ABSTRACT
Theodoret’s theological thinking was deeply rooted in the tradition of ideas both within and outside the Antiochene school of thought. His doctrine on the Trinity represents the adoption and further elaboration of the Neo-Nicene refinements of the Cappadocian fathers. His Christology presents us with a ‘two natures – One Person’ model within which both elements (i.e. the natures and the Person) are important and should not be played off against each other. It is an inherited rather than invented model of Christ, based on a vivid soteriology permeated by an authentic pastoral concern, sharply focused upon God’s justice and mercy shown to us by the fully divine and human Saviour’s life, teaching and sacrifice. The ascription of his deeds to us for our justification is carried out attributively, through his human nature, which is the same as ours, sin excepted. He does not only save us from damnation, but also strengthens our belief that, since he defeated sin, Satan and death through his manhood, they no longer rule over us. Our duty, then, is to live our life accordingly, following ‘the trodden path of the pious’.
