Amphilochius of Iconium

About Amphilochius of Iconium

Amphilochius was Bishop of Iconium and a defender of Nicene orthodoxy against Arianism. A cousin of Gregory of Nazianzus, Amphilochius practiced law before becoming a hermit, then bishop around 373. He worked closely with Basil the Great in defending the Trinity and the divinity of the Holy Spirit. At the Council of Constantinople (381), Amphilochius helped secure orthodox victory over Arianism. He wrote theological works, biblical commentaries, and letters addressing doctrinal controversies. Amphilochius also influenced Emperor Theodosius to enforce anti-Arian legislation. Famous for his boldness, he once deliberately showed disrespect to the emperor's son to illustrate how God feels about disrespect shown to His Son. He combined pastoral care, theological precision, and political savvy in defense of orthodoxy. Venerated as a Church Father in the Eastern Church.