In a world filled with competing voices and conflicting messages, what we believe shapes how we live. The apostle Paul understood this truth when he wrote to Titus, a young pastor tasked with strengthening the church in Crete. In Titus 2:1, Paul commands, “But as for you, teach what accords with sound doctrine.” This simple yet powerful instruction underscores the importance of biblical teaching in the life of every believer and the church as a whole.
The Power of Teaching
Teaching is never neutral. It transforms minds, directs hearts, and molds lives. False teaching, no matter how appealing, leads people away from the truth and into spiritual ruin. Sound doctrine, by contrast, builds up the church, strengthens faith, and glorifies God. This is why Paul urges Titus to teach only that which aligns with the truth of God’s Word.
God’s Revelation: The Foundation of Sound Doctrine
The authority of sound doctrine rests on God’s revelation. Scripture teaches that God has revealed Himself in two primary ways:
- General Revelation – Creation itself declares the glory of God (Psalm 19:1-6; Romans 1:19-20). While this revelation is enough to show us God’s power and divine nature, it is not sufficient to lead us to salvation.
- Special Revelation – God has specifically revealed Himself through His Word, the Scriptures (Psalm 19:7-14). The Bible alone provides the knowledge we need for salvation and godly living.
The doctrine of Scripture is central to Christian teaching. It is inspired by God (2 Timothy 3:16), without error (John 17:17), necessary for knowing God and His will, clear enough for all to understand, authoritative over our lives, and sufficient for all matters of faith and practice (2 Peter 1:3).
Proper Interpretation and Application
If we are to teach sound doctrine, we must first rightly interpret Scripture. Biblical interpretation, also known as hermeneutics, follows three basic steps:
- Observation – What does the text say? This includes examining the context, historical background, and literary style.
- Interpretation – What does the text mean? Scripture must be understood in light of its original intent and within the whole counsel of God’s Word.
- Application – How does the text apply to our lives? While there is only one correct interpretation of a passage, there may be multiple applications.
For example, Philippians 4:13 (“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me”) is often misapplied. In context, Paul is speaking about enduring trials with contentment. While it does not promise worldly success, it does assure us that Christ sustains His people through every circumstance.
Teaching Sound Doctrine in the Church
Teaching sound doctrine is not just for pastors. Every believer is called to grow in biblical knowledge and share it with others. This happens through:
- Expositional Preaching – Teaching through Scripture verse by verse to unfold the full counsel of God (Acts 20:26-27).
- Biblical Counseling and Discipleship – Applying Scripture in personal teaching and mentoring relationships.
- Personal Study and Devotion – Regular, systematic study of Scripture to deepen understanding and obedience.
The Call to Action
God’s people must be committed to learning and teaching His Word. We are constantly bombarded with messages from the world, and if we do not anchor ourselves in Scripture, we will be led astray. Here are some practical steps to deepen your understanding of sound doctrine:
- Commit to regular Bible study. Read Scripture systematically, not just in scattered verses.
- Use trustworthy resources. Read good theological books, confessions of faith, and systematic theologies.
- Engage with your local church. Learn from faithful preaching and teaching, and participate in discussions.
- Teach others. Whether in your family, small group, or one-on-one discipleship, share what you have learned.
As Paul exhorted Titus, we too must hold fast to the truth and teach only what aligns with God’s Word. In doing so, we protect the church from falsehood, strengthen our faith, and bring glory to our Lord. Let us, therefore, be diligent in learning and proclaiming sound doctrine for the sake of our souls and the advancement of God’s kingdom.
-Mark W. Williams
@markwwill
