NEW YEAR 2024 Part 2a

issatisfaction, devotion, direction…

4. Find some determination

V. Phil 3: 14 “I press toward the mark…”

Philippians 3:14 KJV 1900

I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.

“By God’s grace, I hereby pledge to focus on the goal, to die trying if necessary, to go forward for God in the new year!”

[individual/family/church/ministry]

Ps. 65:11—David said, “Thou crownest the year with thy goodness”

Psalm 65:11 KJV 1900

Thou crownest the year with thy goodness; And thy paths drop fatness.

I) DEVELOP A DOCTRINAL BASE

John 17:17

John 17:17 KJV 1900

Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.

10 Things You Should Know about Sound Doctrine

1. Sound doctrine re-tells the single story that sweeps through all of Scripture.

From creation, through our fall into sin, to Jesus’s saving work on the cross and the eventual restoration of God’s rule over all creation, the Bible tells a single epic narrative that spans Genesis to revelation.

Sound doctrine traces the contours of this story and repeats it in simple, memorable forms.

2. Sound doctrine summarizes and synthesizes the Bible’s teaching as a coherent whole.

For all its diversity, Scripture fits together as a marvelous unity because it consists of God’s own words, revealing God’s own thoughts and acts.

Sound doctrine brings together all of Scripture’s teaching on every subject the Bible addresses.

3. Sound doctrine is a guide and guard for reading and teaching the Bible.

The goal of reading and teaching Scripture is to love God, and the way to love God is to know God.

Sound doctrine tells us what God is like so that we may love him more.

And sound doctrine is an important guard for interpreting Scripture.

It helps ensure that we confess and delight in all that Scripture teaches, rather than setting one passage against another or drawing conclusions from one passage that contradict another.

The goal of reading and teaching Scripture is to love God, and the way to love God is to know God.

4. Sound doctrine is God’s road map for the Christian life and the life of the church.

We listen to the teaching of God’s Word for the purpose of living it out.

Sound doctrine isn’t an information archive that serves only to present facts.

Rather, it’s a road map for our pilgrimage from this world to the world to come.

5. Sound doctrine nourishes holiness.

Every biblical doctrine, embraced by the mind and applied to the heart, conforms us to the character of Christ.

Sound doctrine drives us to devote ourselves more completely to God in our thoughts, desires, attitudes, words, and actions—which is what the Bible calls “holiness.”

As Jesus prayed, “Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth” ( John 17:17 ).

John 17:17 KJV 1900

Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.

6. Sound doctrine is the ground and pattern of love.

The apostle John once told a church that he loved them “in the truth,” and that all those who know the truth love them too, “because of the truth that abides in us and will be with us forever” ( 2 John 1-2 .

2 John 1–2 KJV 1900

The elder unto the elect lady and her children, whom I love in the truth; and not I only, but also all they that have known the truth; for the truth’s sake, which dwelleth in us, and shall be with us for ever.

Truth is the basis of the special bond of love that ties Christians’ hearts together.

And truth is the pattern of our love: we are to love one another in deed and truth, since that is how Jesus loved us (1 John 3:16-18 ).

1 John 3:16–18 KJV 1900

Hereby perceive we the love of God, because he laid down his life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren. But whoso hath this world’s good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him? My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth.

7. Sound doctrine is the foundation of unity in the church.

When the Corinthian church was torn by divisions over favored leaders, Paul shot back, “Is Christ divided?

Was Paul crucified for you? Or were you baptized in the name of Paul” (1 Cor 1:13 ).

1 Corinthians 1:13 KJV 1900

Is Christ divided? was Paul crucified for you? or were ye baptized in the name of Paul?

The unity of the church is grounded in the unity of the faith.

8. Sound doctrine is fuel for the fire of worship.

Over and over again the Bible not only tells us to worship; it tells us why to worship (Ps 95:1-7 ).

Psalm 95:1–7 KJV 1900

O come, let us sing unto the Lord: Let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation. Let us come before his presence with thanksgiving, And make a joyful noise unto him with psalms. For the Lord is a great God, And a great King above all gods. In his hand are the deep places of the earth: The strength of the hills is his also. The sea is his, and he made it: And his hands formed the dry land. O come, let us worship and bow down: Let us kneel before the Lord our maker. For he is our God; And we are the people of his pasture, and the sheep of his hand. To day if ye will hear his voice,

Sound doctrine reminds us that God has rescued us from our sin, reconciled us to himself, and pledged himself to provide for all of our needs, now and forever.

All of these are reasons to praise him, adore him, make a joyful noise to him, and bow down before him in submission and obedience.

9. Sound doctrine equips and emboldens evangelism.

The better you know the gospel, the better you’ll share the gospel.

And the better you remember that God is the one who gives life to the dead and sight to the blind (Eph 2:1-10 , 2 Cor 4:3-6 ), the more you’ll boldly preach the gospel, pray for conversions, and trust God to save sinners.

Ephesians 2:1–10 KJV 1900

And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins; Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience: Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others. But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus. For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.

2 Corinthians 4:3–6 KJV 1900

But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost: In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them. For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus’ sake. For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.

10. Sound doctrine fills up our joy.

Referring to all the teaching he gave his disciples on his last night with them—including some of the Bible’s richest teaching on the Trinity—Jesus says, “These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full (John 15:11).

John 15:11 KJV 1900

These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.

Because it unfolds the riches of God’s grace to us, sound doctrine brings light and hope and joy.

It fills our hearts with satisfaction in Christ because of what he has done for us.

Benefits of Good Doctrine

You believe something, but why do you believe it?

You have beliefs about many things.

You have strong opinions about God regarding what He is like or not like, how much He is involved in your life or how little, and what He can or cannot do.

You have serious views about marriage – you have thoughts about the role of the husband, role of the wife, submission, leadership in the home, and raising children.

You have convictions about things like what happens after life, what heaven and hell are like, the role of the Holy Spirit in your life and who Jesus is.

All your thoughts and ideas about matters dealing with God, Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit, the church, God’s Word, the devil, the spiritual world, angels and the like make you a theologian.

Whether we like it or not, every one of us is a theologian.

We all have a set of beliefs.

The question is, what are your beliefs based on?

What is the foundation of your theology?

Your beliefs, opinions, ideas, and convictions about God and matters pertaining to Him are called doctrine.

What you believe (doctrine) should be very important to you.

As a matter of fact, God’s Word tells you to “watch your life and doctrine closely” (1 Timothy 4:16, ).

Your “life” and “doctrine” go together.

One impacts the other.

What you experience often will impact what you believe, as well as what you believe influencing how you behave and make decisions.

The key to a life based on God’s truth is to align and adjust your beliefs with God’s Word.

In other words, your doctrine should agree with God’s doctrine.

Your beliefs should be supported by God’s Word.

Your experiences should be interpreted through the lens of good biblical doctrine. Biblical doctrine is what the Bible teaches us today about some particular subject.

Biblical doctrine can be very broad or very narrow. We can speak of the doctrine of God, which can be very large and comprehensive.

On the other hand, we can narrow the focus to the doctrine of the trinity of God, the love of God, the justice of God or the holiness of God.

A major doctrine would cover a large and important subject like God, but within the larger doctrine you also have more specific doctrine.

Those who study the Bible and the doctrines agree there are at least ten major doctrines or subjects in the Bible and every believer should have a good grip on in their understanding and application.

The Doctrine of Scripture

The Doctrine of God

The Doctrine of Christ

The Doctrine of the Holy Spirit

The Doctrine of Humanity

The Doctrine of Sin

The Doctrine of Salvation

The Doctrine of Angels, Satan and Demons

The Doctrine of the Church

The Doctrine of Last Things

Those are the major doctrines that you will usually find in most theology books.

However, I would like to add a few more to the major doctrine category.

The Doctrine of Discipleship

The Doctrine of Evangelism

The Doctrine of Prayer

The Doctrine of Stewardship

The Doctrine of Family

The Doctrine of Christian Life

The Doctrine of Creation

The Doctrine of Worship

These eighteen doctrines, I consider major and important to every believer for one of three reasons:

(1) They are subjects (doctrines) that are emphasized in Scripture;

(2) they are doctrines that have been most significant throughout the history of the church and have been important for all Christians at all times;

(3) they are subjects (doctrines) that have become important for Christians in the current culture in which we live.

At this time allow me to address the reasons for studying and knowing the major doctrines of the Bible.

How will they bless and benefit you in your spiritual growth and journey as you walk with God throughout the your life?

I) Good doctrine helps you to know God better

J.I. Pack once wrote, “We are cruel to ourselves if we try to live in this world without knowing the God whose world it is and who runs it.

The world becomes a strange, mad, painful place… for those who do not know about God” (Truth and Power, p.16).

Throughout life you will ask many questions such as: Why does God allow bad things to happen to good people?

Where is God when life hurts?

Why does God seem to not answer my prayers?

If God is all powerful why doesn’t He stop evil people from doing horrible things?

Why does God allow some people to live a long and healthy life, while others struggle with things like cancer?

Even though these are tough questions, good doctrine answers everyone.

Look carefully at Proverbs 2:1-5,

Proverbs 2:1–5 KJV 1900

My son, if thou wilt receive my words, And hide my commandments with thee; So that thou incline thine ear unto wisdom, And apply thine heart to understanding; Yea, if thou criest after knowledge, And liftest up thy voice for understanding; If thou seekest her as silver, And searchest for her as for hid treasures; Then shalt thou understand the fear of the Lord, And find the knowledge of God.

Gaining the knowledge of God does not mean you will be as smart as God. It means your knowledge of God will grow.

You will understand Him better. His ways will make more sense.

You will come to know God.

Your understanding of God’s power, God’s presence, God’s wisdom, God’s love, God’s holiness, God’s wrath, God’s discipline, and God’s grace will fill your mind and you will see more clearly why God does what He does and says what He says.

Your knowledge of God will increase.

However, this growth in knowing God better does not happen easily or overnight.

Notice the actions you are told to take” “listen to what I say” and “treasure my commands” and “tune your ears to wisdom” and “concentrate on understanding” and “cry out for insight” and “ask for understanding” and “search for them as you would silver” and “seek them like hidden treasures.”

These are prerequisites for gaining “the knowledge of God.”

This means you will need to read, think, study, rethink, ask others, pray, and rethink again as you wrestle with the great truths that God reveals to you.

The payoff is worth it. It’s priceless.

Knowing God better is worth more than all the silver and gold you can accumulate in a life time.

Knowing God is better than all the things you want to possess.

Good doctrine will take you where you need to go.

II) Good doctrine helps you overcome wrong ideas

If you believe wrong, you will behave wrong.

If your core beliefs are built on lies, you will make poor decisions.

If your doctrine is not based on God’s Word you can be easily mislead, confused, and deceived by the enemy.

The apostle Paul addressed this when he wrote, (Colossians 2:6-8, ).

Colossians 2:6–8 KJV 1900

As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him: Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving. Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.

The phrase, “the truth you were taught” refers to good doctrine, solid theology, and biblical core beliefs about Jesus Christ and what He teaches.

Throughout your life you will be challenged to think about God and life from a non-Biblical perspective.

The “spiritual powers of this world” will produce all sorts of “empty philosophies” and “high-sounding nonsense” to lead you away from God’s truth.

Here are some examples of “empty philosophies” and “high-sounding nonsense.”

a. Materialism. This says, “The one with the most toys wins.”

It will place an over importance on money, house, car, clothes, boat, and jewelry.

What is really important to this person is acquiring things.

For those who struggle with this Jesus said, “Guard against every kind of greed. Life is not measured by how much you own” (Luke 12:15, )

Luke 12:15 KJV 1900

And he said unto them, Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man’s life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth.

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b. Individualism. This philosophy is self-centered and has an individualistic way of life and says we should ignore the community and other people.

You live in a you-first Commercial slogans cater to this viewpoint. Slogans like, “Have it your way,” “We do it all for you,” “Obey your thirst,” “You’ve got to think of what’s best for yourself,” and “You deserve it.”

This you-first approach to life has torn up marriages (“I don’t care what God says or how it affects my family it’s about me”), destroyed workplaces (“I don’t care how my laziness impacts my co-workers, it’s about me”) and even ruined churches (“Serve my needs first, forget about the lost”).

In contrast to this Jesus said, “If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it.

But if you give up your life for my sake, you will save it” (Matthew 16:25, ).

Matthew 16:25 KJV 1900

For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it.

Jesus is saying you only begin to live when you give your life away for others.

Significance in life does not come from serving yourself; it comes from serving God and others.

c. Hedonism. The most important thing in life to this person is how they feel.

The number one goal of a hedonist is to feel good, be comfortable, and have fun.

Once the marriage is not fun, they are done.

If the church doesn’t make them happy, they will leave it.

This can also be very subtle.

If someone who lives for the goal of retirement so they can do nothing, live a self-centered life, and make no contribution to the world they are a hedonist.

God’s Word opposes this worldview, “Are you addicted to thrills?

What an empty life! The pursuit of pleasure is never satisfied” (Proverbs 21:17, ).

Proverbs 21:17 KJV 1900

He that loveth pleasure shall be a poor man: He that loveth wine and oil shall not be rich.

d. Pragmatism. As a worldview this is dangerous.

If a person embraces this perspective as their life’s philosophy they will evaluate everything on whether it works for them and is practical.

You will hear them say, “Whatever works for you” or “If it works for you, then it’s true for you.”

You may hear a pragmatist say, “Let’s live together first and see if it works for us” or “I don’t have time for church, I’ve got to get things done around the house.”

God’s truth doesn’t play into their equation unless they think it’s the best option and produces the best results.

God’s truth is simply one of many options. The Bible’s response to this, “There is a path before each person that seems right, but it ends in death” (Proverbs 14:12, ).

Proverbs 14:12 KJV 1900

There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, But the end thereof are the ways of death.

Our ideas, apart from God, may seem right and better than God’s ideas, but the end result is death (the death to relationships, joy, peace, health, and love in our life).

e. Naturalism. They believe that everything in life is a result of random chance (also known as atheism).

Everyone and everything were all accidents of nature.

There is no grand creator or grand design.

God either doesn’t exist or he doesn’t matter.

For naturalists, life has no value, meaning, or purpose beyond this world. Paul was confronting this when he wrote, “They know the truth about God because he has made it obvious to them.

For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky.

Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities – his eternal power and divine nature.

So they have no excuse for not knowing God” (Romans 1:19-20, ).

Romans 1:19–20 KJV 1900

Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them. For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:

We can look at nature and learn a lot about God.

Through nature we know that God is creative, powerful, organized, and likes diversity.

You are not a random accident.

f. Humanism. This worldview rejects the existence of God or the supernatural.

They believe the existence of God is meaningless and irrelevant to the survival and fulfillment of humanity.

They believe that people are only physical and there is nothing after this life.

Their morals and ethics are developed from personal experience.

The bottom line is, at some level, they believe you are your own god.

Paul challenged this when he wrote, “They traded the truth about God for a lie. So they worshiped and served the things God created instead of the Creator himself, who is worthy of eternal praise! Amen” (Romans 1:25, ).

Romans 1:25 KJV 1900

Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen.

There are many more examples of “empty philosophies” and “high-sounding nonsense” the “spiritual forces of this world” have developed and promoted but these serve to give you a good example of how doctrine can be used to protect you against wrong ideas.

III) Good doctrine helps you address doctrinal controversies

If you have been a Christian for very long then you already know there are numerous views about numerous things regarding what the Bible actually teaches among believers.

Good doctrine will help you to address these controversies with God’s truth and guide the conversation with God’s Word rather than mere opinion or emotion.

For example, a view that seems to be growing in popularity is universalism.

This view says that when Jesus died on the cross and resurrected from the grave for our sins He did it for everyone for all time.

Thereby, no one needs to place their faith in Christ for salvation, because they are already saved.

Just as the first Adam brought sin into the world, the second Adam (Jesus Christ) took sin out of the world.

Someone may believe this because of one or two misinterpreted Scriptures that are taken out of context.

We could show this person one verse or perhaps two that speak of Jesus death on the cross and the requirement for individuals to place their faith in Christ for salvation, but the person might still find a way to evade the force of those verses or read a different meaning into them.

But if we collect twenty-five or thirty verses that say that we must place our faith in Christ for salvation and write them out on a piece of paper, the person who hesitated to believe that a person’s faith is required for salvation is much more likely to be persuaded by the breadth and diversity of biblical evidence for this doctrine.

When addressing doctrinal controversies Wayne Grudem stated, “We all have areas like that, areas where our understanding of the Bible’s teaching is inadequate.

In these areas, it is helpful for us to be confronted with the total weight of the teaching of Scripture on that subject, so that we will more readily be persuaded even against our initial wrongful inclinations.”[i]

IV) Good doctrine helps you make good decisions

You will make many decisions throughout life.

Some of those decisions will include choices about your spouse, marriage, children, finances, friends, careers and many more.

You will have to make choices in spite of your fears, anxieties, and worries.

If you have disciplined yourself to know and understand the key doctrines in the Bible you will be more equipped to make decisions based on God’s truth rather than your emotions or circumstances.

You will know what God wants you to do and you will have His support regarding your decision.

Paul tells us in Romans 12:2, .

Romans 12:2 KJV 1900

And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

If you are going to make good decisions and experience God’s best for your life then you will need to change the way you think.

The way you change the way you think is to allow God’s Word (good doctrine) to influence your thinking.

Here are some ways you can begin to learn the doctrines and truths of God’s Word:

(1) Hear it (Rom. 10:17).

Romans 10:17 KJV 1900

So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.

Find a local church that teaches God’s Word and attend faithfully.

Also, listen to good Bible teachers online and learn from them.

(2) Read it (Rev. 1:3).

Revelation 1:3 KJV 1900

Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is at hand.

Whether you read a few verses a day, a chapter a day or more.

Just read it.

Make reading the Bible a part of your lifestyle.

If you are not a good reader, listen to the Bible online, even if it’s a small portion.

When you are reading it pay attention to what God is saying to you though His Word.

Take it seriously.

(3) Study it (2 Timothy 2:15).

2 Timothy 2:15 KJV 1900

Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

Handling the word of God accurately means to know what it says and how it applies in the specifics of your life.

To do this, you will need to become a student of the Word of God.

(4) Memorize it (Psalm 119:11).

Psalm 119:11 KJV 1900

Thy word have I hid in mine heart, That I might not sin against thee.

Memorizing is usually tough for people, but I’m not saying memorize the entire Bible.

What I’m saying is when you are going through a tough time or having to make an important decision pick a few Scriptures that address your concern and memorize them so you have throughout the day in your mind and can refer to them without having to look them up.

(5) Meditate on it (Joshua 1:8).

Joshua 1:8 KJV 1900

This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.

This means to think about it.

What does it mean?

How does it apply to me?

What is my response it?

How does applying this change my thoughts, emotions, and lifestyle?

As your mind begins to change due to the impact of God’s Word on your thinking “you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect” (Romans 12:2).

Romans 12:2 KJV 1900

And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

Because your mind has been changed you will see the world’s way on one side and God’s way on the other side and you will see that God’s way is the good, pleasing, and perfect way.

When that happens you are in position to received God’s best.

V) Good doctrine helps you grow as a Christian

The more we know about God, understand His Word, have insight into His relationships to the world and people, the better we will trust Him, the more deeply will we praise Him, and the more willingly we will obey Him.

Studying the doctrines correctly will make you a more mature believer.

If it does not do this, you are not studying it in the way God intends. In fact, the Bible often connects sound doctrine with maturity in the Christian’s life.

For example, Paul wrote, (1 Timothy 6:3-4, ).

1 Timothy 6:3–4 KJV 1900

If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness; He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings,

Then Paul wrote to Titus saying, (Titus 1:1, ).

Titus 1:1 KJV 1900

Paul, a servant of God, and an apostle of Jesus Christ, according to the faith of God’s elect, and the acknowledging of the truth which is after godliness;

When the Bible talks about “godliness” or “godly lives” it is referring to someone who is living a fruitful and obedient life for God.

This doesn’t mean they are perfect or they never sin.

It does mean they have a heart and hunger for God.

They want to honor Him, give Him glory, and bring praise to His name by how they live.

As they grow in the “teaching” and “truth” of God’s Word they produce and promote “godliness” in their life – they are living more and more the way God intended for them to live.

V) Good doctrine helps nourish your soul

To nourish something is to provide the food or other substances necessary for growth, health, and good condition.

Think about a baby who is malnourished.

The child is not getting what she needs to grow properly, to be healthy and to be in good condition.

If a person is malnourished they are often sick and weak, along with other health problems.

It is vital to be well nourished if one wants to grow, be strong and healthy.

The same is true spiritually.

Many Christians find themselves weak when it comes to trusting God, unhealthy when it comes to knowing God’s will, and not in good condition when it comes to the spiritual battles that wage against them.

This doesn’t need to be.

Every believer can be strong, alert, spiritually healthy, and ready for any battle.

God’s doctrines act as the vitamins and proteins that your soul needs to be spiritually healthy.

Paul was giving Timothy some advice about ministering to others and within that counsel he told him something interesting about sound doctrine, 1 Timothy 4:6, ).

1 Timothy 4:6 KJV 1900

If thou put the brethren in remembrance of these things, thou shalt be a good minister of Jesus Christ, nourished up in the words of faith and of good doctrine, whereunto thou hast attained.

Even though Timothy has been teaching the Word of God to others, he was also being nourished by it at the same time.

Let’s take a closer look at this.

Notice that Timothy was being “constantly nourished” by good doctrine.

This means he had a regular diet of God’s Word. He was reading it, thinking about it, applying it, discussing it, questioning it, and working out the implications and applications to his life.

He was feasting on God’s Word which is often described as milk, meat, honey, water, and bread.

He was hungry for God and His Word! He could relate to the Psalmist who wrote, (Psalm 34:8, ), (Psalm 36:7-9, ), (Psalm 63:1, ), (Psalm 42:1, ).

Psalm 34:8 KJV 1900

O taste and see that the Lord is good: Blessed is the man that trusteth in him.

Psalm 36:7–9 KJV 1900

How excellent is thy lovingkindness, O God! Therefore the children of men put their trust under the shadow of thy wings. They shall be abundantly satisfied with the fatness of thy house; And thou shalt make them drink of the river of thy pleasures. For with thee is the fountain of life: In thy light shall we see light.

Psalm 63:1 KJV 1900

O God, thou art my God; early will I seek thee: My soul thirsteth for thee, My flesh longeth for thee In a dry and thirsty land, where no water is;

Psalm 42:1 KJV 1900

As the hart panteth after the water brooks, So panteth my soul after thee, O God.

The only way to be constantly nourished by God’s Word is to constantly hunger and thirst for it.

Paul goes on to say that Timothy was constantly nourished “on the words of the faith.”

This refers to the body of Christian truth contained in Scripture.

Here is where you study the lives that are described in the Bible. You learn from them.

You let God show you truth from how they lived, how they trusted, and how God intervened in their life.

You study through the various books in the Bible like Genesis, Nehemiah, Jonah, Isaiah, Matthew, Romans, 1 Peter, Jude and Revelation.

You are nourishing your soul with the “words of the faith” from the Scriptures.

Paul also says that Timothy was constantly nourished on “sound doctrine.”

This refers to the teaching that comes from the proper interpretation of Scripture.

Here is where you feast on what the Scriptures say about God, the Holy Spirit, the church, Jesus Christ, Salvation, God’s Word, and other major doctrines and subjects. You are constantly feeding yourself on these divine topics.

As a result you become stronger, wiser, more mature and well equipped to do and face whatever God would have you to do.

VI) Good doctrine helps you encourage others

Suppose a friend drops by to get your advice about a tough situation at work, problems in their marriage, difficulty with one of the teenage children, or they have received some discouraging news from the doctor.

What would you tell him?

How are you going to provide comfort and encouragement?

Invite your friend to watch your favorite movie?

Make him a banana split?

Pat your friend on the back tell him it will all work out.

How about offering something deeper, more meaningful, and something backed by Almighty God instead?

This is exactly what Paul told Titus to do, (Titus 1:9, ).

Titus 1:9 KJV 1900

Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers.

Even though this statement is directed to those who lead the church, all believers need to seriously consider three things as it relates to sound doctrine.

First, you are to hold to sound doctrine.

You are told to “hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught.”

To hold firm to something means to strongly cling or adhere to something or someone.

In this case, you have a good grip on the Word of God.

This is having a strong belief in what God says through the Scriptures.

It is being faithful to share it accurately with others.

The way you tighten your grip on God’s Word is to study it.

Know the major doctrines and how they relate to your daily life and the lives of others.

You will need to spend time in God’s Word researching and thinking through what it teaches.

You are to love the “trustworthy word” of God.

You respect it, study it, believe it, and obey it.

It is your spiritual nourishment. You are to be (1 Timothy 4:6, ).

1 Timothy 4:6 KJV 1900

If thou put the brethren in remembrance of these things, thou shalt be a good minister of Jesus Christ, nourished up in the words of faith and of good doctrine, whereunto thou hast attained.

This means you are committed to the inspiration and inerrancy of Scripture and dedicated to the authority and sufficiency of God’s Word as the only source of moral and spiritual truth.

The truth of God’s Word must be woven into the very fabric of your thinking and living.

It will be through God’s “trustworthy word” that you grow in knowledge and understanding of the character of God, the will and purpose of God, the power and glory of God, the love and mercy of God, the principles and the promises of God.

It is through the Word that you come to understand justification, sanctification, and glorification.

It is through the Word that you come to understand the enemy and his powers of darkness, and your own helplessness to resist and overcome sin apart from God.

It is through the Word that you come to understand the nature and the purpose of the church and your own role as part of the local body of believers. So hold firmly to it.

Second, you are to encourage with sound doctrine. Titus 1:9

Titus 1:9 KJV 1900

Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers.

If you are “hold[ing] firm” onto God’s “trustworthy word” and committed to live it then you are prepared to share it with others.

The reason you need to hold firmly onto God’s Word is so you are “able to give instruction in sound doctrine.”

The phrase “give instruction” (parakaleo) means to exhort and encourage.

παρακαλέω

parakaleō

par-ak-al-eh'-o

From G3844 and G2564; to call near, that is, invite, invoke (by imploration, hortation or consolation): - beseech, call for, (be of good) comfort, desire, (give) exhort (-ation), intreat, pray.

Total KJV occurrences: 108

Literally, it means “to call alongside of” for the purpose of giving strength and help.

The term was used of defense counsel in a court of law, the advocate who pleaded the cause of the accused.

Paul is using it here to remind you to use God’s Word for the purpose of giving strength and help to those the devil is accusing and misleading.

Your encouragement and advice should be from “sound doctrine.”

“Sound” (hugiaino), from which we get our English word hygienic, carries the meaning of being healthy and wholesome, referring to that which protects and preserves life.

ὑγιαίνω

hugiainō

hoog-ee-ah'ee-no

From G5199; to have sound health, that is, be well (in body); figuratively to be uncorrupt (true in doctrine): - be in health, (be safe and) sound, (be) whole (-some).

Total KJV occurrences: 12

In your instruction, counsel, and advice to others, it should be your objective to enlighten others in “doctrine” that protects and preserves their spiritual life.

Third, you are to correct with sound doctrine.

I know this is not popular, fun, or easy. Correcting someone’s wrong belief and misunderstanding of God’s Word is difficult to do, but when giving counsel and advice to others it must be done when necessary.

As a representative of Christ, you are to encourage others with sound doctrine, but you are also to “rebuke those who contradict” healthy, life-protecting, life-preserving doctrine.

To “Convince ”

ἐλέγχω

elegchō

el-eng'-kho

Of uncertain affinity; to confute, admonish: - convict, convince, tell a fault, rebuke, reprove.

Total KJV occurrences: 17

You are to graciously speak against unsound doctrine that goes under the appearance of biblical truth.

When giving advice you will find yourself having to lovingly correct false views about life after death, marriage, money, purpose in life, happiness, God, Jesus, suffering, and a list of other false understandings that are misleading people away from God’s truth and path for their life.

When done in a humble and respectful way, correcting with sound doctrine can be encouraging.

VII) Good doctrine helps you defend the gospel

Throughout your life you will be called upon to defend the gospel.

Paul understood this to be part of his purpose when he wrote, (Philippians 1:16, ).

Philippians 1:16 KJV 1900

The one preach Christ of contention, not sincerely, supposing to add affliction to my bonds:

The word was used of an official appointment and sometimes of destiny.

In the military it was used of a special assignment, such as guard duty or defense of a strategic position.

As a soldier of Christ, you have the incredible responsibility to defend the position of God’s truth.

The devil will do everything he can to mislead and misdirect people with half-truths and cause others to be confused and full of doubt in misunderstanding God’s Word.

It is your responsibility and obligation to defend the truth and to protect those in your life from false doctrine that would hurt them and lead them away from the center of God’s will for their life.

When it comes to doctrine you will find yourself having to defend the truth regarding major subjects and issues.

For example, you will need to defend the truth about salvation.

People in your life (children, spouse, people you work with, go to church with) will question the need for salvation and whether faith in Jesus is enough.

They will want to add works to salvation like being baptized, infant baptism, or some other acts of works in order to be saved.

You will have opportunities to defend creation and help others understand how God is the creator and everything was made by Him, for Him, and through Him. The fact is everyone is a theologian.

Everyone believes something about God, Jesus, the devil, heaven, hell, marriage, life, relationships, and finances.

Most of them have developed their beliefs from experiences, emotions, and shallow thinking.

They have not given serious thought, if any, to what God has to say about the subject.

These will be opportunities for you to graciously defend God’s truth on the matter.

VIII) Good doctrine helps you fulfill the Great Commission

Every believer is a part of fulfilling the great commission. You have a role in the kingdom mission of making disciples and followers of Jesus. Jesus said,(Matthew 28:19-20, ).

Matthew 28:19–20 KJV 1900

Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.

The goal of fulfilling the great commission includes evangelism, but it also includes teaching.

You may not be a pastor, but you still can be a part of teaching others God’s great truths about Himself and about life.

You can teach your children at home, share insight in a Bible study, give biblical counsel or write about it on a blog site for others to read.

If you are a pastor it is your great responsibility to teach the flock God has entrusted to you solid doctrine like the holiness and power of God, the atonement found in Christ, the guidance of the Holy Spirit, the importance of life, and the need to be willing to suffer for Christ.

As you do this you will be a part of fulfilling the Great Commission.

As I conclude these thoughts I want to give you a word of caution.

You still have some sin debris in your heart.

This is why you find it difficult to live for God and die to self.

As a result, you will notice that you are still rebellious toward God, even though you are born again and a follower of Jesus.

As you study and think about the various doctrines, you are going to be introduced to some truth that you are not going to want to accept or believe.

A serious examination of God’s truth (doctrines) and yourself will help you overcome those rebellious ideas.

The more of God’s truth you understand and accept the more you will experience the freedom that truth brings.

7 Reasons Why Doctrine Matters for Every Christian

Doctrine is simply the teaching we need to know from the Bible.

God gave us Scripture to teach us certain things about him, what he has done, and what he continues to do in the world.

Sound doctrine helps us stay on target regarding what the Bible teaches, why we believe it, and how to live to God's glory in daily life.

 Here are seven reasons why doctrine matters for every Christian.

1. Doctrine explains why we can rest in the finished work of Christ.

We can read the Bible but still not fully understand why certain events happened in the biblical story or why God included certain books.

Doctrine helps us to understand the problem—humanity’s guilty and sinful state—as well as God’s solution—his sending of his only begotten Son to live the perfectly obedient life on our behalf and be the perfect once-and-for-all sacrifice for our sin.

Through doctrine we learn that all who trust in Christ alone by grace alone through faith alone shall be saved Rom 3:23; 5:12-21; Eph 2:8-9 ).

Romans 3:23 KJV 1900

For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;

Romans 5:12–21 KJV 1900

Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned: (For until the law sin was in the world: but sin is not imputed when there is no law. Nevertheless death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over them that had not sinned after the similitude of Adam’s transgression, who is the figure of him that was to come. But not as the offence, so also is the free gift. For if through the offence of one many be dead, much more the grace of God, and the gift by grace, which is by one man, Jesus Christ, hath abounded unto many. And not as it was by one that sinned, so is the gift: for the judgment was by one to condemnation, but the free gift is of many offences unto justification. For if by one man’s offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.) Therefore as by the offence of one judgment came upon all men to condemnation; even so by the righteousness of one the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life. For as by one man’s disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous. Moreover the law entered, that the offence might abound. But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound: That as sin hath reigned unto death, even so might grace reign through righteousness unto eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord.

Ephesians 2:8–9 KJV 1900

For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.

Furthermore, if we don’t read all the “to-do’s” in the Bible in context, we might mistakenly think we are right with God by our own obedience and kind deeds. Doctrine helps us to know that we are only right with God based on the finished work of Christ.

Doctrine also shows us why it is important for Christians to try with all their might to keep God’s commands as their rightful sacrifice of praise and thanksgiving to their Savior.

2. Doctrine helps us understand how God is a relational God.

When we learn about the Trinity and how God is one in essence and three in persons, we can have confidence that God is not some stoic figure who made the world but doesn’t care for or love it.

The love between the persons of the Trinity (Matt 3;17 ; John 14:31; Gal 4:6) overflows to God’s creation, even to the point that the Father gave his only begotten Son to accomplish salvation for fallen humans.

Matthew 3 KJV 1900

In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judaea, And saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. For this is he that was spoken of by the prophet Esaias, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. And the same John had his raiment of camel’s hair, and a leathern girdle about his loins; and his meat was locusts and wild honey. Then went out to him Jerusalem, and all Judaea, and all the region round about Jordan, And were baptized of him in Jordan, confessing their sins. But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees come to his baptism, he said unto them, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance: And think not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, that God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham. And now also the axe is laid unto the root of the trees: therefore every tree which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire: Whose fan is in his hand, and he will throughly purge his floor, and gather his wheat into the garner; but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire. Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to Jordan unto John, to be baptized of him. But John forbad him, saying, I have need to be baptized of thee, and comest thou to me? And Jesus answering said unto him, Suffer it to be so now: for thus it becometh us to fulfil all righteousness. Then he suffered him. And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him: And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.

Matthew 17 KJV 1900

And after six days Jesus taketh Peter, James, and John his brother, and bringeth them up into an high mountain apart, And was transfigured before them: and his face did shine as the sun, and his raiment was white as the light. And, behold, there appeared unto them Moses and Elias talking with him. Then answered Peter, and said unto Jesus, Lord, it is good for us to be here: if thou wilt, let us make here three tabernacles; one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elias. While he yet spake, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them: and behold a voice out of the cloud, which said, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye him. And when the disciples heard it, they fell on their face, and were sore afraid. And Jesus came and touched them, and said, Arise, and be not afraid. And when they had lifted up their eyes, they saw no man, save Jesus only. And as they came down from the mountain, Jesus charged them, saying, Tell the vision to no man, until the Son of man be risen again from the dead. And his disciples asked him, saying, Why then say the scribes that Elias must first come? And Jesus answered and said unto them, Elias truly shall first come, and restore all things. But I say unto you, That Elias is come already, and they knew him not, but have done unto him whatsoever they listed. Likewise shall also the Son of man suffer of them. Then the disciples understood that he spake unto them of John the Baptist. And when they were come to the multitude, there came to him a certain man, kneeling down to him, and saying, Lord, have mercy on my son: for he is lunatick, and sore vexed: for ofttimes he falleth into the fire, and oft into the water. And I brought him to thy disciples, and they could not cure him. Then Jesus answered and said, O faithless and perverse generation, how long shall I be with you? how long shall I suffer you? bring him hither to me. And Jesus rebuked the devil; and he departed out of him: and the child was cured from that very hour. Then came the disciples to Jesus apart, and said, Why could not we cast him out? And Jesus said unto them, Because of your unbelief: for verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you. Howbeit this kind goeth not out but by prayer and fasting. And while they abode in Galilee, Jesus said unto them, The Son of man shall be betrayed into the hands of men: And they shall kill him, and the third day he shall be raised again. And they were exceeding sorry. And when they were come to Capernaum, they that received tribute money came to Peter, and said, Doth not your master pay tribute? He saith, Yes. And when he was come into the house, Jesus prevented him, saying, What thinkest thou, Simon? of whom do the kings of the earth take custom or tribute? of their own children, or of strangers? Peter saith unto him, Of strangers. Jesus saith unto him, Then are the children free. Notwithstanding, lest we should offend them, go thou to the sea, and cast an hook, and take up the fish that first cometh up; and when thou hast opened his mouth, thou shalt find a piece of money: that take, and give unto them for me and thee.

John 14:31 KJV 1900

But that the world may know that I love the Father; and as the Father gave me commandment, even so I do. Arise, let us go hence.

Galatians 4:6 KJV 1900

And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father.

Doctrine instructs us regarding the Holy Spirit’s work in salvation as he convicts people of their sin and conforms them to the image of Christ (Rom 5:5).

Romans 5:5 KJV 1900

And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.

3. Doctrine explains why we feel empty apart from God.

God made us for a purpose, and that purpose is to glorify him and enjoy him forever!

This is why we can never feel fulfilled apart from him.

God made us to have a joyful relationship with him, but we can’t apart from Christ because of God’s utter holiness and our guilt and indwelling sin.

Even though we are different kinds of beings and we cannot reach up to God no matter how hard we try, he condescends to be in a loving relationship with us in Christ—and this is glorious!

4. Doctrine teaches us how to worship God.

Doctrine helps us to worship God with more joy, because we can better comprehend how Israel’s creed (“Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one”) is true and at the same time recognize that the Father is God, Jesus is God, and the Holy Spirit is God (Ps 139:7-8 ; John 10:30; 1 Cor 8:6 ).

Psalm 139:7–8 KJV 1900

Whither shall I go from thy spirit? Or whither shall I flee from thy presence? If I ascend up into heaven, thou art there: If I make my bed in hell, behold, thou art there.

John 10:30 KJV 1900

I and my Father are one.

1 Corinthians 8:6 KJV 1900

But to us there is but one God, the Father, of whom are all things, and we in him; and one Lord Jesus Christ, by whom are all things, and we by him.

When we hear God’s Word rightly preached, partake in the Sacraments, pray, and sing songs of worship, doctrine explains to us that we are always approaching our heavenly Father in Jesus’ name (because of his work on our behalf) by the Holy Spirit (who indwells and sanctifies us).

5. Doctrine guides us in how to love God and our neighbor.

Because doctrine teaches us that our right standing before God is based on Christ’s work and not our own, we don’t have to view our good deeds as ways to make God love us better.

We also don’t have to worry about being popular or esteemed before people.

God already loves us fully in Christ, and that’s all the love any of us ever needs.

We are God’s children, and our inheritance is secure.

We can love God and our neighbor not based on a need to perform but rather out of tremendous gratitude for all God has done for us and as our rightful duty as his children.

Doctrine reminds us that it is God’s will for us to grow in holiness and be conformed to the image of Christ (Rom 8:29 .

Romans 8:29 KJV 1900

For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren.

6. Doctrine teaches us that our hope is not in vain.

We don’t have to worry about whether or not the Bible is true.

Through learning about the major covenants of the Bible and the amazing continuity of Scripture, we can only marvel that everything we read about in Genesis, Exodus, Joshua, and the rest of the books of the Bible is inextricably linked together by God’s promise in Christ.

It seems impossible for so many different authors over such a long period of time to write sixty-six books that all point to God’s redemptive plan to redeem the world; yet, this is exactly what we find in the Bible, because the Holy Spirit inspired the authors ( 2 Tim 3:16; 2 Peter 1: 21 ).

2 Timothy 3:16 KJV 1900

All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:

2 Peter 1:21 KJV 1900

For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.

From Gen 3:15 , where God promises to send the Seed who will crush the head of the serpent, to Revelation 22, where we learn that the Lamb of God shall sit on God’s throne forever, God’s Word gives us knowledge of the hope that will never disappoint Christians.

Genesis 3:15 KJV 1900

And I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel.

Revelation 22 KJV 1900

And he shewed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding out of the throne of God and of the Lamb. In the midst of the street of it, and on either side of the river, was there the tree of life, which bare twelve manner of fruits, and yielded her fruit every month: and the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations. And there shall be no more curse: but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it; and his servants shall serve him: And they shall see his face; and his name shall be in their foreheads. And there shall be no night there; and they need no candle, neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them light: and they shall reign for ever and ever. And he said unto me, These sayings are faithful and true: and the Lord God of the holy prophets sent his angel to shew unto his servants the things which must shortly be done. Behold, I come quickly: blessed is he that keepeth the sayings of the prophecy of this book. And I John saw these things, and heard them. And when I had heard and seen, I fell down to worship before the feet of the angel which shewed me these things. Then saith he unto me, See thou do it not: for I am thy fellowservant, and of thy brethren the prophets, and of them which keep the sayings of this book: worship God. And he saith unto me, Seal not the sayings of the prophecy of this book: for the time is at hand. He that is unjust, let him be unjust still: and he which is filthy, let him be filthy still: and he that is righteous, let him be righteous still: and he that is holy, let him be holy still. And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last. Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city. For without are dogs, and sorcerers, and whoremongers, and murderers, and idolaters, and whosoever loveth and maketh a lie. I Jesus have sent mine angel to testify unto you these things in the churches. I am the root and the offspring of David, and the bright and morning star. And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely. For I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book, If any man shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book: And if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life, and out of the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book. He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly. Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.

This hope is based on the fact of the bodily resurrection of Christ, who shall return one day to consummate his kingdom (1 Cor 15:12-28 ).

1 Corinthians 15:12–28 KJV 1900

Now if Christ be preached that he rose from the dead, how say some among you that there is no resurrection of the dead? But if there be no resurrection of the dead, then is Christ not risen: And if Christ be not risen, then is our preaching vain, and your faith is also vain. Yea, and we are found false witnesses of God; because we have testified of God that he raised up Christ: whom he raised not up, if so be that the dead rise not. For if the dead rise not, then is not Christ raised: And if Christ be not raised, your faith is vain; ye are yet in your sins. Then they also which are fallen asleep in Christ are perished. If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable. But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept. For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead. For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive. But every man in his own order: Christ the firstfruits; afterward they that are Christ’s at his coming. Then cometh the end, when he shall have delivered up the kingdom to God, even the Father; when he shall have put down all rule and all authority and power. For he must reign, till he hath put all enemies under his feet. The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death. For he hath put all things under his feet. But when he saith, all things are put under him, it is manifest that he is excepted, which did put all things under him. And when all things shall be subdued unto him, then shall the Son also himself be subject unto him that put all things under him, that God may be all in all.

7. Doctrine helps us to pick up our cross and follow our King.

Because doctrine teaches us the great truths we need to know, we can pick up our cross and follow Christ (Matt 16:24).

Matthew 16:24 KJV 1900

Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.

We don’t need to be afraid—no matter what God allows in our life—because we know he has a plan and his plan is good.

We also know God is great as well as good, and we can trust him even when the world doesn’t seem to make sense.

We don’t need to regret anything that we are leaving behind, because God has something far better for us than anything this world can ever offer: peace with him and everlasting life in his presence.

Don’t let anyone lead you to believe doctrine is unimportant, irrelevant, or confusing.

We must always be diligent to seek out sound doctrinal teaching and learn how to distinguish biblical truth from error, just as the Bereans did (Acts 17:11).

Acts 17:11 KJV 1900

These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.

Doctrine is essential because it helps us to understand the biblical truths we need to know to have lasting joy, peace, and confidence in Christ.

Why is sound doctrine essential for a Christian’s discipleship and growth?

Answer

Sound doctrine is essential for a Christian’s discipleship and growth because what we believe determines how we live.

A Christian will only grow in loving and worshiping God as he understands more and more about God’s holy character, and infinite power, and sovereign grace (1 Pet. 1:16; Heb. 13:5-6; Tit. 2:11-14).

1 Peter 1:16 KJV 1900

Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.

Hebrews 13:5–6 KJV 1900

Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.

Titus 2:11–14 KJV 1900

For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.

We worship God because of who he is (Ps. 29:2).

Psalm 29:2 KJV 1900

Give unto the Lord the glory due unto his name; Worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness.

Therefore, the more we know about God, the more we will be inspired to worship him.

A Christian will grow in holiness as he grows in understanding God’s holiness, the sinfulness of sin, the propitiatory work of Christ for all who believe, and the promise of Holy Spirit-given obedience (Isa. 6:3; Rom. 1:18; Rom. 3:21-26; 1 Cor. 6:19-20; 2 Cor. 3).

Isaiah 6:3 KJV 1900

And one cried unto another, and said, Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord of hosts: The whole earth is full of his glory.

Romans 1:18 KJV 1900

For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness;

Romans 3:21–26 KJV 1900

But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets; Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference: For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God; To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus.

1 Corinthians 6:19–20 KJV 1900

What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.

2 Corinthians 3 KJV 1900

Do we begin again to commend ourselves? or need we, as some others, epistles of commendation to you, or letters of commendation from you? Ye are our epistle written in our hearts, known and read of all men: Forasmuch as ye are manifestly declared to be the epistle of Christ ministered by us, written not with ink, but with the Spirit of the living God; not in tables of stone, but in fleshy tables of the heart. And such trust have we through Christ to God-ward: Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God; Who also hath made us able ministers of the new testament; not of the letter, but of the spirit: for the letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life. But if the ministration of death, written and engraven in stones, was glorious, so that the children of Israel could not stedfastly behold the face of Moses for the glory of his countenance; which glory was to be done away: How shall not the ministration of the spirit be rather glorious? For if the ministration of condemnation be glory, much more doth the ministration of righteousness exceed in glory. For even that which was made glorious had no glory in this respect, by reason of the glory that excelleth. For if that which is done away was glorious, much more that which remaineth is glorious. Seeing then that we have such hope, we use great plainness of speech: And not as Moses, which put a vail over his face, that the children of Israel could not stedfastly look to the end of that which is abolished: But their minds were blinded: for until this day remaineth the same vail untaken away in the reading of the old testament; which vail is done away in Christ. But even unto this day, when Moses is read, the vail is upon their heart. Nevertheless when it shall turn to the Lord, the vail shall be taken away. Now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty. But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord.

A Christian will grow in humility as he grows in understanding just how exalted God is above all creatures, and what a great offense sin is against God, and just how humble Christ became in order to save him from his sin (Isa. 59:2, 55:8-9; Phil. 2:5-11).

Isaiah 59:2 KJV 1900

But your iniquities have separated between you and your God, And your sins have hid his face from you, that he will not hear.

Isaiah 55:8–9 KJV 1900

For my thoughts are not your thoughts, Neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, So are my ways higher than your ways, And my thoughts than your thoughts.

Philippians 2:5–11 KJV 1900

Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

A Christian will grow in love for others as he grows in understanding how God has loved him in Christ (1 Jn. 4:10-11).

1 John 4:10–11 KJV 1900

Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another.

A Christian will grow in sharing the gospel with others as he grows in his own understanding of the gospel.

A Christian will only be able to instruct other Christians as he grows in his own knowledge of the Scriptures.

The entire Christian life depends on sound doctrine: we can’t worship God or grow in holiness or serve others or share the gospel without it.

The Importance of Bible Doctrine

The word “doctrine” simply means teaching. Bible doctrine, therefore, refers to the teaching of the Scriptures.

Since the days of the apostles, Bible-believing people have had an emphasis upon sound doctrine, but today doctrine is often downplayed in favor of ecumenical unity.

The following statement by popular singer Pat Boone, a charismatic, typifies the attitude that is common among ecumenists: “Doctrine divides, experience unites. We don’t all have our doctrine all completely correct, but God doesn’t judge us on our understanding of doctrine.” (August 17, 2001). HOW IMPORTANT IS DOCTRINE?

According to the Word of God, sound doctrine is extremely important. 1. The two Greek words translated “doctrine” in the King James Bible, didaskalia and didache, are also translated “teacheth” Rom 12:7) and “learning” (Rom 15:4). These Greek words are used more than 140 times in the New Testament, which shows how important doctrine is before God. 2. Doctrine and its companion terms are referred to 59 times in 1 and 2 Timothy alone. 3. “The truth” is referred to 10 times in 2 and 3 John alone. The apostle John said, “I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth” (3 Jn. 4). 4. 1 Tim 1:3 says that no false doctrine is to be allowed, which is a very narrow view of doctrinal purity.

Romans 12:7 KJV 1900

Or ministry, let us wait on our ministering: or he that teacheth, on teaching;

Romans 15:4 KJV 1900

For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope.

3 John 4 KJV 1900

I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth.

1 Timothy 1:3 KJV 1900

As I besought thee to abide still at Ephesus, when I went into Macedonia, that thou mightest charge some that they teach no other doctrine,

OTHER BIBLE TERMS THAT REFER TO DOCTRINE

“truth” (1 Tim 2:4 “the faith” (1 Ti. 3:9; 2 Ti. 3:8; Tit. 1:13) “wholesome words” (1 Ti. 6:3) “sound words” (2 Ti. 1:13).

1 Timothy 2:4 KJV 1900

Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.

1 Timothy 3:9 KJV 1900

Holding the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience.

2 Timothy 3:8 KJV 1900

Now as Jannes and Jambres withstood Moses, so do these also resist the truth: men of corrupt minds, reprobate concerning the faith.

Titus 1:13 KJV 1900

This witness is true. Wherefore rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith;

1 Timothy 6:3 KJV 1900

If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness;

2 Timothy 1:13 KJV 1900

Hold fast the form of sound words, which thou hast heard of me, in faith and love which is in Christ Jesus.

CAN WE KNOW SOUND DOCTRINE? In the previous quote by singer Pat Boone, we are told that, “We don’t all have our doctrine all completely correct, but God doesn’t judge us on our understanding of doctrine.”

The Lord Jesus Christ, though, said that a believer can know sound doctrine. 1. We know sound doctrine through obedience John 17:7 .

John 17:7 KJV 1900

Now they have known that all things whatsoever thou hast given me are of thee.

If a man is open to the truth and willing to obey God, the Lord will give him wisdom so that he can discern sound doctrine from false.

In Prov 1:23 God says, “Turn you at my reproof: behold, I will pour out my spirit unto you, I will make known my words unto you.”

Proverbs 1:23 KJV 1900

Turn you at my reproof: Behold, I will pour out my spirit unto you, I will make known my words unto you.

God has promised to make His truth known to those who repent and submit to Him. 2. We know sound doctrine through continuing in God’s Word John 8:31-32

John 8:31–32 KJV 1900

Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.

In 2 Tim 2:15 the believer is commanded to rightly divide the Word.

2 Timothy 2:15 KJV 1900

Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

This refers to interpreting it properly and knowing its doctrine correctly.

Would God require a Christian to rightly divide the Word of truth if He did not intend to give him the ability to do that?

This verse indicates that God will hold the Christian accountable for this task, because the one who rightly divides the Word of truth is approved.

It is implied that the one who does not rightly divide the truth is disapproved.

This means that Pat Boone and other ecumenists are wrong when they say that God does not hold the believer accountable to know sound doctrine. 3. We know sound doctrine through the Holy Spirit.

1 John 2 :20-21 1 says, “But ye have an unction from the Holy One, and ye know all things.

1 John 2:20–21 KJV 1900

But ye have an unction from the Holy One, and ye know all things. I have not written unto you because ye know not the truth, but because ye know it, and that no lie is of the truth.

I have not written unto you because ye know not the truth, but because ye know it, and that no lie is of the truth.”

1 John 2:27 says further, “But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him.”

1 John 2:27 KJV 1900

But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him.

Thus the Scriptures plainly state that the believer has the Holy Spirit to teach him and he can know the truth. If the ecumenical philosophy is correct and a believer cannot be certain of sound doctrine, the commandments and promises of God make no sense.

OTHER BIBLE FACTS ABOUT DOCTRINE

1. - We are to continue in the apostles’ doctrine ( Acts 2:42 ).

Acts 2:42 KJV 1900

And they continued stedfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.

2. - The apostles filled Jerusalem with doctrine ( Acts 5:28).

Acts 5:28 KJV 1900

Saying, Did not we straitly command you that ye should not teach in this name? and, behold, ye have filled Jerusalem with your doctrine, and intend to bring this man’s blood upon us.

3. - We are saved by believing the right doctrine ( Rom 6:17 ; 1 John 5:20 ; 2 Jn. 9).

Romans 6:17 KJV 1900

But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you.

1 John 5:20 KJV 1900

And we know that the Son of God is come, and hath given us an understanding, that we may know him that is true, and we are in him that is true, even in his Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God, and eternal life.

2 John 9 KJV 1900

Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son.

4. - We are to separate from those who teach false doctrine Rom 16:17 .

Romans 16:17 KJV 1900

Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them.

5. - We must be careful of winds of false doctrine (Eph 4:14).

Ephesians 4:14 KJV 1900

That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;

6. - No false doctrine is to be allowed (1 Tim 1:3 ).

1 Timothy 1:3 KJV 1900

As I besought thee to abide still at Ephesus, when I went into Macedonia, that thou mightest charge some that they teach no other doctrine,

7. - The preacher is to give himself to doctrine (1 Tim 4:13).

1 Timothy 4:13 KJV 1900

Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine.

8. - The preacher is to take heed to doctrine (1 Tim 4:16).

1 Timothy 4:16 KJV 1900

Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.

9. - Preachers who labor in doctrine are to be rewarded (1 Tim 5:17).

1 Timothy 5:17 KJV 1900

Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine.

10. - Sound doctrine is to be adorned with godly living (1 Tim 6:1,3; Titus 2:1).

1 Timothy 6:1 KJV 1900

Let as many servants as are under the yoke count their own masters worthy of all honour, that the name of God and his doctrine be not blasphemed.

1 Timothy 6:3 KJV 1900

If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness;

Titus 2:1 KJV 1900

But speak thou the things which become sound doctrine:

11. - The Bible is given for doctrine (2 Tim 3:16).

2 Timothy 3:16 KJV 1900

All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:

12. - The Bible is to be preached with doctrine (2 Tim 4:2).

2 Timothy 4:2 KJV 1900

Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.

13. - The last days is characterized by a turning from sound doctrine (2 Tim 4:3).

2 Timothy 4:3 KJV 1900

For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;

14. - The preacher must be able to use doctrine to protect the church (Titus 1:9).

Titus 1:9 KJV 1900

Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers.

15. - Our doctrine is to be uncorrupt (Titus 2:10).

Titus 2:10 KJV 1900

Not purloining, but shewing all good fidelity; that they may adorn the doctrine of God our Saviour in all things.

16. - We abide in Christ by sound doctrine (1 John 2:24-27).

1 John 2:24–27 KJV 1900

Let that therefore abide in you, which ye have heard from the beginning. If that which ye have heard from the beginning shall remain in you, ye also shall continue in the Son, and in the Father. And this is the promise that he hath promised us, even eternal life. These things have I written unto you concerning them that seduce you. But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him.

17. - True Christian love is grounded in truth or sound Bible doctrine (2 Jn. 1; 3 Jn. 1).

2 John 1 KJV 1900

The elder unto the elect lady and her children, whom I love in the truth; and not I only, but also all they that have known the truth;

3 John 1 KJV 1900

The elder unto the wellbeloved Gaius, whom I love in the truth.

18. - Those who abide not in sound doctrine are not of God and are not be to received (2 Jn. 9-10).

2 John 9–10 KJV 1900

Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son. If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed: