Heterodoxy

Ecclesiastic usage

Eastern Orthodoxy

In the Eastern Orthodox Church, the term is used to refer to Christian churches not belonging to the Eastern Orthodox communion and holding doctrines different from those of Orthodox Christianity, but not as different or thought to be as erroneous as heresy.

Related Topics:
Eastern Orthodox Church - Christian - Eastern Orthodox communion - Heresy

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Roman Catholicism

Heterodoxy in the Roman Catholic Church refers to views that differ from strictly orthodox views, but retain sufficient faithfulness to the original doctrine to avoid heresy. Many Roman Catholics profess some heterodox views, either on doctrinal or social issues. For example, the orthodox Catholic position on unbaptized infants is that their fate is uncertain, and "the Church can only entrust them to the mercy of God" (Catechism of the Catholic Church 1261). A heterodox Catholic might profess the belief that unbaptized infants are offered the option to accept or deny salvation by God at their judgment. The belief is not orthodox, as the Church does not profess a belief as to what happens to unbaptized infants, however, it is also not heresy, as the Church accepts that such a scenario might be possible. One who denied the doctrine of original sin, thereby negating the necessity of baptism for children, would be a heretic.

Related Topics:
Roman Catholic Church - Heresy - Original sin

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Other denominations

The term heterodox is occasionally used by some Christians to refer to religious doctrines that they believe to be incorrect.

Related Topics:
Christians - Doctrine

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