Heresy of the Week: Audianism

After many months of being busy, I decided it was time to make this a priority again.  Welcome back to Heresy of the Week!

Audianism is a 4th century heresy with two main teachings: first, that God has a human form (an idea known as anthropomorphism, which refers to giving human qualities and characteristics to any non-human), and second, that Jesus’ death should always be celebrated during the Jewish Passover (on the date 14 Nisan in the Jewish calendar, also known as Quartodecimanism). While the Quartodecimanism practice was outlawed at the 325 Council of Nicaea, Audianists continued anyways. It soon died out, although it enjoyed a brief revitalization in 10th century Italy.

Heresy of the Week: Montanism

This week's heresy shows that holy rollers aren't a recent phenomenon...

Montanism (also known as Cataphrygianism and Phrygianism) was a 2nd century heresy that ultimately was the precursor of the Charismatic and Pentecostal movements. Montanism survived in limited pockets until the 8th century. It was a prophetic movement that relied on the spontaneity of the Holy Ghost and a more conservative personal moral. They called themselves “spiritales” (meaning “spiritual people”), while their opponents called them “psychici” (meaning “carnal, natural people”). They believed that they received modern prophesies through ecstatic, frenzied behavior and speaking in tongues. Often their “prophesies” contradicted the Bible and orthodox Christian doctrine. They believed many of their prophesies cleared up “ambiguities” in Scripture and believed their new prophesies superseded Scripture. Montanists believed that if a believer “fell from grace”, they were permanently lost and could not ever be brought to repentance. Some Montanists were Quartodecimanism believers. They recognized female bishops and ministers. They were strict followers of Asceticism.

Heresy of the Week: Quartodecimanism

Blessed Passion Week and Annunciation of our Lord!  In light of this time of the church year, it seemed appropriate that this week's heresy be Easter-themed.

Quartodecimanism is a 2nd century heresy that says Easter should only be celebrated during the Passover, on 14 Nisan in the Jewish calendar. It was condemned at the 325 Council of Nicaea. Followers of Audianism practiced Quartodecimanism, even after the Council condemned it, and it enjoyed a brief revitalization in 10th century Italy.