Constantine-Silvanus appears to have been the founder, in 657, of the community of Paulicians, a dualistic Christian sect whose name derives either from Saint Paul, in the interpretation of whom they follow Marcion, or from a Manichaean preacher called Paul, sometimes confused with Paul of Samosata.

The Paulicians believe in two gods, one good and one evil, and teach that all matter is evil.

They deny the humanity of Jesus and reject the Old Testament, Catholic hierarchical order, and the notion of tradition.

The Paulicians, centered in Armenia, maintain that faith in Christ, who was an angel and therefore incapable of crucifixion, saves people from judgment.