Heresy is any teaching or belief that deviates from the clear doctrine of Scripture and contradicts the gospel of Jesus Christ. It is not merely a difference in opinion on secondary matters but a serious distortion of the truth that leads people away from salvation and obedience to God.
Titus 3:10–11 says:
“Reject a divisive man after the first and second admonition, knowing that such a person is warped and sinning, being self-condemned.”
The Greek word for heresy (“hairesis”) originally meant a sect or faction but came to be used for doctrinal error that causes division and rebellion against truth.
Examples of heresy in Scripture include:
Denying the deity of Christ (1 John 2:22–23)
Preaching a false gospel (Galatians 1:6–9)
Teaching that the resurrection had already occurred (2 Timothy 2:17–18)
Galatians 1:8–9 gives a stern warning:
“But even if we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel… let him be accursed.”
Heresy corrupts the church and leads souls into error. False teachers often introduce heresy subtly, mixing truth with lies (2 Peter 2:1).
Paul told Timothy:
“Take heed to yourself and to the doctrine. Continue in them, for in doing this you will save both yourself and those who hear you.” (1 Timothy 4:16)
The early church guarded against heresy by holding fast to apostolic teaching (Acts 2:42). Today, believers must test all things by the Word of God and reject any teaching that contradicts the clear gospel message.
Heresy is not just a mistake, it is rebellion against revealed truth. It must be identified, confronted, and rejected to preserve the purity and unity of the church.
