Sound Biblical Truth Matters

Some say that biblical doctrine is not important, that it's not worth the disagreements and division it causes.
Those who do not hold the doctrines of scripture in high regard typically refer to those who do as close-minded, narrow-minded, judgmental, legalists, and fundamentalist.

In our culture today, if you have not been referred to with terms such as these, you likely do not stand on the firm foundation of God's word, and friendship with the world may hold a greater place in your heart than the Word of God.



Christ never held to a message that was inclusive to all, His message was quite exclusive, and often divisive.

You'll find opposition and attacks even from within the camp of fellow believers when you hold fast to the truth of scripture; this should not be so. However, with the constant barrage of the words, tolerance and acceptance through media these days; words like truth and righteousness have all but faded into obscurity.

Many who call themselves believers cave under the pressure of tolerance and think that taking any kind of a stand on anything is unloving, self-righteous, and judgmental. However, the Scriptures say that those who do not agree with the sound words of Christ and doctrine conforming to godliness are conceited and understand nothing (1 Timothy 6:3-4).

A professing Christian man once told me that he was ashamed to call himself a Christian simply because, as a Christian myself, I chose to use biblical discernment and spoke against the message of those who preach a false gospel. Scripture tells us plainly to beware of those who preach a false gospel, they are wolves in sheeps clothing; mark them out and warn others about them. He clearly disagreed with me even though scriptural evidence to the fact was quite plentiful.

Titus 1:10-13 tells us that false teachers must be silenced, that the rebellious and deceivers are to be rebuked. A warning is found in 2 Timothy 2:16 where false teachers are even called out by name.

Regarding sound biblical doctrine, Dr. John MacArthur puts it this way, "Sound, biblical doctrine is a necessary aspect of true wisdom and authentic faith. The attitude that scorns doctrine while elevating feelings or blind trust cannot legitimately be called faith at all, even if it masquerades as Christianity. It is actually an irrational form of unbelief. God holds us accountable for what we believe as well as how we think about the truth He has revealed. All Scripture testifies to the fact that God wants us to know and understand the truth. He wants us to be wise. His will is that we use our minds. We are supposed to think, meditate, and above all, to be discerning." He goes on to say, "The content of our faith is crucial. Sincerity is not sufficient."

In other words; correct doctrine matters.

Quoting Scripture does not necessarily mean the truth is being taught. The devil quoted scripture when he tempted Jesus in the wilderness in Matthew 4:1-7. The devil disguises his deceit with bits of truth.

The Bible is filled with warnings against false teachings. God warns His people that some who claim to speak for Him are actually false teachers (Matt. 7:15; Jeremiah 14:15; Jeremiah 23:16,32; Ezekiel 13:6; Acts 20:29-30; 2 Corinthians 2:17; 2 Peter 2:1-3; Romans 16:17-18; 2 Timothy 4:2-4).

The Bible has no lack of verses regarding the importance of sound doctrine.

Test everything and hold on to what us good (1 Thessalonians 5:21).
Examine the Scriptures (Acts 17:11).
Judge the believer (1 Corinthians 5:12-13).
Testing those who profess Christ (Revelation 2:2).
Be prepared to correct (2Timothy 4:2-4).
Timothy urged to command men not to teach false doctrine (1 Timothy 1:3-4).

Seeking after the truth by studying the Bible is very important in the life of the believer. Their goal should be to defend the truth with love.

Be sensible in all things with purity in doctrine (Titus 2:6-8).
A good servant is nourished on the words of faith and sound doctrine (1 Timothy 4:6).
Retain the standard of the sound words of Christ (2 Timothy 1:13).
Love rejoices in the truth (1 Corinthians 13:6).
Do not be carried away by strange teaching (Hebrews 13:9).
Accurately handle the word of truth (2 Timothy 2:15).
Despise falsehood and love God's law (Psalm 119:163).
Trust in the Lord and not your own understanding (Proverbs 3:5).
We should speak sound doctrine (Titus 2:1).

As you can see, a correct understanding of Scripture is critical.

Christian, do not be afraid to stand firm on the true gospel of Christ, do not fear the assaults of man, rather fear God and trust Him. You may be blasted in these days for your commitment to Christ but will certainly be rewarded in the life to come, so do not be weary or faint but trust in the word of the Lord.