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Expert: Alex Anatole - 11/1/2009
Question
Dear Alex Anatole,
With my retirement, I have developed a sincere interest in the history of the early so called Western church, particularly that period when Western Europe was transformed from paganism into a form of Christianity. I find this period intriguing especially since growing up in America we were never introduced to this period in school and my university had little to offer on the subject. I am now reading “Medieval Heresy” by Malcolm Lambert a work which goes beyond my specific interests but I am both fascinated and appalled by the response of the Western church to heresies and of course to heretics. I find the political, economic, and theological exploitations of the Inquisition to be frightening and cynical of religious authority. Heresy is a dangerous entity within any group of believers however it may be better utilized as a tool to define orthodoxy. To my question, how did the Eastern Church react to heretics and their teachings? What was the authority (ies) which decided what was or what was not accepted belief? What punitive measures were employed? I would be very grateful for both a concise answer and perhaps some bibliography please.
Sincerely yours,
Michael Elior
Jerusalem (yes), Israel
Answer
Michael,
Although Orthodox history does have its bloodier moments, it doesn't even approach the excesses of the West.
Our ultimate earthly authority has always been the consensus of our Bishops. This is formed mainly through the seven Ecumenical Councils (Nicea I - Nicea II,# certain decisions of regional councils, and the common usage of liturgical worship.
Unrepentant heretics are excommunicated. In truth, they excommunicate themselves. The Church merely takes public notice of their decision.
To begin you studies of Orthodoxy, I suggest two books, both by Timothy Ware #now Metropolitan Kallistos.)
1) The Orthodox Church http://www.intratext.com/x/eng0804.htm
2) The Orthodox Way.
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