Apostasy, Blasphemy, Heresy

their definition and meaning

ver.: 28 June 2008

Define : apostasy, blasphemy, heresy, excommunication, ancient heresies, a modern heresy.

What Is Apostasy ?

apostasy : [from Greek, meaning 'revolt'; apo- (away from, off) + -(hi)stanai (to stand)] defection; abandonment of what one once held or believed. It's usually used when someone makes a clear break with an orthodoxy or established teaching they once held dear. It's another of those words (like 'heresy', 'blasphemy', and 'excommunication') that are used by those in power to stomp on those who are not. Yet the word itself is about a change that happens all too often in real life.

Sometimes, it happens when someone finds out that their position has been built upon lies and accusations and anger instead of love and truth, and the truth demands that they rethink what they believe. That's an act of repentance and is thus part of following Christ. More commonly, it happens when someone realizes there is more to gain personally by changing position - most likely, that they'd no longer be on the outside of those they seek to befriend. In the latter case, it's understandable but foolish.

You can also check the dictionary for what 'apostasy' means.

What Is Blasphemy ?

blasphemy : [from Greek; blas- (to curse, bring harm, or treat with contempt) + -pheme (speech)] Speaking about God with contempt, hatred or disdain; trash-talking against God. It's not about letting loose a swear word or doing some religious act in a so-called "profane" style. Blasphemy is not even about being angry with God. Even the truest saints have done such things, in part because they were so true that they could be honest with God and humankind. (Remember that when the charge of so-called 'blasphemy' is used by authorities to silence their opponents.) However, true blasphemy is verbally abusing the God who loves you.

Can puny little you hurt the Almighty Creator of the Universe, All Stars and All Time? When you were a child, you probably said things that brought your parents to tears and anger; if so, you hurt them the way you can hurt God. Or think of someone you had a close friendship with, but somehow your trust was betrayed. You were close, but bitter words were said and you're now distant and separated. And it stings. Blasphemy is when it's done willfully, with intent and meaning. God forgives blasphemy, and tries to do something about the separation. But the true blasphemer won't accept that forgiveness, as if to say : "Let me get this right : you forgive me?? HA !! What nerve!". And so they seal their future. The bigger problem is that too often others join in the harangue, and when that happens, those others are also separated from God.

You can also check for 'blasphemy' in the dictionary.

balderdash :

1. nonsense; meaningless rant.
2. a rapidly-receding hairline.

What Is Heresy ?

heresy : teaching lies about God. In most religions that have a god, being truthful about that god is taken very seriously. If God is really supreme, then God deserves the supreme honor of our taking the time and care not to run off rashly at the mouth, claiming this or that thing is true about or is done by God. Many heresies seem hypnotic in their ability to lead people far astray, into spiritually deluded and destructive beliefs and behaviors. Thus, a passion for truth is the root of the concept of heresy. The idea of heresy runs into trouble, however, on several fronts, the biggest of which is, 'who determines what is heresy?'. Those in a position of power routinely use their power of defining heresy against those who challenge their authority, sometimes all the way to murder and war.

How can Christians honor the truth behind the concept of heresy, without letting it be a weapon in defense of the powerful? The nearest way is to have full, frank and open discussion of such matters, among a people who take seriously their duty to keep testing and prodding, prayerfully using Scripture and the tools of discernment. And not putting up with any attempt to manipulate the dialogue, subtle or up front. Alas, even that doesn't work very well anymore, as some people have become ever better at manipulating words and images to tell self-serving lies about God. And in the free-wheeling online world, heresy thrives.

It adds up to this :

• apostasy is treason.
• blasphemy is insult.
• heresy is lying.

You know it's wrong when it's done to you. It's even more wrong when it's done to God.

You can also find the definition of 'heresy' in the dictionary.