THE NECESSITY OF SOUND DOCTRINE (Hebrews 4:12-13)

 “For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of souls and spirit, and of the joints and marrow , and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do.” Hebrews 4: 12-13

  1. Preamble

 1.0      Human Being and Doctrine.

The most important thing about us is what we believe about God or about gods. This is not an overstatement. Beliefs are at the root of everything we do. Many at times those beliefs may be unexamined, illogical, and blindly tied to our desires, but they are constantly fueling and shaping what we do or say. This is why the highest priority needs to  be given to what we believe and why. Nothing can shape human character more than minds and hearts, which determine ability to think right, about ourselves, our God, our lives, and our relationships of which the bedrock is the words scripted to form the guidelines -doctrine from ages to generations.

Doctrine takes its root from the core belief of every human being that there is existing a supernatural being that must be honored, worshipped, and reverenced. The worship must be systemized according to revelations and spiritual influences of such higher spirit being to human being as transferred from generation to generations in scripted layout. The Doctrine

1.1   Doctrine-  World View

From the perception of world view, doctrine is a codified set of beliefs, principles, or instructions held and taught by a specific group, religious, political, philosophical group, government or school of thought. It serves as a standardized set of guidelines or dogma, authoritative framework for understanding truths and guiding behavior such as in theology, law or military strategy.

.         1.3      Field identification under the world view

  • Religious: A set of beliefs or “dogmas” that define, explain, scrolled down for generations about a particular faith. For example, the Christian doctrine summarizes the nature of God based on scripture -as written-,accepted and believed as the foundation of our faith which determines the way, the walk, the work, the ultimate end. Every aspect of Christ’s teachings, pronouncements, instructions, about the kingdom of God, and  further explained by the Apostles becomes the Christians doctrine.

 Apart from Christianity, there are over 4000 distinct religions and even some estimates , up to 10,000, although the vast majority of the world’s population (roughly 85%) practices one of the five major faiths. These primary religions are Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism and Judaism/Sikhism. The vast majority of the 4,000+ total faiths are local, indigenous, or new religious movements with smaller followings. Roughly 1.2 billion people identify as nonreligious, atheists or agnostics. One begins to wonder why so many? Total count depends on how “religion” is defined. Many definitions struggle to distinguish between religions, denominations, and cultural practices. For example, ‘folk religion’  often combines local traditions with major faiths, creating regional variations.  

  • Political & Governmental: A statement of fundamental policy to shape daily life by defining what is believed and how to act on it, being referred to as Constitution together with its endless amendments and sometimes called Declaration.
  • Institutional : A rule or principle established to ensure consistent teaching across denominations or organization.
  • Military: A standard set of procedures and maneuvers used as a default approach for complex operations or warfare.
  • Understanding Biblical doctrine .                                             Matt. 7:28, 1 Timothy 4:13, 2 Timothy 3:14-17; 4: 3,  2 Peter 1:20-21, Roman 15:4; 16:17

            2.1   Core Biblical Definitions

In the Bible, the word doctrine simply means “teaching” or “instruction”. It refers to both the act of teaching and the actual content being taught and the teacher must be led by Holy Spirit. David used  the whole of Psalm 119 to ask God to teach him His Precepts, Commandments, Laws and Statures; while our Lord Jesus Christ in Matthew 4:23 “…teaching in their synagogues…” “…and he opened his mouth, and taught them…” Matthew 5:2 the whole chapter and the following two chapters are sound divine teaching about how and why we need to understand the  doctrine of the kingdom of God and be partakers in the inheritance of the saints in the light,

2.2    Doctrine Usage – Examples in the Bible:

  • Old Testament: Primarily from the Hebrew word leqach, meaning “what is received” or “the matter taught” (e.g., Deuteronomy 32:2, Proverbs 4:2).
  • New Testament: Primarily from the Greek words didaskalia (the act or substance of teaching) and didachē (the manner or content of teaching)
  • 2 Timothy 3:16 : “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness.”
  • 1  Timothy  1:3 Paul charged some that they teach no other doctrine
  • Matthew 7:28-29: Crowds were astonished at Jesus’ doctrine [teaching] because he taught with authority.
  • Acts 2:42: The early church continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine.
  • Titus 1:9: Holding fast to sound doctrine to exhort and convict gainsayers.
  • 1 Timothy 4:13: Paul instructs Timothy to focus on reading, exhortation, and doctrine.

2.3  The Key  Aspects of Doctrine in Scripture                                (Sound Doctrine, False Doctrine- Doctrines, and Apostolic Doctrine)

The Bible categorizes doctrine based on its source and its impact on the believer:

  • Sound Doctrine: Often called “healthy” doctrine, this is teaching that is true, accurate, and originates from God. It is the foundation for a godly life and spiritual growth, led by the Holy Spirit.  2 Tim.3:10,16,4:2,3; Titus 1:9, 2:7,10
  • False Doctrine: Teachings that are man-made, demonic, or contrary to the truth of Scripture. The New Testament frequently warns believers to guard against “every wind of doctrine” that might lead them astray (Ephesians 4:14, 2 Peter2:1-end). The adulterated Word of God with words of the world by human progenitors of some  religion and denominations. False doctrine, (doctrines) or human-made traditions, are warned against,    particularly those that disregard God’s word for human preference (Matt 7:15; Matthew 15:9, 2 Peter 2:1-end ; 2 Tim 4:3). 
  • Spiritual alert on Doctrines:  “…teaching for doctrines the commandment of men.” Matt.15:9 & Mk.7:7. “…the commandments and doctrines of men?” Col.2:22. “…seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils.” 1 Tim.4:1 and “…about with divers and strange doctrines…” Heb.13:9,
  • Apostolic Doctrine: The core set of truths passed down by Jesus’ apostles, centered on His life, death, and resurrection (“…continue steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship…” Acts 2:42. The Gospel was preached in the Acts of Apostles and Epistle taught the Gospel to the Church.
  1. Summary of Great Doctrines of The Bible

We ought to draw a clear distinction between nominal Christianity and genuine Christianity and between fanaticism and true worship (Jn. 4:70-24). In overcoming our Christian life, the entire scriptures shall be the only rule for standard of conduct, form of discipline and government in the Fellowships and pattern of Christian work.

1.. The HOLY BIBLE, consisting of 39 books of the Old Testament and 27 books of the New Testament is the plenary and verbally inspired Word of God. We take the Bible as the final authority in all matters concerning Christian conduct and work.  Ps. 16:7-11; 2 Pet 1:19-21, 2Tim. 3:16; Prov. 30: 5,6; Rev. 22:13-19.

2.. The GODHEAD  consists of three separate and distinct persons, possessing separate distinct and recognizable personalities and qualities, perfectly united in one. The Father; Almighty, Jehovah (Gen. 1:1; Ex.15:11; Ps. 86:15; 90:2; Prov. 3:19). The Son; Jesus Christ (lsa.7:14; 53:1 12; Mt1:l8-25; Acts.l:9-H; Rom. 1:3-4; 1 Cor.33:3-4).The Holy Spirit: Comforter (Jn.14:26; Rom.8:11-16; 26, 27; 1 Cor. 2:9-12; 1Cor. 12:1-11) are different persons in the Godhead, not merely three names for one person. They co-exist and are co-equal, co-eternal and co-substantial (Matt.3:16-17; Jn.1:1-3, 14; Jn.14: 23-26; 2 Cor. 13:14; Matt. 28:19,20).

The VIRGIN BIRTH OF JESUS, the only begotten Son of God. The incarnation, deity, sinlessness, crucifixion, death, burial and bodily resurrection of Jesus Christ (Isa 7:14; Matt. 1:18 25; Rom. 1:4-1 Cor.15:3,4; Jn. 1:1-4; 1 Pet. 2; 22-24.

  1. The TOTAL DEPRAVITY, sinfulness and guilt of all men since the fall, rendering them subject to God’s wrath and condemnation. (Ps. 51:5; Job 14:4; Rom. 5:12-.17; Matt. 7:21-23; Eph. 2:1-3).
  2. REPENTANCE is a complete turning away from all sins and its deceitful pleasures and it is required from every sinner before he can truly and effectually belong to Jesus with saving faith (Prov. 23:13; Isa 55: 7; Ezek.18; Lk. 21:46,47)
  3. 6. JUSTIFICATION is the act of God’s grace whereby one receives forgiveness and remission of sins and is counted righteous before God, through faith in the atoning blood of Jesus. Standing before God as he had never sinned. That at the time of justification, the justified is also
  4. 7. REGENERATION is meant the act of God’s grace whereby the spiritual change wrought in the heart of man by his crucifixion with Christ makes him a new creature and enables him to live righteously, soberly and Godly in this present evil world. Ps. 32:1,4 Is. 1:18; Mic. 7:19; .In. 3:3-8; Acts 13: 33-39; Rom. 3:24-30, 4:6-16; 5:1-2; 2 Cor. 5:17-21, Gal. 2:16; Eph. 2: 3,9; Tit 3:5; I Pet 1:33, Tit 2:11,12, Eph. 2:1,5. That such a person who after repentance, faith in the vicarious and atoning blood of Jesus, justification and regeneration is said to be born again, converted, or saved. This experience is called SALVATION from sin and its consequences. Jn. 1:14; 3:3,7,15,16; I Jn. 3:3-10; Is. 53:4, 5.
  5.  SALVATION:Adherence to the true gospel—the “doctrine of Christ”—is presented as essential for salvation. The act of being saved, rescued, or delivered from danger, sin, harm or destruction. In theological terms, it refers to the spiritual deliverance from the consequences of sin. It generally signifies safety, liberation, and restoration to a secure or blessed state.

8 .   WATER BAPTISM is essential to our obedience after reconciliation with God. The Baptism is one immersion (not three) “In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost” as Jesus commanded. Mt. 28:19: 3:13-17, Mk. 16, 15, Acts.2:38r 8:38, 39; Acts 19:1-6; Rom. 6:1.

  1. LORD’S SUPPER was instituted by Jesus Christ that all believers (all members of the family of God) might partake thereof regularly, “the Lord’s death till he comes”. The emblems used are “unleavened bread” and the juice of “fruit of the vine. Anyone who eats and drink unworthily brings “damnation”, punishment and chastisement upon himself. Mt. 26: 26-29′ Lk. 22:17-20;  I Cor. 11: 22-30.
  2. REDEMPTION from the curse of the law, healing of sickness and diseases as well as continued Health are provided for all people through the sacrificial death of Jesus Christ. Ex. 15:26; Deut. 7:15; Ps. 103:1-5, Prov. 4: 20-22;Isa 53:1, 5, Mt. 8:10,1 Pet. 2:24, Mk.16:15, 18;Lk.l3:16, Jn. 14:12-14, 10:10; Acts 10; Jn. 4:14-16; 1Jn. 3:8.
  3. ENTIRE SANCTIFICATION IS A DEFINITE act of God’s grace, subsequent to the New Birth by which the believer’s heart is purified and made holy. It cannot be attained progressively by works, struggle or suppression, but it is obtained by faith in the sanctifying blood of Jesus Christ. Holiness of life and purity of heart are central to Christian living. Jn. 17:15-17; I Thess. 4:3, 7, 8; Eph. 5:35-37; Heb. 2:11, 10:10, 14 Heb. 12:11, 12, Tit. 2: 11-15; I Jn. 1:7, Heb. 12:4.
  4. BAPTISM IN THE HOLY GHOST is the endowment of power from on high upon the sanctified believer. It is the promise of the Father: it is accompanied by the initial evidence of speaking in tongues as the Spirit gives utterance. Mt. 3:11, Mk. 1:8, Lk. 3:10; Lk. 24:49; Jn. 1:30; 7:37-39; 14: 16, 17, 26, 15:26; 16:12-15; Acts 1:5-8; Mk.l6:17; Acts 2:1-18; Acts 10:44-46; 10:1-6.
  5. PERSONAL EVANGELISM is a God-given and God-ordained Ministry for every believer. Jesus commanded and God requires every believer to be a compassionate and fruitful soul winner, bringing others to Christ. Mt. 28:19-20. Mk. 16:15; Lk. 24:46-49. Jn. 17:12, Acts. 1:8; 8:1-4, Ps, 176:5, 6; Pro. 11:30; Dan. 12:3, Ezek. 3:17-21.
  6. MARRIAGE is binding for life. Monogamy is the uniform teaching of the Bible. Polygamy is contrary to God’s perfect will and institution; the Bible forbids a believer marrying an unbeliever. Also, under the New Testament dispensation no one has a right to divorce and remarry while the first companion lives. When a person becomes converted, necessary restitution, on this line, must be done without delay if he has married wrongly. Gen. 2:24; Deut. 7:14; Josh 23:11-13, 1Cor. 6:11-13; Pro. 30:10-31, Mal.2:14-15; Rom.7:2,3 Eph. 5:31-33; Mt. 5:31, 32; 19:3-9; Mk. 10:2-12; Lk. 16: 18; Jn.4:15-19; Gen. 20:3-7.
  7. RAPTURE (commonly referred to as the first phase or stage of the SECOND COMING OF CHRIST) is the catching away from the earth of all living saints and all who died in the Lord. The Rapture will take place before the Great Tribulation and can happen any time from now. “In a twinkling of an eye” without a moment’s warning “the trumpet shall sound” and the dead in Christ shall rise first then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air and so shall we ever be with the Lord. Mt. 24: 34-36, 1 Cor. 15:51-58; 1 Thess. 4: 16-18; Phil. 3: 20, 21.
  8. RESURRECTION OF THE DEAD is taught in Holy Scripture as the immortality of the soul. Every individual who has lived will be resurrected, some to honour and glory and others to everlasting shame and contempt. Job 19:25-27, Ps. 71:20; Dan. 12:2. Jn. 5:28-29; I Cor. 15:12-57; 1Thess. 4:13-16, Heb. 6:1, Phil. 3:8-11; Rev. 20:4-6, 12,13.
  9. The GREAT TRIBULATION will occur after the Rapture and will be a time of terrible suffering on earth. It is also referred to as the time of Jacob’s trouble. Mt. 24:21, 22,29; Rev. 9:16; Mark 13:19; 2 Thess. 2:3-12, Rev. 13. During this time, the Antichrist will take possession of this world for a reign of terror.  He would not be a system or organization but a person – supernatural diabolical being, in the form of a man, who will blaspheme and proclaim himself to be God (Dan. 8:23-25; 2 Thess. 2:7-12; Rev. 13:1-12).
  10. THE MARRIAGE SUPPER OF THE LAMB will take place above while the Tribulation continues on earth. Rev. 19: 1-10.
  11. The SECOND COMING OF CHRIST will be just as literal and visible as His going away, and He is coming to execute judgement upon the ungodly, He will also, then set up His Kingdom and reign on this present earth for a thousand years. Zech. 14:3, 4; Matt. 25:31-46; Mt. 26:64; Mk. 13:24-37; 2 Thess. 1:7-10; 2 Thess. 2:8, Jude 14:15.
  12. THE CHRIST’S MILLENNIAL REIGN is the 1,000 years literal reign of Jesus on earth, which will be ushered in by the coming of Jesus back to earth with ten thousand of His saints. At this time, He will judge the nations that dwell upon the face of the earth. Jude 14, 15; 2 Thess. 1:7- During the time the devil will be bound. Rev.20:2,3. It will be a reign of peace and blessing. Is. 11:6-9; 5:25; Hos. 2:18; Zee. 14:9-20; Isa.2:2-4.
  13. That the GREAT WHITE THRONE JUDGEMENT is when God finally judges all (the living and the dead, small and great) who has ever lived on the face of the earth, according to their works, this is after the Millennium. At this time the final judgement called the Great White throne Judgement will be held. All the saints who have not yet been judged (believers’ judgement of sin was accomplished by Christ on the cross (Jn.5:25) All men stand before God at this time. The devil and his angels are included at this time also and will be sent to the lake of fire forever. Mt 10:5; 11:21-24; 12:41; 43; Jn. 5:28-29, Rom. 2:15, 16; 14:2, 2 Pt. 9; Jude 6: 1 Cor. 6:1-4; Acts 10:42 Rev. 20:11-15.
  14. That the NEW HEAVEN AND THE NEW EARTH “wherein dwelleth righteousness” will be made by God and the redeemed shall dwell with God forever. This present earth which has been polluted by sin will pass away after the Great White Throne Judgement. (Ps. 10’2: 25, 26; Isa. 51:6; 65:17; Mt. 5:18; 24:35, 2 Pt 3:10-13, Rev. 21:1). No unclean thing will be We shall know each other. Our knowledge having been perfected. There will be no more curse upon anything, there will be no more night, the glory of the Lord will be the light thereof. Is. 66:22, 2 Pet. 3:12,13; 1Cor. 13:12, I Jn. 3:2,3; Rev. 21:1-7; 22:1-5.
  15. That HELL-FIRE is a place of everlasting punishment where sinners (all who do not have their names in the book of life) will suffer torments forever and ever. It was prepared for the devil and his angels (Mt. 25:41) but God has decreed that the wicked and those who forget Him and reject Christ will also be cast there because of their sin and neglect of His Ps. 9:17; Mt. 25:46, Lk.12: 4, 5; 16: 19-31; Mt. 5:22, 30; Mk. 9: 43-47; Rev. 14:10, 11; 20:10, 12-15.

Other major Biblical Doctrines

  1. Eschatology:The doctrine of end times and the afterlife.
  2. Ecclesiology : The doctrine of the church.
  3. Eschatology The doctrine of end times and after life.
  4. Trinity : the doctrine of the Godhead , Father, Son & Holy Spirit
  5. Justification by Grace * Sanctification    *Resurrection  *Redemption.

 

 

 

CONCLUSION

         Sound Doctrine Matters a lot

According to biblical texts, doctrine is not just academic; it serves vital functions to fulfil God’s purpose for humanity. It must thus be disseminated faithfully with the wisdom and power of God. (1 Cor.1:24) which is Christ.

  • Worldview: It provides the framework through which believers understand God, themselves, and the world. Gives the ability to serve, worship, referenced, honour and be obedient to His Word and reign with Him as lords and kings.

Bishop Olugbenga S. Onasanwo JP, FCTI                                          The Presiding Bishop of Upper Room Christian Citadel Ministry (URCCM) and the Rector of  URCCM Theological Seminary/Bible College since 2015. 

 

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Last Update: May 1, 2026