Heretics in Christian history
Marcion, the theologian who wanted Christianity to abandon Israe l Posted at Ponderings / Along Life's Journey : The word "heresy" is closely associated with the idea of "schism," breaking off from the church, and theologians have made a distinction between "formal" and "material" heresy. Formal heresy is a stubborn denial of vital Christian doctrine—those who have heard the truth and then rejected it. Material heresy is what happens when a person embraces a false doctrine out of ignorance. One of the ways we combat material heresy is through education, knowing the Scriptures and the history of Christian doctrine. Let's examine nine of the most notorious heretics in Christian history. 1. Simon Magus In Acts chapter 8, Simon the Magician was the guy who wanted to purchase the power of the Holy Spirit from the apostles. He saw them performing miracles and essentially wanted to buy the ability to impart the Holy Spirit to whoever he laid h...
