Apostasy

[npetreley]

The word "apostasy" simply means defection, or the renunciation of a religious faith. That's pretty general. So, would you know what apostasy looks like? Have you seen apostasy? Does it have to be a full-blown renunciation of Christ, or does the abandonment of the basic principles of the faith while continuing to give lip-service to Christ also mean apostasy?

 

[GeneMBridges]

I think RBC Howell, former SBC President, did an excellent job defining it:

It is, secondly, necessary that you discriminate carefully, between backsliding, and apostasy. The former is the act of turning back from God; the latter is the forsaking, or the renouncing of the religion of Christ. Backsliding consists either in the relinquishment of evangelical doctrine; or in the loss of spirituality of mind; or in the gradual departure from correct morals. All these evils are embraced in apostasy. The backslider commits transgressions, but returns to his allegiance, and obtains forgiveness, and acceptance. The apostate continues; dies in his sins; and "so eternally perishes." We teach that none of the true children of God--he believing, the pardoned, the regenerated, the sanctified--become apostate, but to backsliding, of every character and degree, all, it is but too evident, even the best, and most devoted, are constantly, and painfully liable.

(emphasis mine)