Many Christians and Christian leaders today do not believe doctrine is important.  They view doctrine as heady, theoretical, divisive, and impractical.  They would rather go to church and hear a sermon which is light-hearted, short, and positive.  That is why so many professing Christians are having such a difficult time in their lives.  They are trying to build their lives on sand instead of the solid foundation of biblical doctrine.

 

I want to answer two questions about doctrine.

1.   What does the Bible mean by “doctrine?”  The term “doctrine” simply means “teaching.”  Many Christians and Christian leaders think doctrine is abstract and unrelated to life.  But, nothing could be further from the truth.  Nothing is more practical and related to life than sound doctrine.

We need to understand God’s teaching on…                

creation                       marriage              money                  government

salvation                     divorce                 debt                      rewards

the church                   family                   work                     Heaven

serving                        the poor              Hell                       child-rearing

holy living                   discipline             widows                   end-times

 

2.  Why should leaders teach and preach sound doctrine?  Teachers and preachers have four options when it comes to doctrine.

·        Teach error.

·        Teach very little doctrine.

·        Teach no doctrine.  They substitute other things they think will be more popular.

·        Faithfully teach and preach sound doctrine.

 

Seven Reasons to Teach Sound Doctrine

1.      Because we are commanded to teach sound doctrine (1 Timothy 4:6, 13, 15-16)

2.    Because it is the basis for all practical application.  The pattern of Scripture is always doctrine, then duty (Romans 12:1).

3.      Because it is our defense against false teaching (2 Timothy 4:1-4)

4.      Because it is our food for spiritual growth (1 Peter 2:2)

5.      Because it equips us for service and godly living (2 Timothy 3:16-17)

6.      Because it is the only way to have unity in the home and the church (Amos 3:3)

7.      Because it is God’s means of converting a sinner (Romans 10:13-15, 17)

 

“You will be a worthy servant of Christ Jesus, one who is nourished by…the sound doctrine you have followed.”  1 Timothy 4:6