The term “heresy in the early church” refers to doctrinal deviations that arose within the Christian Church during its early years. These beliefs contradicted the Church’s orthodox teachings, causing divisions and disputes among the faithful. Gnosticism, Arianism, and Docetism are examples of early heresies that challenged key tenets of Christian theology. The Church responded by convening councils to clarify its teachings and condemn the heresy. These early controversies contributed to the development of Christian doctrine and the formation of the Church as we know it today.