Posts

Showing posts with the label sound teaching

Wholesome words and sound doctrine

Image
Paul implored Timothy to adhere strictly to the teachings he had imparted, emphasizing the need to remain true to the doctrine which was divinely revealed to him. In 1Tim.6:3-5, Paul closes his epistle with the statement in the image above. Paul presses upon the need to be faithful to the message given him by revelation, which he says in Tit.1:2-3 was, "promised before the ages began" but made known "in due time… through preaching which is committed unto me…" Today however, it is sad to note how religious leaders have either replaced, or completely skewed, the doctrine that was committed to Paul by Jesus Christ. This has resulted in confusion and division within the Church, teaching a different doctrine that puts focus on Jesus of Nazareth, social improvement, and political reform, and keeps believers in an ignorant state towards truth, stunting their spiritual growth.  More than ever, we need to take to heart this warning and admonition of Paul and come back to tea...

Equipping believers for every aspect of life and godliness

Image
In 2Tim.3:16, Paul encourages Timothy to use the scriptures as a powerful tool in his ministry. Teaching (what you need to know): Impartation of knowledge and understanding of God's Word. Teaching guides one in the principles and doctrines of the truth, enabling learning and growth in the faith. Reproof (behaviour; does it match the doctrine?): The act of correcting or pointing out errors in belief or behaviour according to the Word. It's about moral and spiritual discipline aiming to bring one back to the right path when one has strayed. Correction (amendment to match doctrine): It implies rectifying mistakes or misconceptions. It is associated with adjustment to align with one's doctrine. Training in Righteousness (conduct and discipline): Instruction that develops a character that's in accordance with God's standards of righteousness. It involves the pursuit of virtue as defined by the Word. These 4 elements together comprehensively equip believers for every ...

But speak thou the things which become sound doctrine

Image
People often see their own faults in others. For example, a liar believes that everyone else is also a liar, and a thief sees everyone as suspect. Similarly, an unbeliever cannot comprehend how someone can have faith. An unbeliever considers faith to be foolish. Judas, who was consumed by greed, couldn't appreciate the sacrifice of the Lord at the supper. When our minds and consciences are corrupted, being devoid of sound doctrine, our judgment becomes flawed. We can no longer distinguish between truth and error. We struggle to discern what is good and tend to follow popular leaders. Churches today are filled with people who judge a doctrine based on its popularity or the appearance of the person delivering it. Paul speaks of those who focus solely on earthly matters as enemies of the cross who cause many to turn away from Christ because they deny Him through their deeds. There is a simple remedy! Paul tells us to hold fast to the faithful Word of God and speak the things which be...

Wholesome words

Image
For many people, the choice of minister or church they attend is not important. They typically say that all preachers and denominations share similar beliefs and teachings. This channel is not convinced! Some individuals opt to ignore doctrinal differences and focus solely on fellowship around the love of Jesus (whatever that means!). It is crucial for such people to recognize that they have failed to distinguish between sound doctrine and corrupt communication, as well as spiritual health and spiritual danger. No one taking the Bible at face value should ever be so casual and tolerant about what they believe. “Wholesome” is translated “sound” (healthy—1 Tim 1:10; 2 Tim 1:13; 2 Tim 4:3; Tit 1:9,13; Tit 2:1,2). These “wholesome words” are the words of Jesus Christ through our Apostle Paul. Anyone who does not submit to these words has a corrupt mind and doctrine—and we're instructed to withdraw from them (see v5), else their deceived communication could be detrimental to our spiritu...