That Dirty Word

If you want to say a dirty word in Church to get a rise our of many people or to get a small group to look at you in shock and horror that your mouth could utter such a word , I have one for you. Are you ready for it , hope your sitting down , doctrine. OK I said it ,are you turning red yet?

In all seriousness if you mention the importance of and need of sound doctrine , some people look at you as if you have two heads. I have heard it divides , not unites , it leads to arrogance and  is cold . That its not practical. Plus the these two classics ,  all we need is just Jesus and the Bible.The first Christians didn't line up to study or know doctrine.

 The basic definition  of doctrine - a : something that is taught b : a principle or position or the body of principles in a branch of knowledge or system of belief. Merriam-Webster 

In reality doctrine is a basic core of beliefs that is taught. Once one assents to be a Christian ,  in the normal pattern of growth will enter into reading and studying the Bible,attending Church to hear preaching , join a small group and whether they realize it or not , begin to learn doctrine. Doctrine is the anchor that gives a believer strength to walk in this world and defend the gospel .

Those who say all they need is Jesus , ignore the very aspect of what Jesus calls us to be and do. We are to embrace His truth , that truth is the word of God. In the word it reveals who God is , what He has done and is doing . To open the word is to engage in doctrine, To say that teaching doctrine is not present in the Bible is to ignore what God has said . In fact Paul even makes the ability of teaching sound doctrine as a absolute task of the pastor(read through the Pastoral Epistles).

It is true that doctrine became clear and systematized once the canon of scripture was closed and established.
Once the Holy Spirit finished His task of inspiring the men called to be used to give us God's word , then once  the canon was established , it would naturally lead to doctrines to be established and taught. Doctrine is the life blood of a healthy church and a healthy Christian .

Doctrine at its very core is knowing God . In knowing Him should not leave one cold or create division (false teaching does that) but anchor your soul when deception comes your way and give you peace when storms assail you. So don't be afraid of that dirty word but find some good books that will help you grow in God's word and your faith.

Recommended Books : Knowing God -J.I Packer , The Christian Life -Sinclair Ferguson , Essentials of the Christian Faith - RC Sproul

Verse Of The Day  :   [2:1] But as for you, teach what accords with sound doctrine.
                               (Titus 2:1 ESV)