Pope Martin I's arrest was a significant event reflecting the deep theological rifts of the early Byzantine period, particularly the controversy surrounding monothelitism. Monothelitism, proposed as a compromise to reconcile the differing views about Christ’s nature, asserted that while Christ had both a divine and human nature, He operated with a single divine will. This belief was supported by Emperor Constans II as a means to unify the Christian churches of the East and West. Pope Martin I, however, vehemently opposed this viewpoint, fearing it undermined the full humanity of Christ. His strong stance against monothelitism culminated in his 653 visit to Constantinople where he was summoned to appear before the emperor.

During this visit, Pope Martin was apprehended, imprisoned, and eventually taken to Constantinople. His opposition to the emperor's theological stance underscored the tensions beween papal authority and imperial power. The pope's imprisonment also led to increased conflicts regarding ecclesiastical governance, setting a precedent for future challenges between the church and the state. He was later subjected to a trial, which resulted in him being exiled to the Crimea, where he remained until his death.

The aftermath of Martin's arrest saw the continuation of the theological debates throughout the Christian world. His brutal treatment reflected the emperor's determination to enforce doctrinal conformity and aimed to quash dissent. In later years, the Council of Constantinople recognized Martin I as a martyr for the faith, solidifying his role as a pivotal figure in the defense of orthodox Christology. The unresolved issues surrounding monothelitism persisted well into the following centuries, influencing subsequent Christological debates and the relationship between the Eastern Orthodox and Roman Catholic churches.