TUESDAY April 18, 2017
Importance of Doctrine
But as for you, speak the things which are proper for sound doctrine: - Titus 2:1
Before we move on to Nehemiah 4, I want to touch on the importance of doctrine. There are seven major doctrines in the Bible that we need to know. As we read through the Bible we will touch on each of the doctrines. This will keep us in balance and harmony with the Scriptures.
There are four main, basic doctrines in salvation: regeneration––the new birth, being born of the Holy Spirit. Justification–– trusting God by faith and being in right standing with Him. Sanctification––holiness, being set apart by God daily. Glorification––our future perfect state, in God’s presence when we have our new bodies, and we no longer have our original sin nature.
When dealing with doctrinal conflicts there are three basic questions to prove whether something is sound doctrine: Can you find it taught in the Gospels? Is it taught in the book of Acts and can you find it written in the Epistles? If not, then we do not accept it––we only accept those things that are written for our examples. So, we really do not have to argue about doctrine.
Jesus, in His ministry was teaching, preaching and healing. There was no pattern when He healed someone. In a church service the elders should lay hands on the people (James 5:14), and God does the healing––it is His sovereignty. Nobody should get the credit for anything; it is all the power of God.
We are so fortunate to have been taught by Chuck Smith. As men of God it is really important to give to others what we have learned and to follow the model of Calvary Chapel––to pass on the vision that God gave to him. It is our responsibility to pass on the stories in the Old Testament as we teach God’s Word line upon line to the next generation.
And the things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.
~2 Timothy 2:2~
For more from Raul Ries, please visit Somebodylovesyouradio.org!