The fourth-century had many great leaders. Three Cappadocians from Asia Minor were among the more prominent of the orthodox leaders. Basil was a capable bishop of the metropolitan church of Cæsarea in Cappadocia, and he had the knack of smoothing out theological difficulties. It was he who gave a rule to Eastern monasticism. His brother, Gregory of Nyssa, was the ablest theologian of his party after Athanasius, and he was in close sympathy with the thinking of Origen. The third was Gregory of Nazianzus, a schoolmate of Basil, who became distinguished as a poet and orator. Best known for his reputation as an orator was John Chrysostom, a native of Antioch. He was well educated, passed several years in the austere life of a monk, and then for twelve years was the preacher of the church in Antioch. His practical sermons delighted the people who flocked to hear him. In 398 he was given a still larger role as the patriarch of Constantinople. Unfortunately, his plain-speaking drew the hostility of the empress. His sympathy with the theological position of Antioch invited the hostility of Alexandria also. The result was that he was driven from his see and died in exile.
Impact: The Greek Fathers were important champions and defenders of the Nicene Creed and their influence as men of God who would never waver in their faith did much to defend orthodoxy against heresy and the interference of the government.