by John D. Hushon, 2024, Kindle Edition (print replica),

I enjoyed reading this book and learned a great deal about the various interpretations of Christianity as the church was forming. It’s about a young man, Marcion, who was destined to follow in his father’s footsteps to become the Bishop of Synope. At an early age, however, he began to question his father’s views and attitudes in his practice of Christianity. In those days a person was chosen as a bishop based on his prominence in the community. He had to have a family, be wealthy, and have a reputation as a leader. Marcion felt that something was missing and it was the spiritual aspect.

Because his father was involved in the shipping business, Marcion had the opportunity to visit various other communities (Heraclea, Ephesus, Antioch, Alexandria among others) and observed how the new religion was being practiced. There were startling differences which were confusing.

As Marcion achieved success in the business world, he decided to move to Rome where he would establish a foothold for his business. While there he composed a document outlining his beliefs and presented it to a small group of Christians (along with a large monetary donation). He was put on trial and branded a heretic and told he had to immediately leave Rome.

Marcion was primarily a follower of the Apostle Paul. The second reading in church each Sunday is usually from one of Paul’s letters, but it’s difficult to tie the excerpts together from week to week. This book helped me to understand Paul’s messages much better as well as the controversy he generated.

I am personally acquainted with the author and I look forward to discussing the book with him.