False doctrine

Memory Verse: John 7:17 “If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself.”

Bible Passage: 1 Timothy 4:1-5

Introduction: Doctrine is the body of rules, teachings and beliefs that make up the creed of an organisation. In short, it is the belief system that all members hold dear and follow. For the Body of Christ, the Holy Bible is the doctrinal bedrock. It is inerrant and nothing can be added or removed. All efforts to alter, modernise or be selective are misconceived and mischievous. It remains the exclusive precept for Christian living. It is different from and superior to tradition and culture.

Types Of Doctrine

The Bible tells us of the doctrine of the Pharisees and the Sadducees and of men, strange doctrine of devils. Christians embrace the entire Bible. It has remained relevant and effective for Christian righteous living and life. Profitable and True are recurrent features of the Bible through the ages. Matt.16: 12; Matt.15: 9; Col.2: 22; Heb.13: 9; 1 Tim.4: 1; Heb.6: 1; Acts 2:42; Jn.7: 17.

False Doctrine

There are many false doctrines in the world today, but quite a number of civilisations and religions derived a substantial part of their doctrine from the Bible usually with some corruption from the wisdom of man. Some doctrines attack the divinity and humanity of Christ. Some even shed innocent blood in the enforcement or defence of their doctrine. Others attack God’s salvation plan through Jesus Christ and propose alternatives. They distort God’s commands and promote self-righteousness. Adherents are very difficult to correct and are not teachable. Acts.2: 36; 1 Jn.4: 1-3; Matt.17: 45; 1 Tim.1: 14; Tit.3: 9; 1 Cor. 3:11; Eph.2: 8; Gal.2: 4-7; Mk.16: 15-16; Jn.14: 16; Dan.7: 25; 1 Tim.3: 2; 2 Tim.3: 9.

Sound Doctrine

When a believer is in doubt, he must first of all, pray for illumination and understanding. All scripture is given by inspiration of God… profitable for doctrine … correction…and instruction in righteousness to make every man of God perfect and properly equipped for right living. 2 Tim 3:16-17 Matt.16: 12; Rom.6: 17; Tit.1: 9-11; Eph.4: 14; 1 Tim.5: 17;

Conclusion

Only true believers, hearers, and obedient teachers should be permitted to teach doctrine in church, as there is grave danger in wrong teaching. A discrepancy between the teaching and life of a preacher should raise a red flag. Apostle Paul’s admonition to his spiritual son in 1 Tim 4:16 is one we should heed even today. You will, therefore, be careful about your lifestyle and teachings and thereby save both yourself and your hearers in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen!