Term
Caesaropapism
The doctrine and practice of a secular ruler exercising authority over the church's spiritual life and teaching, most commonly associated with Eastern Orthodoxy.
Filed underEcclesiologyChurch History
Definition
The doctrine and practice of the secular ruler's exercising authority in the church, even in its spiritual life and teaching. It is most commonly, though not exclusively, associated with Eastern Orthodox history.
Connections
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Sources
- 1.Alan Richardson and John Bowden The Westminster Dictionary of Christian Theology. (Philadelphia: Westminster Press, 1983). 103Original citation: Richardson, Alan, and John Bowden. The Westminster Dictionary of Christian Theology. Philadelphia: Westminster Press, 1983, 103.
Last revised August 14, 2026