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Cardinal John Henry Newman's historical examination of Arianism - the belief that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, and thus distinct and subordinate to God - is a superbly detailed account of this early Christian movement.

Arius, a priest originating from North Africa, was the founder of the Arian belief system. It was through the work of Arius that many converted to Christianity. During the era, Egypt and much of northern Africa remained under the control of pre-Christian Rome; belief was therefore dangerous, with many persecuted and put to death for following the Christian creed.

This book discusses the Arian movement after its initial establishment; details of its practices, organization and churches occupy the first part. The Fourth Century AD was a time of upheaval and reform in the Christian faith, with differing groups opposed to one another. Arius found himself denounced at the First Council of Nicaea, and the beliefs he promoted were declared heresy - the Ante-Nicene church accordingly taught alternate doctrines.

While still alive, Arius was cleared of his crimes against the faith - it was Arian priests that oversaw the historic baptism of Roman Emperor Constantine. Yet Arius was again accused of heretical beliefs posthumously. After this renewed declaration, internecine conflicts between Christian believers and those deemed heretical continued for many centuries.

Today, the Arian beliefs concerning Christ are considered to be obsolete and has been formally declared a heresy by many major denominations of Christianity. However, John Henry Newman correctly surmised that study of the Arians would bear fruit - thus, this book offers great historical insight into both the Arians and the politics of the early Christian church.

This edition contains the original tables, notes and appendices added by Newman, allowing the reader the fullest comprehension of his investigations.

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