissions are open until March 1, 2024. Learn more here: https://iota-web.org/rome2025/

]]> 3271 no Episode 25 - Nobody Refutes My Brother But Me: Gregory’s Against Eunomius The heretical refutations continue! Can Gregory carry on his brother's legacy? Find out in this week's episode! Fri, 17 Nov 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Nobody Refutes My Brother But Me full Ben Wyatt Gregory’s Against Eunomius The heretical refutations continue! Can Gregory carry on his brother's legacy? Find out in this week's episode! The heretical refutations continue! Can Gregory carry on his brother's legacy? Find out in this week's episode!

]]> 2443 no Supplemental: Nuns, Crosses, and Proto-Feminists, Oh My! - Gregory’s Life of Macrina As if two brilliant brothers weren't enough, it's time to meet a THIRD exemplary member of the family: Macrina the Younger. She was a beloved sister, a learned teacher, and the inspiration for several of Gregory's most celebrated works. Learn all about her in this week's episode! Fri, 10 Nov 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Nuns, Crosses, and Proto-Feminists, Oh My! full Ben Wyatt Gregory’s Life of Macrina As if two brilliant brothers weren't enough, it's time to meet a THIRD exemplary member of the family: Macrina the Younger. She was a beloved sister, a learned teacher, and the inspiration for several of Gregory's most celebrated works. Learn all about her in this week's episode! As if two brilliant brothers weren't enough, it's time to meet a THIRD exemplary member of the family: Macrina the Younger. She was a beloved sister, a learned teacher, and the inspiration for several of Gregory's most celebrated works. Learn all about her in this week's episode!

]]> 1115 no Episode 24: The Younger Brilliant Brother - Who is Gregory of Nyssa? It's time for our second Cappadocian to enter the scene! Get ready to meet Gregory of Nyssa: theologian par excellence, married bishop(!), and little brother extraordinaire. Fri, 03 Nov 2023 05:00:00 -0000 The Younger Brilliant Brother full Ben Wyatt Who is Gregory of Nyssa? It's time for our second Cappadocian to enter the scene! Get ready to meet Gregory of Nyssa: theologian par excellence, married bishop(!), and little brother extraordinaire. It's time for our second Cappadocian to enter the scene! Get ready to meet Gregory of Nyssa: theologian par excellence, married bishop(!), and little brother extraordinaire.

]]> 1636 no Supplemental - Perfecting the Praises: The Liturgy of St. Basil In which we take a peek at Basil's *other* contribution to church history: the liturgy that bears his name! Fri, 27 Oct 2023 05:00:00 -0000 Perfecting the Praises full Ben Wyatt The Liturgy of St. Basil In which we take a peek at Basil's *other* contribution to church history: the liturgy that bears his name! In which we take a peek at Basil's *other* contribution to church history: the liturgy that bears his name!

]]> 757 no Episode 23: The Power of Prepositions - Basil's On the Holy Spirit In which the neglected Third Person of the Trinity finally gets some time in the spotlight! Come hear about Basil's mature thought on the Holy Spirit. Fri, 20 Oct 2023 05:00:00 -0000 The Power of Prepositions full Ben Wyatt Basil's On the Holy Spirit In which the neglected Third Person of the Trinity finally gets some time in the spotlight! Come hear about Basil's mature thought on the Holy Spirit. In which the neglected Third Person of the Trinity finally gets some time in the spotlight! Come hear about Basil's mature thought on the Holy Spirit.

]]> 2299 no Supplemental - The Ordering of Monks: Basil's Long Rule In which we learn how Basil thought a monk should live, think, eat - and get woken up in the middle of the night! Fri, 13 Oct 2023 05:00:00 -0000 The Ordering of Monks full Ben Wyatt Basil's Long Rule In which we learn how Basil thought a monk should live, think, eat - and get woken up in the middle of the night! In which we learn how Basil thought a monk should live, think, eat - and get woken up in the middle of the night!

]]> 1499 no Episode 22 - What’s in a Name?: Basil Against Eunomius It's Basil against the final boss of the heteroousians. But who will come out on top in the rhetorical fracas? Listen to find out! Fri, 06 Oct 2023 05:00:00 -0000 What's in a Name? full Ben Wyatt Basil against Eunomius It's Basil against the final boss of the heteroousians. But who will come out on top in the rhetorical fracas? Listen to find out! It's Basil against the final boss of the heteroousians. But who will come out on top in the rhetorical fracas? Listen to find out!

]]> 2181 no Supplemental - Ever Since the World Began: Basil’s Hexameron and the Best Worst Sermon Ever Preached Lions, tigers, and bears...and a Church Father messing up a sermon? Fri, 29 Sep 2023 05:00:00 -0000 Ever Since the World Began full Ben Wyatt Basil’s Hexameron and the Best Worst Sermon Ever Preached Lions, tigers, and bears...and a Church Father messing up a sermon? Lions, tigers, and bears...and a Church Father messing up a sermon?

]]> 1153 no Supplemental - Alms for the Poor: Basil the Great on Social Justice Ever wanted to hear an ancient sermon? Now's your chance! Join Ben for this exploration of one of Basil's most celebrated sermons, titled "To the Rich." Fri, 22 Sep 2023 05:00:00 -0000 Alms for the Poor full Ben Wyatt Basil the Great on Social Justice Ever wanted to hear an ancient sermon? Now's your chance! Join Ben for this exploration of one of Basil's most celebrated sermons, titled "To the Rich." Ever wanted to hear an ancient sermon? Now's your chance! Join Ben for this exploration of one of Basil's most celebrated sermons, titled "To the Rich."

]]> 2712 no Episode 21 -Great Saint, Wannabe Monk, and Peer Pressurer Extraordinare: Who is Basil the Great? In which the first of the Cappadocian Fathers makes his debut on the world stage. What will he do to break the impasse of our long-running debate? Fri, 15 Sep 2023 05:00:00 -0000 Great Saint, Wannabe Monk, and Peer Pressurer Extraordinaire full Ben Wyatt Who is Basil the Great? In which the first of the Cappadocian Fathers makes his debut on the world stage. What will he do to break the impasse of our long-running debate? In which the first of the Cappadocian Fathers makes his debut on the world stage. What will he do to break the impasse of our long-running debate?

]]> 1757 no Supplemental - The Making of a Monk: Athanasius's The Life of Antony In which we examine all the different roles a fourth century monk could play: saint, wonder worker, spiritual director, superhero, and...skincare guru? Fri, 08 Sep 2023 05:00:00 -0000 The Making of a Monk full Ben Wyatt Athanasius's The Life of Antony In which we examine all the different roles a fourth century monk could play: saint, wonder worker, spiritual director, superhero, and...skincare guru? In which we examine all the different roles a fourth century monk could play: saint, wonder worker, spiritual director, superhero, and...skincare guru?

]]> 1881 no Episode 20: The Next Generation - Rise of the Cappadocians In which a new generation takes its place on world history...and Ben's enthusiasm for certain sci-fi fandoms prompts our first-ever double sponsorship! Fri, 01 Sep 2023 05:00:00 -0000 The Next Generation full Ben Wyatt Rise of the Cappadocians In which a new generation takes its place on world history...and Ben's enthusiasm for certain sci-fi fandoms prompts our first-ever double sponsorship! In which a new generation takes its place on world history...and Ben's enthusiasm for certain sci-fi fandoms prompts our first-ever double sponsorship!

]]> 1520 no Episode 19 - The Nefarious Nerd: Who is Julian the Apostate? It wouldn't be the Road to Nicea without a few U-turns. It's time to meet one of the biggest. Tune in to learn about Julian the Apostate: emperor, philosopher, idealist, nerd. Fri, 18 Aug 2023 05:00:00 -0000 The Nefarious Nerd full Ben Wyatt Who is Julian the Apostate? It wouldn't be the Road to Nicea without a few U-turns. It's time to meet one of the biggest. Tune in to learn about Julian the Apostate: emperor, philosopher, idealist, nerd. It wouldn't be the Road to Nicea without a few U-turns. It's time to meet one of the biggest. Tune in to learn about Julian the Apostate: emperor, philosopher, idealist, nerd.

]]> 1993 no Supplemental - The Senior Convener: Ossius of Cordoba It's time for a little diversion as we meet the man who was there for all of Nicea's history - and we mean ALL of it. Fri, 11 Aug 2023 05:00:00 -0000 The Senior Convener full Ben Wyatt Ossius of Cordoba It's time for a little diversion as we meet the man who was there for all of Nicea's history - and we mean ALL of it. It's time for a little diversion as we meet the man who was there for all of Nicea's history - and we mean ALL of it.

]]> 1012 no Episode 18 - The Finger On the Scale: Constantius, the Homoian Triumph, and the Blasphemy of Sirmium In which the anti-Nicene forces seem to have the upper hand...and the Hawley-Smoot Tariff of ancient history is revealed. Fri, 04 Aug 2023 05:00:00 -0000 The Finger On the Scale full Ben Wyatt Constantius, the Homoian Triumph, and the Blasphemy of Sirmium In which the anti-Nicene forces seem to have the upper hand...and the Hawley-Smoot Tariff of ancient history is revealed. In which the anti-Nicene forces seem to have the upper hand...and the Hawley-Smoot Tariff of ancient history is revealed.

]]> 2245 no Supplemental - Canon Law and Order: The Crimes of Athanasius For legal purposes, this episode is a joke. Fri, 28 Jul 2023 05:00:00 -0000 Canon Law and Order full Ben Wyatt The Crimes of Athanasius For legal purposes, this episode is a joke. For legal purposes, this episode is a joke.

]]> 1507 no Episode 17 - The Era of Too Many Theologies: Matters of Substance from 350 to 360 As the empire changes, the theologies of the Church change too. Just what were mid-fourth-century theologians making of Nicea's odd "homoousios" language? Fri, 21 Jul 2023 05:00:00 -0000 The Era of Too Many Theologies full Ben Wyatt Matters of Substance from 350 to 360 As the empire changes, the theologies of the Church change too. Just what were mid-fourth-century theologians making of Nicea's odd "homoousios" language? As the empire changes, the theologies of the Church change too. Just what were mid-fourth-century theologians making of Nicea's odd "homoousios" language?

]]> 2149 no Supplemental - The Renowned Rhetor: Lactantius and the Christian-Imperial Narrative In which we take a look at another member of the Constantinian court: Lactantius, tutor to Crispus and writer of treatises. What does he have to tell us about the Great Persecution and its aftermath? Fri, 14 Jul 2023 05:00:00 -0000 The Renowned Rhetor full Ben Wyatt Lactantius and the Christian-Imperial Narrative In which we take a look at another member of the Constantinian court: Lactantius, tutor to Crispus and writer of treatises. What does he have to tell us about the Great Persecution and its aftermath? In which we take a look at another member of the Constantinian court: Lactantius, tutor to Crispus and writer of treatises. What does he have to tell us about the Great Persecution and its aftermath?

]]> 1647 no Episode 16 - The Accidental Ruler of It All: Who is Constantius II? Persecutor, lucky son, mild-mannered emperor, forgotten bureaucrat. He has so many descriptors. But who really is Constantius II? Fri, 07 Jul 2023 05:00:00 -0000 The Accidental Ruler of It All full Ben Wyatt Who is Constantius II? Persecutor, lucky son, mild-mannered emperor, forgotten bureaucrat. He has so many descriptors. But who really is Constantius II? Persecutor, lucky son, mild-mannered emperor, forgotten bureaucrat. He has so many descriptors. But who really is Constantius II?

]]> 1794 no Episode 15 - The Era of Too Many Creeds: Controversy and Conflagration, 341 - 350 Well yes, we've had one creed, but what about a second creed? And a third, and a fourth, and... Fri, 16 Jun 2023 05:00:00 -0000 The Era of Too Many Creeds full Ben Wyatt Controversy and Conflagration, 341 - 350 Well yes, we've had one creed, but what about a second creed? And a third, and a fourth, and... Well yes, we've had one creed, but what about a second creed? And a third, and a fourth, and...

]]> 2052 no Episode 14: Theology is a Riot - Changing Faces and Changing Alliances, 337 - 341 In which old faces pass away, new leaders emerge, and theology gets riotously important. Fri, 02 Jun 2023 05:00:00 -0000 Theology is a Riot full Ben Wyatt Changing Faces and Changing Alliances, 337 - 341 In which old faces pass away, new leaders emerge, and theology gets riotously important. In which old faces pass away, new leaders emerge, and theology gets riotously important.

]]> 1879 no Episode 13 - The Birth of a Movement: Athanasius and the Orations Against the Arians You've met Theological Treatise Athanasius, now meet Polemical Athanasius: 50% less relaxed theologizing, 200% more snark. Fri, 19 May 2023 05:00:00 -0000 The Birth of a Movement full Ben Wyatt Athanasius and the Orations Against the Arians You've met Theological Treatise Athanasius, now meet Polemical Athanasius: 50% less relaxed theologizing, 200% more snark. You've met Theological Treatise Athanasius, now meet Polemical Athanasius: 50% less relaxed theologizing, 200% more snark.

]]> 2184 no Episode 12 - Let's Get Down to Theologizing: Athanasius's On the Incarnation In which we explore one of the greatest masterpieces of Nicene literature - and of all Christian literature! Fri, 05 May 2023 05:00:00 -0000 Let's Get Down to Theologizing full Ben Wyatt Athanasius's On the Incarnation In which we explore one of the greatest masterpieces of Nicene literature - and of all Christian literature! In which we explore one of the greatest masterpieces of Nicene literature - and of all Christian literature!

]]> 1999 Episode 11 - The Eusebii Strike Back: Confusion and Pushback in the Post-Nicene Empire, 325 - 337 In which we learn just how far the Nicene controversy is from being resolved. Fri, 21 Apr 2023 05:00:00 -0000 The Eusebii Strike Back full Ben Wyatt Confusion and Pushback in the Post-Nicene Empire, 325 - 337 In which we learn just how far the Nicene controversy is from being resolved. In which we learn just how far the Nicene controversy is from being resolved.

]]> 2449 no Episode 10 - Let's Get Ready to Rumble: The Council of Nicea In which Constantine and the bishops finally arrive at the end of the long and winding road to Nicea...or so it seems. Fri, 07 Apr 2023 05:00:00 -0000 Let's Get Ready to Rumble full Ben Wyatt The Council of Nicea In which Constantine and the bishops finally arrive at the end of the long and winding road to Nicea...or so it seems. In which Constantine and the bishops finally arrive at the end of the long and winding road to Nicea...or so it seems.

]]> 1736 no Supplemental - To the Victor Go the Speeches: Eusebius and the Oration in Praise of Constantine A spring surprise in which we delve into the messy connections between religion, politics, and history in Constantine's empire. Fri, 31 Mar 2023 05:00:00 -0000 To the Victor Go the Speeches full Ben Wyatt Eusebius and the Oration in Praise of Constantine A spring surprise in which we delve into the messy connections between religion, politics, and history in Constantine's empire. A spring surprise in which we delve into the messy connections between religion, politics, and history in Constantine's empire.

]]> 2316 no Episode 9 - It's Hip to be Saintly: Constantine and the Bishops In which Constantine attempts to unite the church as he has united the Empire - with mixed success. Music is from Beethoven's Piano Sonata no. 14 in C-sharp minor 'Moonlight Sonata', Op. 27 no. 2. Jokes are from Ben's demented brain. Sat, 18 Mar 2023 03:19:42 -0000 It's Hip to be Saintly full Ben Wyatt Constantine and the Bishops In which Constantine attempts to unite the church as he has united the Empire - with mixed success. Music is from Beethoven's Piano Sonata no. 14 in C-sharp minor 'Moonlight Sonata', Op. 27 no. 2. Jokes are from Ben's demented brain. In which Constantine attempts to unite the church as he has united the Empire - with mixed success.

Music is from Beethoven's Piano Sonata no. 14 in C-sharp minor 'Moonlight Sonata', Op. 27 no. 2. Jokes are from Ben's demented brain.


]]> 1987 no Supplemental - The Godfather God-Father: Constantine and the Murders of Crispin and Fausta In which we take a look at one of the grisliest - and most puzzling - scenes in Constantine's biography: the executions of his wife and firstborn son. Fri, 10 Mar 2023 06:00:00 -0000 The Godfather God-Father full Ben Wyatt Constantine and the Murders of Crispin and Fausta In which we take a look at one of the grisliest - and most puzzling - scenes in Constantine's biography: the executions of his wife and firstborn son. In which we take a look at one of the grisliest - and most puzzling - scenes in Constantine's biography: the executions of his wife and firstborn son.

]]> 560 no Episode 8 - The 800 Pound Gorilla: Who is Constantine the Great? In which we at last meet the Emperor Constantine himself: cunning, ruthless, and VERY tired. Fri, 03 Mar 2023 06:00:00 -0000 The 800 Pound Gorilla full Ben Wyatt Who is Constantine the Great? In which we at last meet the Emperor Constantine himself: cunning, ruthless, and VERY tired. In which we at last meet the Emperor Constantine himself: cunning, ruthless, and VERY tired.

]]> 2030 no Supplemental - The Lost Arian Sea Shanties And now, it's time for Silly Songs with Ben, the part of the show where Ben makes up silly songs. For legal purposes, this episode is a joke. We regret nothing. Fri, 24 Feb 2023 04:56:47 -0000 The Lost Arian Sea Shanties full Ben Wyatt And now, it's time for Silly Songs with Ben, the part of the show where Ben makes up silly songs. For legal purposes, this episode is a joke. We regret nothing. And now, it's time for Silly Songs with Ben, the part of the show where Ben makes up silly songs.

For legal purposes, this episode is a joke.

We regret nothing.

]]> 918 no Episode 7 - Arch-heretic, Favored Son, Rogue Priest: Who is Arius of Alexandria? The arch-heretic himself steps onto the world stage in this episode! Learn more about what drove Arius - and how his theological positions may shock you. Fri, 17 Feb 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Arch-heretic, Favored Son, Rogue Priest full Ben Wyatt Who is Arius of Alexandria? The arch-heretic himself steps onto the world stage in this episode! Learn more about what drove Arius - and how his theological positions may shock you. The arch-heretic himself steps onto the world stage in this episode! Learn more about what drove Arius - and how his theological positions may shock you.

]]> 2169 no Episode 6 - Maintaining the Martyr’s Faith: Trinitarian Thought at the Dawn of the Fourth Century The controversies about the Trinity continue into the fourth century as our persecuted Christians take up, with renewed vigor, the question of just exactly what Jesus is. Fri, 03 Feb 2023 05:00:00 -0000 Maintaining the Martyr’s Faith full Ben Wyatt Trinitarian Thought at the Dawn of the Fourth Century The controversies about the Trinity continue into the fourth century as our persecuted Christians take up, with renewed vigor, the question of just exactly what Jesus is. The controversies about the Trinity continue into the fourth century as our persecuted Christians take up, with renewed vigor, the question of just exactly what Jesus is.

]]> 2093 no Episode 5 - Not a Chill Emperor: Diocletian and the Transformation of the Roman Empire It's time to meet the man who will transform the chaotic third century into the merely turbulent fourth: Diocletian. Fri, 20 Jan 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Not a Chill Emperor full Ben Wyatt Diocletian and the Transformation of the Roman Empire It's time to meet the man who will transform the chaotic third century into the merely turbulent fourth: Diocletian. It's time to meet the man who will transform the chaotic third century into the merely turbulent fourth: Diocletian.

]]> 1643 no Supplemental - Interview with Andrew McGowan on Tertullian Join us for a deeper look at the crankiest old man in the Latin West with one of the premier scholars in the world today! Ben sits down with Andrew McGowan to discuss Tertullian's context, rhetoric, and insults. Fri, 13 Jan 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Interview with Andrew McGowan on Tertullian full Ben Wyatt Join us for a deeper look at the crankiest old man in the Latin West with one of the premier scholars in the world today! Ben sits down with Andrew McGowan to discuss Tertullian's context, rhetoric, and insults. Join us for a deeper look at the crankiest old man in the Latin West with one of the premier scholars in the world today! Ben sits down with Andrew McGowan to discuss Tertullian's context, rhetoric, and insults.

]]> 1777 no Episode 4 - Speaking of the Son: Third Century Attempts at Trinitarian Theology Just what is this Trinity thing all about, anyway? Hear what the third century had to say about it here! Works referenced in the episode: Origen, Commentary on John Tertullian, Against Marcion Tertullian, Against Praxeas Fri, 06 Jan 2023 06:00:00 -0000 Speaking of the Son full Ben Wyatt Third Century Attempts at Trinitarian Theology Just what is this Trinity thing all about, anyway? Hear what the third century had to say about it here! Works referenced in the episode: Origen, Commentary on John Tertullian, Against Marcion Tertullian, Against Praxeas Just what is this Trinity thing all about, anyway? Hear what the third century had to say about it here!


Works referenced in the episode:

Origen, Commentary on John

Tertullian, Against Marcion

Tertullian, Against Praxeas

]]> 2147 no Supplemental - Orb Bodies for Everyone: The Oddities of Origen In which, before taking a Serious Historical Look at Origen, we pause to consider his oddest and most delightful speculations. The icon referenced in the episode is available here: https://i0.wp.com/publicorthodoxy.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/origenteaching.jpeg?resize=620%2C448&ssl=1 Fri, 23 Dec 2022 06:00:00 -0000 Orb Bodies for Everyone full Ben Wyatt The Oddities of Origen In which, before taking a Serious Historical Look at Origen, we pause to consider his oddest and most delightful speculations. The icon referenced in the episode is available here: https://i0.wp.com/publicorthodoxy.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/origenteaching.jpeg?resize=620%2C448&ssl=1 In which, before taking a Serious Historical Look at Origen, we pause to consider his oddest and most delightful speculations.


The icon referenced in the episode is available here:

https://i0.wp.com/publicorthodoxy.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/origenteaching.jpeg?resize=620%2C448&ssl=1

]]> 1023 Supplemental - The Ho Ho Haymaker, or, I Saw Heretics Getting Punched by Santa Claus A new player has entered the crowded field of the Nicene Controversy: one with a jolly laugh, presents for everyone, and hectic Christmas Eve schedule. It's time to learn what Santa Claus has to do with the Creed. Fri, 23 Dec 2022 06:00:00 -0000 The Ho Ho Haymaker, or, I Saw Heretics Getting Punched by Santa Claus full Ben Wyatt A new player has entered the crowded field of the Nicene Controversy: one with a jolly laugh, presents for everyone, and hectic Christmas Eve schedule. It's time to learn what Santa Claus has to do with the Creed. A new player has entered the crowded field of the Nicene Controversy: one with a jolly laugh, presents for everyone, and hectic Christmas Eve schedule. It's time to learn what Santa Claus has to do with the Creed.

]]> 892 no Episode 3 - Respect My Authority: Alternatives to Episcopal Rule In which, after meeting the bishops, we meet all the people the bishops warned us about: monks, martyrs, and the single greatest genius in the first millennium of Christianity. Fri, 16 Dec 2022 06:00:00 -0000 Respect My Authority full Ben Wyatt Alternatives to Episcopal Rule In which, after meeting the bishops, we meet all the people the bishops warned us about: monks, martyrs, and the single greatest genius in the first millennium of Christianity. In which, after meeting the bishops, we meet all the people the bishops warned us about: monks, martyrs, and the single greatest genius in the first millennium of Christianity.

]]> 2204 no Supplemental - The Heretics That Never Were: Gnosticism in Early Christianity Wisdom, demigods, and discomfort with basic bodily functions, oh my! Join us for an exploration of the "Gnostics" - the first recorded heretical group in Christian history. Fri, 09 Dec 2022 06:00:00 -0000 The Heretics That Never Were full Ben Wyatt Gnosticism in Early Christianity Wisdom, demigods, and discomfort with basic bodily functions, oh my! Join us for an exploration of the "Gnostics" - the first recorded heretical group in Christian history. Wisdom, demigods, and discomfort with basic bodily functions, oh my! Join us for an exploration of the "Gnostics" - the first recorded heretical group in Christian history.

]]> 1414 no Episode 2 - Exclusive and Flourishing: The Church of the Third Century In which third century Christians experience a massive rise in membership during Rome's troubled century. Fri, 02 Dec 2022 06:00:00 -0000 Exclusive and Flourishing full Ben Wyatt The Church of the Third Century In which third century Christians experience a massive rise in membership during Rome's troubled century. In which third century Christians experience a massive rise in membership during Rome's troubled century.

]]> 2317 no Episode 1 - Castrati, Chaos, and Cow Sacrifices: The Third-Century Roman Empire In which we look at the turbulent fourth century through the lens of the chaotic third century: a time when emperors came and went with the seasonal fashions, castrati priests paraded up and down the capital, and patriotism meant having a LOT of steak dinners. Fri, 18 Nov 2022 05:00:00 -0000 Castrati, Chaos, and Cow Sacrifices full Ben Wyatt The Third-Century Roman Empire In which we look at the turbulent fourth century through the lens of the chaotic third century: a time when emperors came and went with the seasonal fashions, castrati priests paraded up and down the capital, and patriotism meant having a LOT of steak dinners. In which we look at the turbulent fourth century through the lens of the chaotic third century: a time when emperors came and went with the seasonal fashions, castrati priests paraded up and down the capital, and patriotism meant having a LOT of steak dinners.

]]> 2426 no Introduction: The Long Reach of Antiquity Christ, controversies, and that creed you might hear on Sunday mornings. We begin our journey towards Nicea! Sat, 12 Nov 2022 04:53:00 -0000 Introduction full 1 1 Ben Wyatt The long reach of antiquity Christ, controversies, and that creed you might hear on Sunday mornings. We begin our journey towards Nicea! Christ, controversies, and that creed you might hear on Sunday mornings. We begin our journey towards Nicea!

]]> 933 no