Monophysitism
In one sentence
A broad label for models speaking of one nature of Christ after the incarnation; distinct historical positions must be differentiated.
In simple terms
A broad label for Christological models that speak of one nature of Christ after the incarnation; specific versions differ greatly.
Biblical truth
Scripture presents Christ as truly divine and truly human and attributes both sets of qualities to the one Christ.
Key Scriptures
John 1:14 · Phil. 2:6–8 · Col. 2:9 · Heb. 2:14–18 · Heb. 4:15
Example
An extreme version may treat humanity as absorbed into divinity; more nuanced Oriental Orthodox formulas do not affirm this.
Who holds it
Historically the term was applied to various anti-Chalcedonian positions, but it should not automatically be applied to Miaphysite churches today.
Not to be confused with
Not to be confused with Miaphysitism: Oriental Orthodox traditions stress that they neither mix nor destroy Christ’s humanity.
History
The term became central in controversies following the Council of Chalcedon in 451.
Main point of debate
The dispute concerns how to understand “one” and “two” natures after the incarnation and whether terminological differences imply substantive differences in faith.