What is meant by doctrine? Thayer defines doctrine as “the body of teachings or beliefs derived from scripture that guide faith and practice, encompassing core principles and tenets” (online dictionary, April 2, 2024). Notice the phrase “body”. This is significant because many do not entirely respond to the Gospel. The Bible states, “The entirety of Your word is truth, And every one of Your righteous judgments endures forever” (Psalm 119:160, NKJV). Not only does God provide His will for us, but He also bears with us enough to reveal it fully! Amen.
Some English versions substitute the term entirely with the word “sum”. The inference is simple: the Gospel, the Bible, and God’s doctrine are the same. Consider the recordings of the Apostle Paul; he notes that lawlessness is contrary to the teachings of Christ and the doctrine of Christ (1 Timothy 1:8-11). To be loyal and trustworthy to the will of God and be one to another, ALL Christians must be united in the doctrine of the Scripture (Philippians 1:27-30). Therefore, when one “shifts” in doctrine or moves away from what has been left for us to benefit from, it is a sin (Galatians 1:6-10). God did not allow us to discern right from wrong entirely in and of ourselves (Psalm 119:116-117, Proverbs 20:24, Jeremiah 10:23). In this arena, truly “Father (God) knows best!”
People often alter God’s will towards a “teaching” that does not align with earnest living. Doctrinal shifts frequently align with “people pleasing”. Jesus taught against this behavior by castigating the chief priests, scribes, and elders when He inquired, “By what authority are You doing these things? And who gave You this authority to do these things?” (Mark 11:28b). Like many of us today who speak of God, but revere mankind, they stated, “We do not know.” (Mark 11:33b).
As God’s chosen, their authority could not derive from any other source but the Lord to be accepted and holy! There is no difference today. People are often disingenuous when prompted for an answer from Heaven, but instead, they only offer up semantics worthy of Satan (Luke 11:11). Fear causes one to err in the Scriptures. We cannot and should not try to change the doctrine of Christ to a lesser god (Romans 10:3). God has called us to excellence, not to strive and try to change His will (Hebrews 13:6).
Think about these things,
Archie R. Green
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