JasonS doctrine, grace, Scripture

The Mystery of The Gospel

The Mystery

“Now to him that is of power to stablish you according to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the world began, But now is made manifest, and by the scriptures of the prophets, according to the commandment of the everlasting God, made known to all nations for the obedience of faith: To God only wise, be glory through Jesus Christ for ever. Amen.” (Romans 16:25–27) 

    Why Write On A Mystery?
One might ask why a person would write about a mystery? This is not about a whodunnit, the FBI, or some other investigative story whether fiction or non-fiction. This is to consider what the Bible means when it speaks of “the mystery.” What did Jesus mean when He spoke of the mysteries of the kingdom? What is a mystery and what is the mystery of which Paul spoke; and why is there a mystery? As we study these things, our approach is from the understanding that the Bible is a coherent and united book of books, that God is one in being, mind, purpose, and deed, and that the study of the whole of the Scriptures will yield the understanding we need to answer these questions.

What Is A Mystery?

It is almost always helpful to begin a discussion by defining the terms one is using. We must ask, then, what a mystery is.

A study of the word shows the following concerning the general usage of the word: 

  1. “Denotes in general something hidden or not fully manifest. 2 Thess. 2:7 speaks of “the mystery of iniquity” which began to work in secret and was not then completely disclosed or manifested.”
  2. A mystery is knowledge that is specific to a religious group and available only to those who are initiated into that group. It is also generally mysteries, religious secrets, confided only to the initiated and not to ordinary mortals.
  3. “of God: the secret counsels which govern God in dealing with the righteous, which are hidden from ungodly and wicked men but plain to the godly.”
  4. All mysteries promise their devotees salvation

The Biblical definition of a mystery is found in our text: It was a truth kept secret since the world began; it was written in the Scriptures; it was made manifest in Christ (See Romans 1:1-4;3:21-22;2 Corinthians 1:20.); it is being made known in all nations that men might believe (See Romans 1:1-6;10:1-17.); and gives glory to God.

To take this further, the mystery has been hidden from the princes of the world and revealed to those who believe (1 Corinthians 2:1-16). Why was it hidden from the princes of the world? God’s Word says, “For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God.” (1 Corinthians 1:18) “For the Jews require a sign, and the Greeks seek after wisdom: But we preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumblingblock, and unto the Greeks foolishness; But unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God.” (1 Corinthians 1:22–24) “For ye see your calling, brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called: But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty; And base things of the world, and things which are despised, hath God chosen, yea, and things which are not, to bring to nought things that are: That no flesh should glory in his presence. But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption: That, according as it is written, He that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord.” (1 Corinthians 1:26–31) The simple reality is that the gospel is hidden from those who do not believe not because the facts are unavailable and unknown, but because they do not believe. “But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost: In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them. For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus’ sake. For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.” (2 Corinthians 4:3–6) 

This mystery is spoken of as having been hid from the beginning of the world and from all ages, yet is revealed to the saints of God and preached to all men. “Whereof I am made a minister, according to the dispensation of God which is given to me for you, to fulfil the word of God; Even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints: To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory: Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus: Whereunto I also labour, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily.” (Colossians 1:25–29) 

Why A Mystery?

Why is there a mystery at all? After all, one would think that God would have all men to know the truth. Yes, God does indeed want all men to know the truth: “Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.” (1 Timothy 2:4) All men will not come to the truth, however. While the gospel is preached, not all partake of it. Not all will believe the gospel. Even though they might know the facts of the gospel, it will remain a mystery to them because they have not experienced the saving grace of God and His indwelling Spirit. God does not entrust His Word and His presence to those who do not want it. This is why Jesus said to His disciples, “Unto you it is given to know the mysteries of the kingdom of God: but to others in parables; that seeing they might not see, and hearing they might not understand.” (Luke 8:10) 

God also has a purpose according to which He is working, and He has revealed Himself and will continue to reveal Himself according to that purpose (Ephesians 1:3-14). While we have a complete Bible today, we still do not have the fullest revelation of God. God’s Word tells us that revelation is yet to come: “Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.” (1 John 3:2) Again we read, “Behold, he cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see him, and they also which pierced him: and all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of him. Even so, Amen.” (Revelation 1:7) Thus it is that the prophets foretold the coming of Christ, His sufferings, and the glory that should follow, yet did not know when that would be (1 Peter 1:10-12). At just the right time, however, God revealed Himself in Jesus Christ (Galatians 4:1-5;John 1:14-18;1 Timothy 3:16).This is why Jesus rebuked the disciples for not understanding and believing the Scriptures regarding His crucifixion and resurrection: they had been foretold and they should have known. “Then he said unto them, O fools, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken: Ought not Christ to have suffered these things, and to enter into his glory?” (Luke 24:25–26) “Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures, And said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day: And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.” (Luke 24:45–47) Thus we see that there is mystery because God has a purpose in which He reveals Himself and His working throughout the ages of time, culminating in the visible return of Christ in all His glory and the glory of His Father and the gathering together of all God’s people unto Him to enjoy the never ending revelation of His grace in Christ (Ephesians 2:4-7;Revelation 21:3;22:3-4).

What Is The Mystery?

What is this mystery of which the Scriptures speak? This is the question that we must answer in order to calm the great confusion that seems to exist regarding the matter.

First of all, let us notice what the mystery is not. The mystery is not:

  • The gospel- “And the scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the heathen through faith, preached before the gospel unto Abraham, saying, In thee shall all nations be blessed.” (Galatians 3:8) 
  • The suffering, death, and resurrection of Christ as the savior of the world- “Of which salvation the prophets have enquired and searched diligently, who prophesied of the grace that should come unto you: Searching what, or what manner of time the Spirit of Christ which was in them did signify, when it testified beforehand the sufferings of Christ, and the glory that should follow. Unto whom it was revealed, that not unto themselves, but unto us they did minister the things, which are now reported unto you by them that have preached the gospel unto you with the Holy Ghost sent down from heaven; which things the angels desire to look into.” (1 Peter 1:10–12) “Then he said unto them, O fools, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken: Ought not Christ to have suffered these things, and to enter into his glory? And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself.” (Luke 24:25–27) “And he said unto them, These are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the psalms, concerning me. Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures, And said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day: And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.” (Luke 24:43–47) 
  • The salvation of the Gentiles- “And he said unto them, These are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the psalms, concerning me. Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures, And said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day: And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.” (Luke 24:43–47) “And he said, It is a light thing that thou shouldest be my servant to raise up the tribes of Jacob, and to restore the preserved of Israel: I will also give thee for a light to the Gentiles, that thou mayest be my salvation unto the end of the earth.” (Isaiah 49:6) “And the scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the heathen through faith, preached before the gospel unto Abraham, saying, In thee shall all nations be blessed.” (Galatians 3:8) 

We must ask, then, what is this mystery? This mystery is:

  • That God would for a period of time turn the focus and ministry of the Word and promises from the nation of Israel to the Gentiles- “For I would not, brethren, that ye should be ignorant of this mystery, lest ye should be wise in your own conceits; that blindness in part is happened to Israel, until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in.” (Romans 11:25) 
  • That God would change and glorify the living saints when Christ returns to raise the dead- “Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed,” (1 Corinthians 15:51) 
  • That all in Christ would be gathered together in one when God’s plan is completed- “Having made known unto us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure which he hath purposed in himself: That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; even in him:” (Ephesians 1:9–10) 
  • That Gentiles would be fellowheirs, fellow members of the body, and share in the grace of God with the Jewish believers- s“How that by revelation he made known unto me the mystery; (as I wrote afore in few words, Whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ) Which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit; That the Gentiles should be fellowheirs, and of the same body, and partakers of his promise in Christ by the gospel: Whereof I was made a minister, according to the gift of the grace of God given unto me by the effectual working of his power. Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ; And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ: To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God,” (Ephesians 3:3–10) “Whereof I am made a minister, according to the dispensation of God which is given to me for you, to fulfil the word of God; Even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints: To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory: Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus: Whereunto I also labour, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily.” (Colossians 1:25–29) 

It is this equality between Jew and Gentile in the body of Christ that was the mystery Paul preached. It was the fact that in Christ we are not Jew, Gentile, etc, but are all one. Paul said he was in bonds for this. It is in Acts chapter twenty and successive chapters that we see the Jewish people rising up against Paul, seeking to destroy him and him eventually being imprisoned. In his trials we find that the Jewish people charging him with taking a Gentile in the temple, though he did not. We also find that it was when Paul stated that God told him that He would send him to the Gentiles that the Jewish people in a frenzy cried saying, “Away with such a fellow from the earth: for it is not fit that he should live.” (Acts 22:22) Recognizing and hating the fact that the grace of God was extended to the Gentiles so that they would be included in all of the covenant blessings and promises made to Abraham and his seed and knowing that this made a spiritual equality between the Jews and Gentiles (See Galatians 3:26-29) was more than they could stand. It was this that stirred their hatred and this for which Paul was imprisoned. The gospel was not the mystery. The sufferings and resurrection of Christ was not the mystery. In many ways, even the church was not a mystery. The mystery was that God would receive the Gentiles and accept them as equal to the believing Israelites.

Why Is This Important?

Why is this a matter that deserves approximately three thousand words and hours of labor in an article? This is an issue of importance because there are those who wish to so divide the Bible that they teach that there are multiple gospels in the different dispensations of time. The reality is that the Biblical presentation of the dispensation of the fulness of times is not about dividing Scriptures or people, but about gathering all in one who are in Christ (Ephesians 1:9-11). Furthermore, there is only one gospel, and that is from beginning to end the gospel of the grace of God. This is why we must pay close attention to the fact that the Scripture’s testimony is:

  • Abel’s offering was God’s testimony of His giving us Jesus as our sacrifice (Hebrews 11:4)
  •  Noah was justified by faith (Hebrews 11:7)
  • God personally preached the gospel to Abraham (Genesis 12:1-3;Galatians 3:8)  
  • Jesus fulfilled the promises and prophecies of the Old Testament Scriptures (Romans 3:21-24;2 Corinthians 1:20;Galatians 3:24)
  • the way of salvation under the law is the same as it is today (Romans 4:1-25;10:1-13)
  • the gospel of the kingdom is the gospel of Jesus Christ (Romans 1:16;10:15 cf Isaiah 52:7;Mark 1:14-15)
  • the gospel that will be preached in the end times is the same gospel that has always been preached (Isaiah 59:20-21;Jeremiah 31:31-34;Zechariah 12:8-10;John 6:44-46;Ephesians 2:11-22;Galatians 4:21-31;Revelation 1:5-7;14:6).

These things show us that, from the beginning to end, the testimony of God is that He is unchanging and His purpose is one purpose: that is He plans to glorify Himself through His grace in Christ Jesus (Ephesians 1:3-14;2 Timothy 1:7-10;Revelation 10:5-7). I know of nothing more important that our upholding and defending the unity of Scripture, the immutability of God, and the free grace of God in all ages, and this is why it is important that we deal with this issue. I pray that we all will honor God’s one purpose, united Bible, and His one gospel: the faith which was once and for all delivered unto the saints (Jude 1:3).

JasonS doctrine

The Importance Of Doctrine

“Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.” (1 Timothy 4:16) 

The Importance Of Doctrine

Paul’s instructions to Timothy and Titus are filled with references to doctrine. In fact, we find the Word of God using it in the Pastoral Epistles seventeen of the fifty times the word “doctrine” is used in the New Testament. Considering the fact that these epistles were written to teach and train men in how to lead churches, we can conclude that doctrine is of very great importance in the life of the church.

What is doctrine? The first mention of the word is in the words of Jesus: “And it came to pass, when Jesus had ended these sayings, the people were astonished at his doctrine: For he taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes.” (Matthew 7:28–29) We can quickly see that Jesus’ doctrine was His teaching, because the words are use synonymously (This is also done in Mark 4:1-2.). As we study more throughout our Bibles, we will find that doctrine is the foundation of our faith and of the life that we should live as God’s children. Many will declare that doctrine is unnecessary, yet that is in itself a doctrine, being taught by those who choose to abandon the doctrines of the Scripture.

Let us notice how important it is that we get our doctrine and our practice correct: “Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled. Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven. For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 5:17–20) The infallible, inerrant, imperishable Word of God is the Christian’s sole authoritative guide. It is the fount of all doctrine/teaching, and is to be respected as such so that we endeavor to be faithful to it even in the very least thing. Notice this, because today many will often speak of some issues as being of little importance. Every bit of Scripture is God’s Word and of equal authority. While there are some doctrines that are of utmost importance because they are fundamental to our salvation (Consider Romans 16:17 in the context of the whole letter.), we are obligated to honor God’s authority by respecting even the smallest of detail, i.e. the jots and tittles, and both teaching and obeying them. There are no unimportant or trivial doctrines. In fact, the one whom God considers great is the one who both teaches and obeys even the least of the Biblical doctrines.

Let us notice further that it is the Scripture that is the source of our doctrine and not what men have to say: “Then came to Jesus scribes and Pharisees, which were of Jerusalem, saying, Why do thy disciples transgress the tradition of the elders? for they wash not their hands when they eat bread. But he answered and said unto them, Why do ye also transgress the commandment of God by your tradition? For God commanded, saying, Honour thy father and mother: and, He that curseth father or mother, let him die the death. But ye say, Whosoever shall say to his father or his mother, It is a gift, by whatsoever thou mightest be profited by me; And honour not his father or his mother, he shall be free. Thus have ye made the commandment of God of none effect by your tradition. Ye hypocrites, well did Esaias prophesy of you, saying, This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoureth me with their lips; but their heart is far from me. But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.” (Matthew 15:1–9) We continue and find that Paul’s teaching on the inspiration and authority of Scripture shows us that it is the Scripture that is the Word of God and our doctrinal authority. It is the doctrine found in Scripture that instructs, corrects, directs, and perfects us so that we become fitted for the place God purposes for us to fill (See 2 Timothy 3:16-4:5). It is this doctrine that the man of God is to preach to the church, opening the text, explaining the text, and applying the text. This alone is the health of the church. If the church is to be saved from shipwreck (1 Timothy 1:18-20), the man of God must be serious and fervent in doctrine.  “Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.” (1 Timothy 4:16) 

“And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.” (Matthew 28:18–20) We call this text “The Great Commission.” It is the mandate of the church to teach, or make disciples of all nations. This is the task of the church, to bring the doctrine of salvation to all people. After men become believers, they are to be baptized and taught, or indoctrinated in all things that Jesus commanded us. This being the command given to us by our Master, faithful churches, Christians, and pastors are the ones who, using the Bible, value doctrine, teach doctrine, and apply doctrine. 

Luke records that Jesus “came down to Capernaum, a city of Galilee, and taught them on the sabbath days. And they were astonished at his doctrine: for his word was with power. And in the synagogue there was a man, which had a spirit of an unclean devil, and cried out with a loud voice, Saying, Let us alone; what have we to do with thee, thou Jesus of Nazareth? art thou come to destroy us? I know thee who thou art; the Holy One of God. And Jesus rebuked him, saying, Hold thy peace, and come out of him. And when the devil had thrown him in the midst, he came out of him, and hurt him not. And they were all amazed, and spake among themselves, saying, What a word is this! for with authority and power he commandeth the unclean spirits, and they come out. And the fame of him went out into every place of the country round about.” (Luke 4:29–37) Notice that Jesus’ teaching was with power or authority. There are many people today who are focused on issues such as healing, deliverance, prophecy, tongues, and emotionally ecstatic experiences, calling these things the power of God. We must remember that Jesus rebuked people who looked for signs such as this (See Matthew 12:38-42;16:1-4), and realize that the emphasis of Christ is the revelation of God in Scripture and the authority of God in Scripture. What occurred in Capernaum was Jesus teaching with authority. His Word and doctrine were what was important. While many seek signs and emotions as evidence of power, God’s Word here declares that it is the very doctrine of Christ that has the power.

It is very important to note as well that the very ministry of the Holy Spirit is to indoctrinate us: “But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.” (John 14:26) It cannot be emphasized too much in our day of emotionalism and sign seeking, that the Holy Ghost’s work is to enlighten us to understand the Word and doctrine of Christ.

When, on the day of Pentecost, thousands believed, were saved, baptized, and added to the church, they then “continued stedfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.” (Acts 2:42) It is imperative to notice that, not only is doctrine essential to the health of the church by keeping us from shipwreck as we have already seen, but the early Christians were immediately immersed in doctrine by the apostles. One does not need to wait until he has reached a certain degree of spiritual maturity before he studies doctrine. In fact, one cannot attain spiritual maturity without right doctrine (See Ephesians 4:11-16.). Doctrine is the foundation of our faith and that which nurtures our growth in the faith.

We cannot preach the gospel to the lost without doctrine. The very work of evangelizing is to present the doctrine that Christ died for our sins and arose for our justification. The high priests asked the apostles, “Saying, Did not we straitly command you that ye should not teach in this name? and, behold, ye have filled Jerusalem with your doctrine, and intend to bring this man’s blood upon us.” (Acts 5:28) That’s right! They preached the gospel and that is a doctrinal stance. Sadly, in our day, it is often those who fail to preach the gospel with clarity who reject doctrine as being important. Even worldly idolatrous people understood that gospel preaching was doctrine (See Acts 17:18-21.), so I am astounded when professing Christians declare that doctrine is unnecessary and divisive. When the Romans believed that gospel and were saved, Paul said, “But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you.” (Romans 6:17) True gospel preaching requires the presence of doctrine. Remember, “faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” (Romans 10:17) 

To demonstrate the importance of doctrine, God placed gifted people in the church for the purpose of teaching (Romans 12:6-7). We are very plainly told that the pastors, who are teachers, have the task of indoctrinating the saints that they would grow in Christ. “And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ: That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ: From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love.” (Ephesians 4:11–16) The Word of God is also explicit about the value of doctrine because we are told that it is much more profitable to the saints than words that are either difficult or impossible to understand (1 Corinthians 14:6,9). Far from encouraging or embracing anything similar to the often incomprehensible chaos of our modern day charismatic movement, Paul gave us God’s Word commanding us to focus on the teaching and hearing of God’s Word in an orderly manner (1 Corinthians 14:26-40).

Doctrine is also essential to the godly life of purity to which we are called. Paul told Timothy, “As I besought thee to abide still at Ephesus, when I went into Macedonia, that thou mightest charge some that they teach no other doctrine, Neither give heed to fables and endless genealogies, which minister questions, rather than godly edifying which is in faith: so do…But we know that the law is good, if a man use it lawfully; Knowing this, that the law is not made for a righteous man, but for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and for sinners, for unholy and profane, for murderers of fathers and murderers of mothers, for manslayers, For whoremongers, for them that defile themselves with mankind, for menstealers, for liars, for perjured persons, and if there be any other thing that is contrary to sound doctrine;” (1 Timothy 1:3-4,8–10) We find here that doctrine is connected to the gospel, and the gospel is connected to moral purity and holiness. Doctrine is referred to as being sound or wholesome or hygienic because sound doctrine leads to sound beliefs and clean living to the glory of God. Doctrine and godliness are two sides of the same coin and cannot be separated. In fact, it is only after God uses Paul to command Timothy concerning doctrine that He guides Paul to warn Timothy about abandoning the faith (doctrine) and making shipwreck. We can be assured that those who abandon sound doctrine will indeed make shipwreck of their faith and often of their morals.

From here we read the Scriptures warning us of false doctrines (1 Timothy 4:1-2), commanding the pastor to be steadfast in doctrine (1 Timothy 4:13,16), encouraging the respect and faithful support of those who labor in word and doctrine (1 Timothy 5:17), calling for people to live godly according to good doctrine (1 Timothy 6:1-6), and giving direction to train men to be teachers of sound doctrine (2 Timothy 2:1-2). It is obvious that sound doctrine is important.

We have seen before that the task of a pastor is to teach sound doctrine. Not only so, but his life is to reflect sound doctrine in godly living so that the man of God might use sound doctrine to call the ungodly to repentance. “For a bishop must be blameless, as the steward of God; not selfwilled, not soon angry, not given to wine, no striker, not given to filthy lucre; But a lover of hospitality, a lover of good men, sober, just, holy, temperate; Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers. For there are many unruly and vain talkers and deceivers, specially they of the circumcision: Whose mouths must be stopped, who subvert whole houses, teaching things which they ought not, for filthy lucre’s sake.” (Titus 1:7–11) This is important to note, since many today have practically abandoned morality, holding no standards for the qualifications of a minister. God’s Word, however, commands purity of life so that one can effectively teach pure doctrine. It is not at all radical or unreasonable that we take a stand on ministerial qualifications as given to us in First Timothy chapter three and Titus chapter one. It is a righteous thing that we reject those who are disqualified and refuse to fellowship with them. It is not us who have contradicted and rejected the Word of God, but it is those who refuse to truly embrace sound doctrine by living godly in accord therewith.

Remember, we are to withdraw from those who do not hold to sound doctrine. We read, “Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them. For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple.” (Romans 16:17–18) Notice that those who embrace false doctrines are to be marked and avoided because are not truly servants of God and they will deceive others unless we stand against their false doctrines and warn people of them. God used Paul to tell us of these, saying, “Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample. (For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ: Whose end is destruction, whose God is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame, who mind earthly things.)” (Philippians 3:17–19) We cannot be ambivalent toward these purveyors of falsehoods: they do not serve Jesus. We are not called to be sweet and accommodating, nor are we to act as if it is harsh, cruel, and hypocritical to call out false doctrine and false teachers. There is no other way to warn and protect the flock of God than this. This is also the way of obedience to God.

For many years there have been folks involved in ecumenical meetings as if the doctrinal differences between pedo-baptists and Baptists are of no concern. Many act as if theological liberals who deny Creation, embrace evolution, deny the virgin birth of Jesus, deny blood atonement, and deny the literal bodily resurrection of Christ are truly Christian brothers. Let us hear the Word of God: “Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son. If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed:” (2 John 9–10) “But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction. And many shall follow their pernicious ways; by reason of whom the way of truth shall be evil spoken of. And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not.” (2 Peter 2:1–3) Considering that such do not know the Lord Jesus, we cannot rightly have fellowship with them, but are commanded to come out from among them (2 Corinthians 6:14-18) and be separate. These people are not in fellowship with God’s people, but are under the judgment of God, as the Scripture has said. Let us then obey God by taking a clear stand against false doctrine.

As we come to the close of this article, let us return to the text with which we began: “Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.” (1 Timothy 4:16) Having warned of abandoning faith (doctrine) and a good conscience, which leads to shipwreck, we are now told how to avoid this. We can all be saved from destroying our spirituality and perhaps our own lives by continuing in good doctrine. It can never be stressed too much how great of a need we have to learn, believe, practice, and continue in sound doctrine. May God help us all to be faithful in this.

JasonS pastoral work

Addressing Symptoms Rather Than The Disease

“For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another.  For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this; Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. But if ye bite and devour one another, take heed ye be not consumed one of another.  This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh. For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would.  But if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law. Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies,  envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,  meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. And they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another” https://ref.ly/Ga5.13-26;av1873

    One of our greatest problems in the ministry is that of trying to fix problems by addressing the symptoms. Do you see that Paul does not tell them to stop biting and devouring one another; but rather told them to love one another and walk in the Spirit? Just as a sinus infection cannot be cured simply by addressing the symptoms of a runny nose, but by treating the actual infection, neither can we heal divisions among professing Christians by treating symptoms rather than the disease.

    Too many times we try to address the problem of division by telling folks to stop fussing and be nice. That is insufficient, and it is not a Christian approach. Jesus didn’t come to make us nice: He came to save us from our sins. We overcome the sin of division through repentance and learning to love as Jesus loves us.

    Another thing we tend to do is tell people that they need to do better than they are; but that is also insufficient. None of us have the strength to overcome the evil selfishness and divisiveness  that is within our hearts. This is why we are commanded to walk in the Spirit. If we try to fix the problem by telling folks to stop, or to act better than they are, we are addressing the flesh. Verses nineteen through twenty-one tell us how that will end up: things will ultimately get worse, even if there is the superficial appearance of improvement. The things we seek after are the fruit of the Spirit, and not that of fleshly effort. 

    It is amazing how deep the roots of pride and self are. We wholeheartedly confess that we are saved by grace, yet try to lead Christ’s flock into holiness by works. We tell them that things will improve if they will only act more nicely and be sweeter; but this is destined to fail, because we need God’s free and empowering grace to overcome the sin in our hearts. In doing this we become legalists, who are relying solely on human works rather than yielding to the transforming grace of God and the sanctifying power of His Holy Spirit.

    Brothers, if we are to truly lead people beyond their sins, we must address more than their symptoms. Their problem is that of sinful hearts needing to be changed by the Holy Spirit. This change can only come about by conviction, repentance, and faith, as these are God’s prescription for changing our hearts and lives (See 2 Corinthians 7:7-12;James 3:14-4:10). To address these problems in any other way is less than Christan preaching. From that point it is the duty of each person to yield to the Spirit. Sadly some will refuse and rebel, demonstrating a lack of grace in their hearts (See Galatians 5:19-21); but others, who are truly born again, will hear, believe, obey, and be changed and blessed by the power of God (Galatians 5:22-24).

    Brothers, let us address the disease of division with the Gospel rather than simply treating the symptoms with a call to fleshly works of do-goodism. The Gospel is not only good news for those who are lost, because it is also the power of God to continue His transforming work in us as we are made holy here; and it gives us the hope of future glory when our bodies are redeemed in the resurrection (See Ephesians 1:1-14;2:8-10).

JasonS doctrine, pastoral work

The Law Is Good, But The Gospel Is Glorious

The Law Is Good, But The Gospel Is Glorious

“But we know that the law is good, if a man use it lawfully; knowing this, that the law is not made for a righteous man, but for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and for sinners, for unholy and profane, for murderers of fathers and murderers of mothers, for manslayers, for whoremongers, for them that defile themselves with mankind, for menstealers, for liars, for perjured persons, and if there be any other thing that is contrary to sound doctrine; according to the glorious gospel of the blessed God, which was committed to my trust.” (1 Timothy 1:8–11) 

            Brothers, the law is good. It is just and holy. The law shows us our sins and opens our eyes to our condemnation before God (Romans 3:19-21;Galatians 3:22). The law is from God. It is definitely good and has a good use.

            The greatest use of the law is to point us to Jesus. The law is like a school teacher in that it is designed to educate us regarding our need of a Savior, and then to show us that Savior (Galatians 3:24).

            This being so, the law is good; but the gospel is glorious. The law is a means to an end; but the gospel of Christ is the end to which the law points. That is why Jesus tells us that the Scriptures testify of Him (John 5:39).

            This being so, let us teach and preach the law; but let us not do so in order that men might be holy, but in order that men might see their need of Jesus and trust Him. The ten commandments are indeed good, but only when they remind us of our need for Jesus to save us from our sins and make us holy. The law is indeed good, but the gospel is glorious.