John 6:63
It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.
2 Timothy 3:16
All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
A common debate among church-goers is often centered around the topic of “doctrine.” Some will say that we should encourage one another and simply not get into doctrine.
I have even heard some say, “doctrine divides.” While Christians do have differing viewpoints and various levels of dedication to Christ, there should never be any division or debate concerning the doctrine of our Lord Jesus Christ.
When you put words into His mouth, you corrupt and compromise the teaching of Jesus Christ and deliver a message that, while it may not be far off, is indeed different from what His word clearly teaches.
As a pastor, it is my duty (delight) to preach and teach the Word of God. I am called to tell it like it is. I am instructed to study, preach, teach and “make the sense thereof.” In other words, God’s Word instructs preachers to know what the Bible says and then teach it like it says, in such a way that anybody can clearly understand the Word of God. It’s not complicated. The Bible is God’s Word to people and God wants people to understand what He said and taught.
By the way, the very word “doctrine” means “teachings.” So, to say that we should avoid doctrine would be saying that we can have church and just stay away from the teachings of Jesus Christ. I can’t do that.
I get it. Really, I do. What people mean to say is that we should avoid discussing and debating over the distinctions of the various “flavors” of churches all over town. On the contrary, the scriptures are clear that there should be no division among us. Also, the Apostle Paul confronted the Apostle Peter concerning division within Christianity and straightened him out on his error.
There is one God and He sent His only begotten Son, Jesus Christ, to be the saviour of the world. Upon His directive, the spirit of God was sent, and with the completed Word of God, we have all we need to fulfill our great commission and to train believers in the true doctrine of our Lord Jesus Christ. Simple.
We can conclude that things which are different are not the same. If a person’s belief or the doctrine they teach is different from the Bible, then you and I can conclude they are holding to a false doctrine. Our life is too short to make the mistake of falling for and following false doctrines.
With a firm grip on the Bible, we should believe, practice, teach and preach the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth … right out of the Word of God. When we make doctrine about us, our heritage or our traditions, we silence the author Himself and keep Christ in the background. When we let God be true, then we will be humble in our approach to His Word, knowing that whatever He says is right … whether we like it or not.
Over the next few weeks, I intend to cover topics of doctrine that the Bible teaches and hopefully be a help and blessing to those who want to know what God said. Jesus said that His word is truth. (John 17:17) Jesus said that His word is life. (John 6:63) Remember, it is God’s Word that is right, not me, or some other pastor or church … just Jesus.
Jesus Christ is the Son of God and has given Himself to be your personal saviour. Jesus died in your place, paying for all your sins. He died, was buried and rose from the dead to prove that He is God’s son and will be your Lord and Saviour, if you will turn to Him and by faith believe on Him.
Ask Jesus to forgive your sins and to save your soul. Turn your life over to Him and believe that He alone can and will save you today.
