The research article on
hairesis by Schlier (in Kittel, vol. 1) states that its 'usage in Acts corresponds exactly to that of Josephus and the earlier Rabbis' but the development of the Christian sense of heresy does not parallel this Rabbinic use.
When the NT
ekklesia (church) came into being, there was no place for
hairesis. They were opposed to each other. This author states that 'the greater seriousness consists in the fact that
hairesis affect the foundation of the church in doctrine (2 Pt. 2:1), and that they do so in such a fundamental way as to give rise to a new society alongside the
ekklesia'(Schlier).
Surely that is what we see in the Uniting Church today in Australia (UCA) with its support of theological liberalism's unbiblical doctrines and most recently endorsing homosexual marriages conducted by its clergy in its churches?
From the NT, heresy also is used to mean what Paul called strange doctrines, different doctrine, doctrines of demons, every wind of doctrine, etc. (1 Tim 1:3; 4:1; 6:3; Eph 4:14), as contrasted with sound doctrine, our doctrine, the doctrine conforming to godliness, the doctrine of God, etc. (1 Timothy 4:6; 6:1,3; 2 Tim 4:3; Titus 1:9; 2:1, 10).
Therefore, the UCA, in supporting same-sex marriage and the anti-supernaturalism of theological liberalism promotes heresy. This heretical poison will destroy the potential of any church or denomination for growth. According to the Christian Research Association,
the UCA lost 31% of its attendance from 1996-2006.
Heresy kills denominations. According to the Oxford English Dictionary, heresy is the "belief or opinion contrary to orthodox religious (especially Christian) doctrine." A second definition is: "Opinion profoundly at odds with what is generally accepted" (Oxford English Dictionary 2021. "
heresy.")
