Editing Eusebius of Nicomedia (section)

== Political and religious career ==
In complement to his theological interests, Eusebius was a skilled politician. Upon his return, he regained the lost ground resulting from the [[First Council of Nicaea]], established alliances with other groups such as the [[Melitians]] and expelled many opponents.

He was described by modern historians as an "ambitious intriguer"<ref name="roldanus-pp78">Roldanus, "The Church in the Age of Constantine - The Theological Challenges", p. 78.</ref> and a "consummate political player".<ref name="drake-pp395"/> He was also described by ancient sources as a high-handed person who was also aggressive in his dealings;<ref name="amidon-10.12">Amidon, "The Church History of Rufinus of Aquileia - Books 10 and 11", 10.12.</ref> he also used his allies to spy on his opponents.

He was able to dislodge and exile three key opponents who espoused the [[First Council of Nicaea]]: [[Eustathius of Antioch]] in 330, [[Athanasius of Alexandria]] in 335 and [[Marcellus of Ancyra]] in 336. This was no small feat since Athanasius was regarded as a "man of God" by Constantine,<ref name="roldanus-pp84">Roldanus, "The Church in the Age of Constantine - the Theological Challenges", p. 84.</ref> and both Eustathius and Athanasius held top positions in the church.

Another major feat was his appointment as the Patriarch of Constantinople by expelling [[Paul I of Constantinople]]; Paul I would eventually return as Patriarch after Eusebius's death.

Even outside the empire, Eusebius had great influence. He brought [[Ulfilas]] into the Arian priesthood and sent the latter to [[Gothic Christianity|convert the heathen Goths]].

Eusebius baptised [[Constantine the Great]] in his villa in Nicomedia, on 22 May 337 just before the death of the Emperor.