... in ancient Greek philosophy is the controlling principle in the universe

Perhaps the early Greek Christian authors naturally were adding Hellenistic philosophy to the monotheistic religion they had acquired. - Alex Williams

I think you are right.

And why does this distinction matter if an ordinary reader understands precisely what we mean by this pairing of ... uh, palabras? - Wordminstrel

I'd say the distinction doesn't matter, Wordminstrel, for those who want to go through life as cattle; dimly munching their days away, never a contemplative thought about the nature of their existence.

By what you write here it is apparent that you have a clear, precise, well-ordered mind. Think of the thoughts that you could think if you could think in words that weren't so fuzzy.