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I completely understand where you are coming from as well. I believe that Christology, or the study of who Christ is, is perhaps the most important concept for the early Church. If the Church misinterprets who Christ is, then it will also misinterpret what we do when we come together to worship, how we are saved, and ultimately the good news of the Gospel.
As I see it, the Arian controversy is an excellent example of how doctrine is not simply a matter of abstract argumentation; doctrine affects the day-to-day practice and faith of believers. I am grateful that you mentioned Athanasius. He is an excellent example of someone who stood firm and continued to defend the divinity of Christ. Because of this, he continues to remind me that standing up for truth often takes time.