“Seminary Word(s)” of the day – Orthodoxy / Orthopraxy
Both words combine two Greek terms: “ortho” meaning straight, and either “doxa” (opinion / belief) or “praxis” (action). Thus, orthodoxy signifies right belief, while orthopraxy refers to right action.
The Christian faith is based on orthodoxy – true belief in the truth (e.g., Mark 16:16; Ephesians 4:5, 6; Titus 2:1; 2 Timothy 1:13). In Christianity, orthodoxy is determined by adherence to scriptural teachings as stated in the Church’s creeds (e.g., Apostles, Nicene, Athanasian, Chalcedonian) . Right belief is the basis for right action, so orthopraxy should always follow from orthodoxy. This is why many of Paul’s epistles begin with theology and end with exhortation to right living.
For more information see:
- Heresies by Harold O. J. Brown
- Orthodoxy & Heresy: a Biblical Guide to Doctrinal Discernment by Robert M. Bowman