The Heresy in Christian Theology section examines teachings and movements that depart from essential biblical doctrine and historic Christian belief. It functions as a reference resource to help ministers, teachers, and students identify theological error, understand why certain teachings are considered heretical, and respond with clarity grounded in Scripture.
Heresy is not simply disagreement or secondary difference. In Christian theology, heresy involves the denial, distortion, or replacement of core truths revealed in Scripture, particularly concerning the nature of God, the person and work of Christ, the authority of Scripture, and the means of salvation. Throughout the history of the Church, heretical teachings have often arisen by emphasizing one aspect of truth while neglecting or rejecting others, or by introducing ideas foreign to biblical revelation.
This section explores major historical and contemporary heresies, the contexts in which they emerged, and the doctrinal errors they promote. Attention is given to how the Church has responded to heresy through councils, creeds, confessions, and careful biblical teaching. Understanding these responses helps clarify why orthodox doctrine developed as it did and why certain boundaries are necessary for preserving the integrity of the gospel.
Use this section as a tool for study, teaching, apologetics, and pastoral discernment. It is intended to equip those in ministry to recognize error without fear, to correct false teaching with patience and humility, and to protect congregations from confusion and spiritual harm. Addressing heresy responsibly requires both conviction and charity, holding firmly to truth while seeking restoration rather than division whenever possible.
This section exists to promote doctrinal clarity, historical awareness, and faithful adherence to the truth of Scripture, recognizing that guarding sound doctrine is an essential responsibility of the Church.
Christian Arianism is a heretical theological belief that emerged in the fourth century and was named after Arius, a Christian priest in Alexandria, Egypt. Arius taught that the Son of God, Jesus Christ, was not co-eternal with the Father, but was instead a created being, distinct …
Christian Homoousia is a theological term that was introduced during the Arian controversy in the fourth century. It means “of the same substance” or “consubstantial” and refers to the belief that Jesus Christ is of the same substance as God the Father, and therefore fully divine. …
Christian Homoeanism is a theological belief that emerged in the fourth century during the Arian controversy. The term “Homoeanism” means “of similar essence” and is related to the concept of homoiousia, which means “of like substance.” Homoeanism was a compromise position between the orthodox Christian Church, …
By Michael Mooney, Exec. Elder Protestant and Evangelical Christians have historically rejected the Book of Mormon and the teachings of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church). This rejection is grounded in a combination of theological, historical, and biblical concerns. One of the …
By Michael Mooney, Exec. Elder Christianity vs Jehovah’s Witness Beliefs The differences between traditional Christian doctrine and the beliefs of Jehovah’s Witnesses are significant and often a source of contention. While both groups identify themselves as followers of Jesus Christ and claim to adhere to the …
By Michael Mooney, Exec. Elder Gnosticism isn’t just a second-century heresy, it is a recurring pattern of distortion. Its ideas have reemerged in many contemporary forms: spiritual elitism, body-soul dualism, and a rejection of biblical authority. For ministers, understanding how the Apostle John opposed this heresy …
What is the Pseudepigrapha This article answers a common theological and educational question faced by Christian ministers, Bible students, and lay believers: what is the Pseudepigrapha, and how should it be understood in relation to Scripture. Because these writings often surface in academic discussions, online debates, …
The NACM holds the Doctrine of Gnosticism as Heresy, and it Should Have No Place in the Foundation of Biblical Doctrine! Gnosticism is an ancient religious movement that developed in the first few centuries of Christianity. It is a complex and diverse system of beliefs that …