“Sound Doctrine”

Tuesday, February 06, 2024

BIBLE READING: Titus 1-2

“But as for you, [Titus], teach what accords with sound doctrine.” (Titus 2.1)

There was trouble brewing in the early churches. At first glance, it seemed innocent enough – people wandering off into vain discussions about myths and genealogies (Titus 1.14). But Paul puts a finer point on the efforts of these vocal leaders: they are empty talkers, deceivers, and they must be silenced (Titus 1.11). I’m sure to those in their congregations, these men were kind, charismatic and charming. But Paul was not concerned with appearances. He saw right through their efforts to the effects: people were not only swerving from their faith (1 Timothy 1.7; Titus 1.11); they were wrecking it altogether (1 Timothy 1.19). To encourage these young preachers, Paul began his letters with specific instructions to teach sound doctrine (1 Timothy 1.3; Titus 2.1).

The idea of “sound” literally means “healthy” or “as it should be.” Paul uses it in contrast to those who “speculated” and “taught for shameful gain”, which defiled the mind and the conscience (1 Timothy 1.4; Titus 1.11, 15). This snapshot into the early church reveals that when people deviate from what is right and true, the church suffers. Opinions and personalities dominate where God’s glory should be, and we become something other than a body that honors God.

Sound doctrine is critical in aligning us with the will of God. Furthermore, it is clear that sound doctrine is the only tool capable of creating true harmony among God’s people. In his letters Paul identifies specific characteristics of sound doctrine to keep us from the deception of wrong thinking.

Sound doctrine...

1. Always points to Jesus. “If anyone teaches a different doctrine and does not agree with the sound words of our Lord Jesus Christ and the teaching that accords with godliness, he… understands nothing.” (1 Timothy 6.3-4). Jesus is the foundation of sound doctrine because he illuminates the purpose of God’s plan in our lives and in the church (Ephesians 3.9).
2. Develops stricter morality. “The grace of God has appeared… training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions and to live soberly and upright in the present…” (Titus 2.11-12). Behavior is an extension of theology, and there is a direct relationship between what we think and how we act.
3. Creates distinction. Paul emphasizes two distinct ways of thinking to these young men: Speculation versus stewardship. Personal agendas versus. God’s glory. The reality is not everyone is honest and sincere. (Philippians 1.15-17). When confronted with God’s standard it becomes evident who’s glory is being promoted.
4. Produces vitality and life. “Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers” (1 Timothy 4:16). This is an intangible element of sound doctrine, but it is undeniable. The gospel gives life.

In many ways, sound doctrine is a conservative and deliberate approach to God’s revealed will. But it is more than that. It is a way of thinking that relies on obvious truths that compel change and accountability. As our world becomes increasingly subjective, we need sound doctrine to have peace in our faith. And so, let us be sure we are investing ourselves in what is sure, evident, and sound.

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