Church of the Brethren
Community of Christ
Affirms

Fully human and divine; Chalcedonian Christology; eternal Son incarnate for salvation

The Brethren in Christ affirm Chalcedonian Christology: Jesus Christ is fully human and fully divine, one person in two natures (divine and human) without confusion, separation, or division. This is the classical Christian position affirmed in the Definition of Chalcedon (451 AD).

Jesus is the eternal Son of God who became incarnate in human flesh for our salvation. His humanity was real and complete (except without sin), including a true human body, mind, and will, united without confusion with His divine nature. As God the Son, He is coequal with the Father in all divine attributes and works.

The Brethren in Christ understand Christ as the Mediator between God and humanity. His incarnation, life, death, and resurrection are redemptive acts that accomplish our reconciliation with God. Christ's teachings, particularly the Sermon on the Mount, are authoritative guides for Christian ethics and peacemaking.

Key Distinctions

Natures formula:
fully human, fully divine; without confusion or separation
Christological emphasis:
redemption and revelation

Scripture References

Sources

  • Council of Chalcedon (451 AD)
  • Brethren in Christ confessional statements
  • BIC hymnody and theological literature