Know the heretics

There is a lot of talk about heresy these days. The frequency and volume of accusations suggest that some Christians have lost a sense of the gravity of the word. On the other hand, many believers have little to no familiarity with orthodox doctrine or the historic distortions of it.

What’s needed is a strong dose of humility and restraint, and also a clear and informed definition of orthodoxy and heresy. Know the Heretics provides an accessible “travel guide” to the most significant heresies throughout Christian history. As a part of the KNOW series, it is designed for personal study or classroom use, but also for small groups and Sunday schools wanting to more deeply understand the foundations of the faith.

Each chapter covers a key statement of faith and includes a discussion of its historical context; a simple explanation of the unorthodox teaching, the orthodox response and a key defender; reflections of contemporary relevance; and discussion questions.

Publisher: Zondervan
Type: paperback
ISBN: 9780310515074

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Justin S. Holcomb, PhD, is an award-winning author, seminary professor, and minister. He has written or edited numerous books on historical theology, abuse, and biblical studies. Justin and his wife, Lindsey, are authors of Is It My Fault? and Rid of My D

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This book has truly been an excellent primer on the heretical roots that orthodox Christianity has come up against! Justin Holcomb outdid himself; Know the Heretics is an excellent introduction to Apologetics and having a sound hermeneutic for orthodox Christian study of the Bible. I am no MDiv., but more of an armchair theologian-meaning I enjoy books that challenge and provide understanding that do not require an MDiv. just to understand the Introduction. Justin Holcomb writes this book in such a way that makes it challenging, thought-provoking and yet palatable and approachable. Each chapter begins with the history of the particular heretic being studies, their background,t he historical context in which they and/or their views arose, and really sets the stage to understanding where they erred in orthodox Christianity. Once the stage has been set-briefly, succinctly-yet powerfully, Holcomb then shares the Orthodox response to the heresy. Given today's age where you have to know what you believe and why, this is greatly appreciated! Make no mistake, Holcomb gives as impartial a view as possible without delving into denominational issues of difference! Once the response has been shared, then time is taken to discuss contemporary relevance. The text does a wonderful job of not being paternalistic nor patronizing to other (unorthodox) beliefs. Interestingly enough, it is of note to see how history-and heresy-often repeat themselves-among and outside of the orthodox church. Wrapping up each chapter are discussion questions and sources. The questions are not "Little Bunny Foo-Foo" questions either! You can go through them alone and/or in a group and yield some impactful reflection and discussion. All of his sources are legit and lend themselves to additional reading and discussion as well. Great read! AltarEgo23