Heresies
Among the condemned “works of the flesh” are “heresies.” This word, from the Greek HAIRESIS denotes “a choosing, choice; then, that which is chosen, and hence, an opinion, especially a self-willed opinion, which is substituted for submission to the power of truth, and leads to division and the formation of sects” (Vine’s Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words).
Since this word is used in its plural form, it may refer to a group of people who have all made a choice to reject the truth in favor of their party’s own opinions. To put it bluntly, it sounds a lot like denominationalism today. Sadly, groups who offer a “choice” other than what God’s Word offers are considered heretics in God’s eyes and face a sad judgment.
It may be tempting for us to believe that groups engaged in false teaching will not face any consequences. However, such a belief is contrary to God’s Word.
In fact, we learn more of these “heresies” by looking at another passage where the word is used. 2 Peter 2:1-3 says, “...there were also false prophets among the people, even as there will be false teachers among you, who will secretly bring in destructive heresies, even denying the Lord who bought them, and bring on themselves swift destruction. And many will follow their destructive ways, because of whom the way of truth will be blasphemed.”
Be warned that this passage teaches those who “secretly bring in destructive heresies” are not irreligious people, they are false teachers of religion themselves! Sadly, “many will follow” their anti-Biblical teaching and practices. Are you one of them?
July 2007