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J_Edwards said:

How far does one need to expose himself in what he teaches and does to be declared an apostate?

First of all I think it's important to recognize the difference between heresy and apostasy. When I think of heresy I think about a person or a teaching that is in error and needs to be corrected. But with apostasy I think in terms of a person who is living in enmity against God and has rejected his religious beliefs. This is quite different than being in error or having private internal doubts. The disciple Judas is probably the best biblical example of an apostate.

Hebrews 6 describes apostasy as a public rejection of a faith once confessed. According to Hebrews 6:4-8 and 10:26 this kind of falling away is irreversible. We can see the results of this in Hebrews 12:15.

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heresy

from a Greek word signifying (1) a choice, (2) the opinion chosen, and (3) the sect holding the opinion. In the Acts of the Apostles (5:17; 15:5; 24:5, 14; 26:5) it denotes a sect, without reference to its character. Elsewhere, however, in the New Testament it has a different meaning attached to it. Paul ranks "heresies" with crimes and seditions (Gal. 5:20). This word also denotes divisions or schisms in the church (1 Cor. 11:19). In Titus 3:10 "heretical person" is one who follows his own self-willed "questions," and who is to be avoided. Heresies thus came to signify self-chosen doctrines not emanating from God (2 Pet. 2:1).

apostasy

n 1: the state of having rejected your religious beliefs or your political party or a cause (often in favor of opposing beliefs or causes) [syn: renunciation, defection] 2: the act of abandoning a party or cause [syn: tergiversation]


Wes

When I survey the wondrous cross on which the Prince of Glory died, my richest gain I count but loss and pour contempt on all my pride. - Isaac Watts