Watch You Doctrine

 

The Word:

“Take heed to yourself and to the doctrine. Continue in them, for in doing this you will save both yourself and those who hear you.” – 1 Timothy 4:16 NKJV

A Reflexion:

Ignorant and proud of it, right? My college English teacher would say that at the beginning of our class. I found that to be humorous every time he said it. But, ignorance of biblical doctrine (teaching) is not a laughing matter. Let me explain, many intelligent people have neglected to study the Bible in context. Some of the best workers for the kingdom are in this category. I’m not casting stones because I am a work in progress myself.

I have heard well-meaning Christians talk negatively about doctrine. They say that doctrine is not relevant to them – which is a doctrine itself!

You can love God, be an authentic believer, and quote a Scripture that is not the author’s intended meaning. (The only One who understands the Bible perfectly, is the Holy Spirit who inspired it.)

Questions:

We all have favorite verses, but do we understand them in light of the whole chapter? What do the previous verses mean leading up to the passage you are teaching? And what about the historical context and how to apply it today? These questions need answers.

Truth matters. Our teaching must be biblically sound to benefit those who listen to us.

God gave teachers to the Church for a reason. The Apostle Paul warned Timothy to pay close attention to his life and message. Paul warned Timothy about the danger of not persevering in the truth for his own sake and those he influenced. That truth applies today. Bad teaching will distort our understanding of God and hurt those he has given us the responsibility to teach.

A good watchman studies Scripture in context.

A spiritual person embraces both sound doctrine and the presence of the Holy Spirit in their lives.

Scriptures For Meditation:

“Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth.” – 2 Timothy 2:15 ESV

“God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth.” – John 4:24 ESV

“Pursue love, and earnestly desire the spiritual gifts, especially that you may prophesy.” – 1 Corinthians 14:1 ESV

Watch And Pray:

Father, we live in a world of deception. Deliver Your Church from anti-intellectualism and the fear of your supernatural power. Lord, you meant for our study of theology to turn into doxology (worship.) Your Word commands us to pursue supernatural gifts of the Spirit. Teach us reverence for Your Word and Your Spirit. Keep us from deception and help us worship You in Spirit and Truth. In Jesus’ name, amen.