Experiential, secret knowledge of the divine, as opposed to institutional faith. See: The Gnostic Mirror
Original Sin
The belief that humans are born with a "corruption of nature" inherited from Adam. Pelagius argued that sin is not inherited but imitated. See: The Conflict of Will
Patronage
The financial and political support provided by wealthy elites (like Demetrias) to religious leaders. See: The Sacred Economy
Soteriology
The study of salvation—specifically whether it is achieved through human effort (Pelagianism) or divine grace (Augustinianism). See: The Conflict of Will
Synod
An assembly of church leaders to decide on an issue of doctrine or administration. Often used as a tool for political consolidation. See: The Trial of Pelagius
Sovereignty
The authority of a state or church to govern itself. The "Easter Controversy" was essentially a battle over who held sovereignty over the calendar. See: The Easter Controversy
Adoptionism
The belief that Jesus was born human and became divine through "adoption" by God, typically at his baptism. See: Competing Christologies
Docetism
The belief that Jesus' physical body was an illusion, as matter was seen as inherently corrupt. See: Competing Christologies
Marcionism
A dualistic movement that rejected the Old Testament and the "Demiurge" god, proposing a separate God of Love. See: Competing Christologies
Ebionites
A Jewish-Christian sect that emphasized the Mosaic Law and viewed Jesus as a human prophet. See: Competing Christologies