Greek

αἵρεσις

Transliteration/Pronunciation

hairesis/hī’-re-sēs

Strong’s

G139

Definition

Often translated “sect” or “party”, this word generally means a subdivided group with their own interests. Early Christians were called a Jewish sect (Acts 24:5, Acts 28:22). It’s also interesting to note that in 1 Cor 11:19 we are told that there must be sects among us in order for “those who are genuine” to be recognized.

Acts 20:30 also warns us against people who rise up speaking twisted things who “draw away disciples after them”. 1 Timothy 4:1 warns us against the same type of thing, as does 2 Peter 2:1 (which actually uses the word “hairesis”).

This is also what Paul wrote against in 1 Corinthians 1:10-17.

From this word study, I think an interesting question to ask from a study of this word would be; “Why do we have denominations?”

Where it’s found

Genesis 49:5; Leviticus 22:18; Leviticus 22:21; Acts 5:17; Acts 15:5; Acts 24:5; Acts 24:14; Acts 26:5; Acts 28:22; I Corinthians 11:19; Galatians 5:20; II Peter 2:1

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