“You, however, must teach what is appropriate to sound doctrine.”
Titus 2:1
Paul wrote to Titus instructing him to teach things that are in agreement with sound doctrine. Sound biblical doctrine refers to teachings and beliefs that are consistent with the Bible. It entails accurate interpretation and faithful application of biblical truths, such as the nature of God, salvation, Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit, sin, and moral principles. We desperately need sound doctrine in our time more than ever before.
THE BASIS OF OUR FAITH
Faith comes from hearing the word of God (Rom 10:17). Since the basis of our faith is God’s word, it is crucial to interpret it accurately. Sound doctrine is important because it shapes our beliefs and actions to align with God’s word rather than fleeting human opinions or cultural trends.
PROVIDES TRUTH AND GUIDANCE
All Scripture is inspired by God and it helps us know the truth, recognize wrong, correct our mistakes, and learn to do what’s right (2 Tim 3:16-17). It prepares and equips us for every good work. Sound doctrine helps us live according to God’s will.
SAFEGUARD AGAINST ERROR
False doctrine contaminates the Body of Christ and ends up leading members astray. Sound doctrine helps us to identify and reject false teachings, thus protecting ourselves from error. Sound doctrine is derived from God’s word, which is divinely inspired and therefore incapable of error. This sets it apart from teachings originating from human sources. Paul warns us not to be tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine or deceptive scheming of others, but to remain steadfast in our beliefs (Eph 4:14).
CREATES UNITY
Sound doctrine unites believers, aligning them with the same core beliefs and values, reducing divisions, and promoting harmony among each other. We are able to stand firm together and united in advancing the Kingdom of God. Believers must pursue one mind and one spirit, avoiding any form of division among each other, as a kingdom divided against itself cannot stand (Mark 3:25; Phil 2:2).
HOW TO KNOW SOUND DOCTRINE
We need to be prayerful and seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit helps us to interpret Scripture accurately, understand the word of God, and discern teachings. We should study the Bible slowly, repeatedly, and attentively. Consider the example of the Bereans in Acts 17:11, which illustrates the importance of diligent examination of the Scriptures to verify the truthfulness of teachings. The diligence and discernment shown in their commitment to studying God’s word serves as a model for practising sound doctrine.
Paul warns us that there will be a time when men will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around themselves a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear (2 Tim 4:3-4). Sound doctrine originates from God’s word not from man. May we do our best to correctly handle the word of truth and may it dwell in our hearts richly.
Further study: Deuteronomy 4:2; 1 Timothy 4:16
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