Theodotus of Byzantium

Theodotus of Byzantium (also known as Theodotus the Tanner and Theodotus the Shoemaker; flourished late 2nd century) was an early Christian writer from Byzantium, one of several named Theodotus whose writings were condemned as heresy in the early church.

Theodotus claimed that Jesus was born of the Virgin Mary and the Holy Spirit as a mortal man, and though later "adopted" by God upon baptism (that is to say, he became the Christ), was not himself God until after his resurrection.

This doctrine, sometimes called "Dynamic Monarchianism" or "Adoptionism", was declared heretical by Pope Victor I, and Theodotus was excommunicated.

Sources

• Lampe P, Johnson MD. Steinhauser M. (trans.) From Paul to Valentinus: Christians at Rome in the First Two Centuries Published by Fortress Press, 2003 Chapter 33: The Theodotians p. 344-9 ISBN 0800627024, 9780800627027

External links

• Excerpts of Theodotus at EarlyChristianWritings.com