I. Introduction: The Importance of Doctrine in Christianity
II. The Danger of Dismissing Doctrine
- Romans 16:17-18 – Warning against those who cause divisions contrary to doctrine
- 2 John 1:9-11 – Importance of abiding in the doctrine of Christ
III. Understanding the “Doctrine of Christ”
A. Common misconception: Doctrine about Jesus vs. Doctrine taught by Jesus
B. Examples from the Gospels:
- Matthew 7:28-29 – People astonished at Jesus’ doctrine
- Matthew 22:33 – Multitudes astonished at His doctrine
- Mark 4:2 – Jesus taught them many things by parables in His doctrine
- Mark 11:18 – People astonished at His doctrine
- Mark 12:38 – Jesus warned about scribes in His doctrine
- Luke 4:32 – People astonished at His doctrine
- John 18:19 – High priest questioned Jesus about His doctrine
IV. The Problem with “Doctrine Divides, Jesus Unites”
- Ephesians 4:3-6 – One body, one Spirit, one hope, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God
V. Identifying Those Who Cause Division
A. Three characteristics (Romans 16:17-18):
- Cause divisions and offenses contrary to doctrine
- Serve their own belly (based on feelings rather than scripture)
- Use smooth words and flattering speech
B. The vulnerability of the “simple” (Romans 16:18)
VI. The Role of Church Leadership
- Hebrews 13:17 – Obey those who rule over you
VII. Matters of Judgment vs. Matters of Doctrine
A. Examples of matters of judgment:
- Church building features (kitchen, gymnasium)
- Meeting arrangements (house groups)
- Elder qualifications (number of children)
B. Importance of discerning between judgment and doctrine
VIII. False Doctrines in Modern Christianity
- Examples: Inherited sin, denial of hell, acceptance of sinful lifestyles, women in church leadership
IX. The Possibility and Responsibility of Knowing Truth
- 2 Peter 3:16 – Acknowledgment of difficult passages
- Emphasis on studying and understanding true doctrine
X. Conclusion: The Call to Abide in and Defend True Doctrine
- Romans 16:17 – Note those who cause divisions and avoid them
- 2 John 1:10-11 – Do not receive or greet those who bring false doctrine