The word “heretic” is often thrown around today to denounce someone for espousing an idea deemed “unbiblical” or “unorthodox” or “contrary to the teachings of the church.” It carries a negative connotation, often meant to cast a poor soul out of a community to be shunned, exiled, and sometimes even tortured with words or sharp implements. And in extreme cases, killed and ultimately damned. But as one looks at the history of heretics, one finds quite a few surprises.
In Praise of Heretics
Spilled Coffee on Ancient Scrolls 