R C Sproul on Apostasy

Given the denial by many that there is denominational apostasy in Scotland, we need to be able to define apostasy.  Some define it in such a way that it is almost impossible for it to occur. Sadly others define it in such a way that it is almost impossible for it to be avoided. Thus you have, on the one hand, those who say that a denomination that accepts homosexual conduct in its members or permits ministers to deny foundational truths is not apostate. On the other hand you have those who say if you don't use the KJV you must be apostate. Sproul with perfect balance shows the possibility of both doctrinal and moral apostasy:

There are at least two ways in which a religious group fails to meet the standards of being a church.

The first is when they lapse into a state of apostasy. Apostasy occurs when a church leaves its historic moorings, abandons its historic confessional position, and degenerates into a state where either essential Christian truths are blatantly denied or the denial of such truths is widely tolerated.

Another test of apostasy is at the moral level. A church becomes apostate de facto when it sanctions and encourages gross and heinous sins. Such practices may be found today in the controversial systems of denominations, such as mainline Episcopalianism and mainline Presbyterianism, both of which have moved away from their historic confessional moorings as well their confessional stands on basic ethical issues.