Lecture Notes on the Filioque Argument

Introduction

• Recent resurgence of an argument against the filioque.
• Critique by Ubie Petris against Michael Lofton, a nuanced YouTuber.
• Discussion includes Orthodox and Catholic perspectives.

Background

• Catholic authors avoid discussing Cappadocian Fathers, St. Cyril, St. Maximus.
• Common Catholic argument: If Latin Fathers taught filioque, then it's true.
• Orthodox typically concede Latin Fathers erred on filioque.

Orthodox Perspective

• Orthodox emphasize Cappadocian supremacy in Trinitarian theology.
• Argument against filioque based on differing teachings East vs. West.
• Two major Orthodox responses:
  • Attack major premise (Latin Fathers' authority).
  • Attack minor premise (Latin Fathers' teaching).

Discussion on Latin Fathers

• Latin Fathers’ teaching includes Augustine, Fulgentius on filioque.
• Orthodox contend Latin Fathers didn’t teach Florentine filioque.
• Praise for Latin Fathers in Constantinople & Orthodox liturgy.

The Letter to Marinus by Maximus the Confessor

• Cited by Orthodox to avoid direct engagement with Latin Fathers.
• Disagreement on interpretation of 'cause' in reference to the Spirit.
• Implications for Orthodox if Latin Fathers taught the filioque:
  • Challenge to Orthodox interpretation.
  • Possible contradiction in Orthodox position.

Arguments in Favor of Latin Filioque

• Analysis of pseudo-Athanasian Creed.
• Argument for hypostatic procession in Latin tradition.
• Early usage and acceptance of Athanasian Creed in the West.

Conclusion

• Importance of directly engaging with texts, not relying on narratives.
• Need for careful reading and exegesis of texts from Latin Fathers.
• Emphasis on demanding rigorous textual analysis from apologists.

Key Takeaways

• Latin Fathers, through careful reading, show alignment with Florentine filioque.
• Orthodox narrative challenged by textual evidence.
• Encouragement for deeper study and understanding of historical theological texts.