Who is considered a heretic?

A heretic is defined as an individual who holds beliefs that diverge from the established doctrines or teachings of the church. This definition stems from historical contexts, particularly during periods such as the Middle Ages and the Reformation when religious orthodoxy was strictly monitored, and deviation was often met with severe consequences.

The concept of heresy has been pivotal in shaping church policies and has often led to significant conflicts within Christianity and other religions. Individuals labeled as heretics typically challenged the core beliefs or practices of their religious institutions, prompting reactions that could range from excommunication to persecution.

In contrast, the other options do not embody the characteristics of heretics. A loyal follower of the church represents adherence to its teachings, while a leader within the church is typically someone who upholds and disseminates church doctrine. Similarly, a scholar of theology may engage critically with religious texts and traditions but does not necessarily position themselves in opposition to church teachings as heretics do. Therefore, identifying a person with beliefs against church teachings as a heretic accurately captures the essence of the term.