Sound teaching includes a clear commitment to doctrines often neglected yet clearly biblical. If we are to learn the sound doctrine of the Bible, we must come to terms with doctrines that may be difficult, or even potentially divisive, but that are foundational for understanding God's work among us. For example, the biblical doctrine of election is often avoided as too complex, or too confusing. Be that as it may, it is undeniable that this doctrine is biblical, and that it is important. While it may have implications we do not fully understand, it is no small matter that our salvation ultimately issues from God rather than from ourselves. Other important questions which the Bible answers have also been neglected:
- Are people basically bad or good? Do they merely need encouragement and enhanced self-esteem, or do they need forgiveness and new life?
- What did Jesus Christ do by dying on the cross? Did He make possible an option, or was He our substitute?
- What happens when someone becomes a Christian?
- If we are Christians, can we be sure that God will continue to care for us? If so, is His continuing care based on our faithfulness, or on His?
(emphasis mine)
1 comment:
Matt, Thanks again for the quotes. Pastor Rich required all the deacons and pastors to read the 9 marks last year. I really appreciated it (though I was neither a pastor or deacon :)).
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