Sound Doctrine

When people today use the word doctrine, they usually refers to specific concepts about truth and/or about God. Most Christians agree that doctrine based on Biblical teaching is important. We should examine our beliefs carefully—study them in light of God’s Word.

But a passage in Paul’s letter to Titus challenges our ideas about doctrine. Paul uses the word in a different context. He begins, You must teach . . . sound doctrine. (Titus 2:1 NIV) So far, so good. But the verses that follow indicate that his doctrine relates to lifestyle rather than concepts. For example, [T]each the older men to be temperate, worthy of respect, self-controlled, and sound in faith, in love and in endurance. (v. 2)

Paul continues with similar standards that are directed toward older women, then younger men and women, and then others. He concludes the segment of his letter with, For the grace of God . . . teaches us to say “no” to ungodliness and worldly passions. . . . (v. 11a,12a)

This doesn’t mean we should abandon doctrine as a belief system. It does mean we should expand the meaning to include applications. How do our beliefs affect our daily life? That is the true measure of doctrine.

Originally published May 6, 1983.