What was the main outcome of the Council of Nicaea led by Constantine?

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Study for the Chapell and Meeks Licensure and Ordination Test. Access flashcards and multiple-choice questions with hints and explanations. Prepare for success!

The main outcome of the Council of Nicaea, which was convened by Emperor Constantine in 325 AD, was to effectively address the theological and administrative issues facing the Christian church at that time. One significant result of this council was the establishment of a unified Christian doctrine, particularly regarding the nature of Christ and his relationship to God the Father, which was outlined in the Nicene Creed.

While the Council of Nicaea did not explicitly end the persecution of Christians in immediate terms, it marked a pivotal moment in which Christianity gained imperial acceptance and support. Prior to this council, Christians faced significant persecution, often at the hands of Roman authorities. This council and the subsequent endorsement of Christianity by Constantine played a significant role in reducing hostility and creating an environment where Christianity could flourish. Therefore, one can say that it contributed to the end of persecution by legitimizing the faith and shifting the cultural landscape of the Roman Empire toward acceptance rather than rejection.

Other options do not accurately reflect the historical context: a military alliance was not a focus of the council, nor were crusader policies or pagan worship promoted as outcomes. In fact, the council was a firm step away from pagan practices as it sought to clarify and centralize Christian beliefs.

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