Heresy represents not just false teachings but the resulting divisions within the church, which Scripture warns against.
Throughout the New Testament, the concept of heresy is closely associated with factions and divisions that can occur amongst believers. For example, Paul cautions against divisions in 1 Corinthians 11:19, suggesting that these are not merely disagreements but serious disruptions of the church's unity. In 2 Peter 2:1, the passage refers to destructive heresies brought by false teachers, which cause significant damage to the church itself. Thus, the seriousness of heresy stems from its ability to foster division and discord within the Body of Christ, which the apostles were keen to discourage.
Scripture References:
1 Corinthians 11:19, Galatians 5:20, 2 Peter 2:1
Commentary