Definition: Monothelitism is the belief that Jesus Christ has two natures (divine and human) but only one will.
Historical Context:
- Origin: Proposed in the 7th century to unite Chalcedonian and non-Chalcedonian Christians.
- Proponents: Supported by Emperor Heraclius and Patriarch Sergius I of Constantinople.
- Opposition: Opposed by figures like Maximus the Confessor, who argued for two wills (divine and human).
Theological Implications:
- Orthodox Position: The Third Council of Constantinople (681) affirmed Dyothelitism, the belief in two wills corresponding to Christ’s two natures.
- Heresy: Monothelitism was condemned as it was seen to undermine the full humanity of Christ.
Significance:
- Council of Constantinople III: The council’s condemnation clarified that Christ has both a divine will and a human will, reinforcing the doctrine established by the Council of Chalcedon.
In summary, Monothelitism was an attempt to reconcile different Christological views but was ultimately rejected in favor of the belief that Christ has both a divine and a human will.