Dictionary of Theological Terms

26. Orthodox

Orthodox – When the word is capitalized, it often refers to churches in eastern Europe, such as the Greek Orthodox Church. But when it is not capitalized, it means “generally accepted as correct.” If something isn’t orthodox, it is usually heretical, generally considered to be wrong. A “heterodox” idea is something in between – not widely accepted as true, nor considered as outside the boundaries of what a Christian may think.