Heresy is simply having the belief or an opinion that contradicts orthodox, especially Christianity and religion. It was an offense that was held in high contempt in the 1500s and 1600s and was punishable by death. Most persons who disagreed with orthodox practices usually hid themselves to avoid being killed. Among those that were murdered for having contradictory views from the church was Michael Servetus. He was a theologian and physician of Spanish origin. Servetus denied and was against the doctrine of orthodox Trinitarian. He did not believe in the existence of God in three different forms, he stated that God is only a single person. According to the belief of Michael Servetus, Trinity’s existence of God is actually three different forms that God chooses to manifest himself and not necessarily three different entities.
Another heresy from Servetus was that he did not agree with Jesus being called a God. That the human nature of Jesus nullifies the possibility of him being a God and that He was also created by God. In fact, Michael summarized his statements by saying only God is eternal and Jesus isn’t. The Catholics and protestants saw Servetus as a heretic for these declarations. Michael was in contact with John Calvin through the writing of letters but severed the communication as Servetus refused to denial of the Trinitarian doctrine which made him a heretic.
Servetus was wanted for heresy in Spain. This happened when the Spanish inquisition took action against him. The inquisition in France then declared him worthy of death by burning on the stake. However, Michael Servetus escaped before he was caught. He traveled to Geneva in August 1553 and was recognized and subsequently captured. On the request of Calvin, Servetus was burnt on the stake for his heretic comments and belief. This collection contains more detailed information about the murder of Michael Servetus and other heresies throughout history.
Another heresy from Servetus was that he did not agree with Jesus being called a God. That the human nature of Jesus nullifies the possibility of him being a God and that He was also created by God. In fact, Michael summarized his statements by saying only God is eternal and Jesus isn’t. The Catholics and protestants saw Servetus as a heretic for these declarations. Michael was in contact with John Calvin through the writing of letters but severed the communication as Servetus refused to denial of the Trinitarian doctrine which made him a heretic.
Servetus was wanted for heresy in Spain. This happened when the Spanish inquisition took action against him. The inquisition in France then declared him worthy of death by burning on the stake. However, Michael Servetus escaped before he was caught. He traveled to Geneva in August 1553 and was recognized and subsequently captured. On the request of Calvin, Servetus was burnt on the stake for his heretic comments and belief. This collection contains more detailed information about the murder of Michael Servetus and other heresies throughout history.