In what ways can we ensure we "endure sound doctrine" in our lives? The Warning at Hand “For the time will come when men will not tolerate sound doctrine, but with itching ears they will gather around themselves teachers to suit their own desires.” (2 Timothy 4:3) Guarding Our Doctrine: Daily Habits That Matter • Read the Bible systematically—not only favorite passages, but entire books, so no part of truth goes unheard (Acts 20:27). • Memorize key verses; hidden Scripture becomes instant counsel when error knocks (Psalm 119:11). • Pray before and after reading, asking the Spirit who inspired the Word to illuminate and apply it (John 16:13). • Keep a journal of insights, making note of how each text reveals God’s character and commands. Testing Every Teaching • Compare every sermon, podcast, or book with the written Word (Acts 17:11). • Ask: Does this teaching exalt Christ and align with “the faith once for all delivered to the saints” (Jude 3)? • Reject anything that contradicts clear Scripture, even if the messenger is impressive (Galatians 1:8). Choosing Influences Wisely • Seek out expository preaching that explains the text verse by verse (Nehemiah 8:8). • Favor hymnody and worship music rich in biblical truth (Colossians 3:16). • Limit entertainment or social media voices that belittle holiness or blur moral lines (1 Corinthians 15:33). Staying Planted in a Sound Church • Commit to a fellowship where elders meet the qualifications of 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1. • Participate in small groups or Bible classes for mutual sharpening (Proverbs 27:17). • Submit to loving church discipline that protects from doctrinal drift (Matthew 18:15-17). Cultivating Doctrinal Accountability • Invite mature believers to review what you’re reading or hearing. • Discuss doctrinal issues with humility, open Bible in hand (Ephesians 4:15). • Share resources—solid commentaries, catechisms, and confessions—to reinforce orthodoxy. Fighting the Urge for “Itching Ears” • Discipline desires by fasting from novelty when the old, old story feels “too familiar.” • Remember that growth often comes through repeated exposure, not constant innovation (2 Peter 1:12-13). • Fix the heart on pleasing God, not on seeking messages that merely affirm personal preference (2 Corinthians 5:9). Living the Truth We Learn • Obedience cements doctrine; knowledge without action breeds self-deception (James 1:22). • Serve others in tangible ways, letting doctrine fuel love (Galatians 5:6). • Confess sin promptly; purity of life and purity of doctrine rise together (1 Timothy 1:5). Holding Fast Till the End • Keep looking to “the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ” as motivation to persevere (2 Timothy 4:8). • Encourage one another daily so none grow hard-hearted (Hebrews 3:13). • Trust God’s promise: “He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion” (Philippians 1:6). |
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