What did monothelitism teach about Christ's will?
Monothelitism was a 7th-century theological doctrine that taught that Christ possessed only one will (thelēma) and one operation (energeia), despite existing in two distinct natures—divine and human.123
Proponents of this view, known as Monothelites, sought to emphasize the unity of Christ’s person while remaining consistent with the established doctrine of his two natures. The movement was initially encouraged by Byzantine Emperor Heraclius as a means to reconcile the church with Monophysites in Egypt and Syria.12
However, the doctrine faced significant opposition, particularly from those who argued that the will is a property of nature; therefore, if Christ has two natures, he must possess two wills. This position, known as Dyothelitism, eventually prevailed. The Third Council of Constantinople formally condemned Monothelitism in 680–681 CE, asserting that Christ possesses two wills and two operations.142