The dual nature of Christ has been the center of much debate in historic Christology, particularly over the articulation of the two natures in the one person of Jesus. The Chalcedonian Definition has served as the bedrock for the later development of Christological doctrine. This Definition states, “acknowledge in two natures, incofusedly, unchangeable, indivisibly, inseparably…” However, the claim of “no confusion” has created questions concerning pre-Chalcedonian theologians, as they often use mixture/interpretation/mingling language. This paper develops an articulation of Christological language pre-Chalcedon concerning the two natures. If the Definition seems to forbid any language of mixture, interpenetration or mingling then the Fathers before 451 would need to be titled as Christological heretics. However, doing so would seem irresponsible as their Christological writing has never been under question even though it can seem to stand in opposition to the Definition. Therefore, it is worth analyzing their writing as to better understand their theological argument.
First, the paper does a brief historical survey and an exhibition of various writings that use some form of “mixture” language regarding the two natures. This is to showcase the frequency and commonality in such language. Second, there is a construction of the philosophical background for the theologians in question. This involves evaluations of various philosophical schools that would inform the language of the Fathers. Third, different tools and clarifications are brought to the surface. This is done by consulting post-Chalcedonian theologians (who are still in the Cappadocian tradition and the same string of language), instrument language, and particular partitive exegesis. Fourth, and finally, the soteriological implications, from the original authors, are brought to light concerning this language. The choice of language is not without good reason, as their Christology and Soteriology are, in distinct ways, woven together. As such this paper is a faithful ressourcement of the Cappadocian fathers and their writing about the dual natures.