The Highway Forums General Discussion Theology Discussion Forum How should we respond tolerance of heresy ?

I would hardly say that 1Cor 15:1-4 is "a detailed understanding of the Gospel". Rather, it is a very brief summary of SOME of the major tenets of the Gospel. Surely, the Gospel is only to be understood in "detail" from a reading of the entire Bible. The content of the Gospel will vary depending upon the individual or group one is speaking to according to their knowledge of biblical truth. What I consider to be a bare minimum of what should be included in the Gospel can be found HERE.

Secondly, in Gal 1:9 Paul doesn't restrict his anathema to false preachers or teachers but rather his curse is cast upon anyone. The word "preachers" here should not be confined to something spoken behind a pulpit in an established church. I believe it is best understood as the general proclamation of the things concerning God's salvation in Christ.

Thirdly, I certainly agree with your understanding of the word "cursed/accursed" (Grk: anathema). And what is this "another Gospel"? Yes, it could refer to the gospel of Mormonism, Jehovah's Witnesses and other sects and cults. But specifically here in Paul's letter to the Galatians... and to us today, he says it is a different gospel (v. 6) and even more specifically, it is a perversion (Grk: metastrepho) of the Gospel. In short, it is a counterfeit gospel; it sounds like the true Gospel because it has elements of truth in it mixed with damnable error. This is one of the reasons Paul is so adamant to anathematize those who speak a false gospel. Take careful note that a false gospel leads to death!

So how serious is this matter of bringing and/or believing in a false gospel? Paul does not mince his words nor resort to tender euphemisms when addressing this issue. For example, look how he chastises those in Corinth who were entertaining a false gospel:

And if there was any doubt as to how passionate Paul was in defending against all false gospels but particularly those false gospels which were synergistic (admixture of grace + works) and warning believers to guard against such, he uses some very harsh and descriptive language:

This is a perfect expression of love to those who were endangered by these "soul winners". And, as well it was a loving manner of speaking in such terms that they who were perverting the Gospel might understand the severity of God's judgment upon them.

Lastly, I am in full agreement with you in regard to how we are to treat both false pastors, elders, deacons; office bearers, and laity... both in a loving manner which does not exclude harsh words of warning and a call to repentance and faith in the true Lord Jesus Christ of the true Gospel.