Preserving Sound Doctrine

Understanding the What, Why and How of Standing Firm

When thinking of the What, Why and How questions, I’m reminded of the slapstick comedy routine featuring legendary comedians Abbot and Costello. Their infamous routine, “Who’s on First?” was performed before a live audience on National T.V. during The Steve Allen Variety Show back in 1957. In the routine, Abbot tries to explain to Costello the names of the players who made up the infield for a local baseball team. This hilarious interaction showed Costello becoming helplessly confused by the obscure names for each of the players identified by Abbot. To be specific, the infield players’ names included Who? (on first base), What? (on second base), Where? (on third base) and Why? (behind home plate). Costello could never quite figure out which player was on which base. Innocently, Costello asked Abbot, ‘Who is playing on first base?’ and receiving back the answer, ‘That’s right, Who is on first base!’ Costello fires back, ‘How should I know, I’m wanting you to tell me what player is on first base,’ To which Abbot retorts, ‘No! What is on second base, Who is on first base.’ This exchange unmercifully continues for about 5 minutes. Finally, out of combined feelings of exasperation, Abbot asked if his bewildered friend if he wanted to know the name of the team’s starting pitcher, to which Costello replied, “I don’t know and I don’t care!”

Costello’s closing comment in the comedy routine, unintentionally and unknowingly provides a fitting explanation of the difference between the two terms ignorance (I don’t know) and apathy (I don’t care). However, it’s no laughing matter when seeking answers to the imposing questions, ‘What is required for Standing Firm in our faith, Why is it that important and How can it be achieved?’ Certainly, settling for either ignorance or apathy will not suffice, if we are truly committed to this attaining this worthy goal.

In the INTRODUCTION, I sought to provide a basic understanding of what it means to “Stand firm in all the will of God” (Col. 4:12). In this section, we will consider meeting this challenge by choosing to preserve sound doctrine in our faith; that is what we believe and hold to be true about God’s word and god’s way to salvation. In this chapter we will address the questions What, Why and How of, and some potential obstacles to, standing firm in our faith.

The idea of standing firm reminds me of a valuable lesson I learned while playing football for a local college. Being of slight height at 5 feet 10 inches and weighing in at measly 150 pounds, I was the second smallest player on the team. Undeterred, I chose to play the position of defensive corner back and middle safety.  I had quick reactions and decent speed needed to be a good defender. Still, my coach realized that I, and the other defensive backs of smaller stature, would struggle with tackling bigger and stronger running backs and wide receivers. The only exception was a tall, well-built player who went on to play professionally for the Cincinnati Bengals. No such chance for me. Even at Junior college level, I would have to stand up and stand firm against the blunt force of my opponent’s running attacks. To prepare for the inevitable physical confrontations we would face, our coach taught us the Universal Position, used in several sports. This position required us to assume a low and wide body stance that created a solid base of support capable of sustaining forceful impact. Using this position enabled me to endure or avoid blocks and to make effective tackles. I appreciated the coach preparing me to stand my ground against worthy and trying opponents. That strategy enabled me to play a couple of seasons before hanging up my cleats!

You may have already guessed why I bothered to mention this sports illustration. It is a reality, that as believers in Christ, we will face strong opponents and will need a strategy to prepare for spiritual attacks. The Apostle Peter gave this warning, “Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy, the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith” (1 Peter 5:8-9). Just as it was imperative for me as a football player to prepare for the attacks of the opposing team, it is essential for believers to be able be grounded and stand firm in their faith when under spiritual attack.

R.C. Sproul, Director of Ligonier Ministries, provides Daily Discipleship Resources. In an article entitled Divisions in the Church, it offered an intriguing quote: “Through arguments, we learn who truly holds to the Apostolic faith taught in the Scriptures and who does not. Indeed, we see this throughout history. Church historians and theologians have said time and again that doctrinal arguments and heresies have the salutary benefit of forcing the church to more accurately define the Christian faith according to Scripture.” ¹

One of the obstacles to standing firmin one’s faith is being confronted with a barrage of doctrinal arguments or, worse yet, experience heresies aimed at attacking the foundations of the Christian faith. Such attacks will require an ability to endure the force of the theological arguments and resist the tendency to collapse under the pressure of heretical teachings. Within Christendom today, there are a number of commonly known, but often misunderstood, foundational theological doctrines that can impact one’s faith and spiritual walk. Unfortunately, many of these doctrines are met with a degree of confusion or outright disagreement. Therefore, it is my intent and focus of Part 1 of this book to address a number of debatable doctrines and to still remain standing firm in one’s faith and Christian walk. To do so, we will strive to take on the challenge of both understanding and preserving sound doctrine, especially in a world bent on compromising the truth and promoting cultural values which contradict the clear teachings of Scripture. This abdication of sound teaching should be an alarming concern for anyone desiring to maintain and live out a vibrant Christian walk and lifestyle.

The Apostle Paul gave a solemn warning in his letter to Titus. It is also a warning worth hearing and heeding for us all today. Paul wrote, “You, however, must teach what is appropriate to sound doctrine. Teach the older men to be…sound in faith” (Titus 2:1-2). The Apostle Paul echoes a similar warning to Timothy, his other young protégé and fellow missionary assistant. “I give you this charge: Preach the word; be prepared…and careful instruction. For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths” (2 Timothy 4:2-4).

It is my fear that what took place during the times of the early churches is being revisited, and possibly even magnified, in the church today. Now is the time to have a cleared understand of what comprises sound doctrine and to be able to confront unsound doctrine. During this Introductory chapter, three pertinent questions related to preserving sound doctrine will be presented. The questions are:

• What Does Preserving Sound Doctrine Mean?
• Why is Preserving Sound Doctrine that Important?
• How is Preserving Sound Doctrine Achieved?

Each question will be discussed with the clear intent of both clarifying and maintaining sound doctrine. This quest to answer these questions should affect our theological beliefs and, even more importantly how we live out our faith in real and practical ways. This chapter, and book as a whole, is strategically aimed at stimulating our minds, activating our hearts and guiding our efforts in recognizing and confronting various theological topics which are biblically and culturally relevant.

Before actively addressing these questions, I want to offer a personal anecdote of when and how I first became acutely aware of my need for understanding and pursuing sound doctrine. Most of my early life as a child and teenager was unfettered by any substantial religious instruction. And yet, by the grace of God, and a godly Aunt who prayed for me for 18 years, I eventually surrendered my life to Christ as Savior and Lord. Fortunately, I joined a church that was committed to personal evangelism and spiritual development.

Living in Southern California in the late 1960’s, I was subjected to many questionable and persuasive teachings including that of Dr. Timothy Leary, who’s admonition to the youth was to “Turn on (via psychedelic drugs) and Tune in” (to experience God)! This was also a time when the catchy mantra, “Make Love, Not War” was echoed across the land. Providentially, the Jesus Revolution was beginning to take off. Even so, as a young neophyte Christian, I found myself confronted with a variety of theological questions which I struggled to comprehend and navigate. These puzzling questions included:

• Who is responsible for my salvation, me or God?
• How can I know who’s speaking the truth and who is not?
• What should I do or not do as one desiring to faithfully follow Christ?
• When will Jesus Christ come back for us and what must I do to be ready?
• What does it really mean to be filled, anointed and baptized by the Holy Spirit?

These and other questions offered a significant challenge to my new and vulnerable faith. Upon my conversion, I quickly became aware that I lacked a biblical foundation and needed help to grow my Christian faith. Fortunately, I became active in the church’s college ministry which provided me with ample support for spiritual development. I was mentored by both the college pastor and one college intern who took me under his spiritual wings and taught me what it meant to be serious about living for Christ. Eventually, I was invited to be a part of the college leadership team which I served on until I graduated from seminary 5 years later. Since then, It has been a lifetime (over 50 years) of seeking to better understand and apply God’s word to my life, both through informal church-based Biblical instruction and through formal theological training.

Early in my career, I had the opportunity of teaching the Bible at a Christian High School, be a Youth Pastor and a Program Director at a Christian Conference Center. I relished every chance I had to teach God’s word to people in all age groups. In my later years, at the age of 45, I earned a Doctorate in Education (Ed.D) which afforded me the occasion to teach at the university, seminary and Masters levels. In addition to teaching in the states, I have taught abroad in 3 countries in Africa and 4 countries in South America. These combined teaching stints took place over a period of four decades. As a result, I have developed a passion for training the next generation of Christian leaders and instructing them to teach God’s word with accuracy and accountability.

While I recognize that there will always be differences of opinions and opposing views pertaining to assorted theological doctrines, I have committed myself to using “the whole counsel of God” (Acts 20:28) and teaching the Scriptures with “integrity, seriousness and soundness” (Titus 1:7). I invite you to come along on this theological journey of exploring some fundamental doctrines which have become confused, even within the Christian community. Woefully, some pastors and Bible teachers have been guilty of twisting or distorting the Scriptures in an attempt to make it say what they wanted it to say, thus, changing the true meaning of a passage and/or losing the original intent of the writers of Scripture. My pursuit of preserving sound doctrine has necessitated that I incorporate a variety of biblical resources, multiple cross-references, re-read parts of books focused on related theological issues and staunchly secure input from trusted Bible scholars. Their valuable wisdom and counsel is liberally scattered throughout this book, along with insights from my personal study and biblical research.

What Does Preserving Sound Doctrine Mean?

An Explanation: It is interesting to note that the phrase “sound doctrine” was used or implied by the Apostle Paul several times in his writings to Timothy and Titus, his two young protégés and fellow missionary companions. In the pages to come, we will look more intently into how and why Paul exhorted both of them to understand and preserve sound doctrine.As noted in The Key Word Study Bible, the Greek word for “sound” is Hygiano and refers to the ideas of being “safe, physically well or healthy” while, in reference to faith and doctrine, it is being “true, pure and uncorrupted.” The Greek word for “doctrine” is Didaskalia and refers to “that which is taught, detailed instruction or indoctrination. It carries with it the ideas of “divinely revealed truth” or instruction requiring “theological elaboration and accurate interpretation.” ² 

The Apostle Paul spoke to this very issue when he challenged Timothy by writing, “Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the truth” (2 Timothy 2:15). Please note, that unless indicated, all Bible references are taken from the New International Version (NIV). These challenges to Timothy and Titus also apply to anyone who takes up the vital role of teaching the Scriptures. Perhaps, this is the reason that James, Jesus’ brother and leader of the newly formed church in Jerusalem, wrote these sobering words, “Not many of you should become teachers, my fellow brothers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly” (James 3:1).

An Observation: The phrase, “sound doctrine” is used 4 times in Paul’s writings to Timothy and 5 times to Titus, if you include the phrase “sound in faith” (Titus 1:13; 2:2). Thereare several characteristics of sound doctrine that can be gleaned from Paul’s letters to Timothy and Titus. Paul revealed that Sound Doctrine will…

• “conform to the glorious Gospel of God.” (1 Tim. 1:10-11)
• “agree to the sound instruction of our Lord Jesus Christ.” (1 Timothy 6:3)
• “keep a pattern of sound teaching” shared by Paul and others. (2 Tim.1:13)
• “correct, rebuke and encourage with…careful instruction.” (2 Tim. 4:2-3)
• “hold firmly to the trustworthy message.” (Titus 1:9)
• “not pay attention to myths…or reject the truth.” (Titus 1:14)
• “teach what is…sound in faith.” (Titus 2:1-2)

Certainly, Paul had legitimate reasons for strongly exhorting them both to “keep hold of the deep truths of the faith with a clear conscience” (1 Timothy 3:9). Did you notice the correlation of sound doctrine with sound instruction, sound teaching and being sound in faith? It’s indispensable to both know what comprises sound doctrine and to comprehend why it’s important for believers to preserve it. Both our teaching (words) and our lives (actions) need to reflect the Gospel truth. Afterall, Jesus Christ professed, “I am the way, the life and the truth” (John 14:6).

It is also notable that Paul added the phrase “false doctrine” in 1 Timothy 1:2. The word “truth” is found fifteen times in his three letters to them both. The Greek word for truth is Aletheia and includes the synonyms “true, reality, fact, integrity, and virtue.” It’s most commonly used in connection to one’s beliefs or a person’s teachings. With respect to theology, the word implies “absolute, ultimate and divinely revealed truth,” or in other words, true truth! This is the type of truth that is dependable, faithful and is in perfect fidelity with God’s revealed words found in the Bible.

During the last supper with his disciples, Jesus, prayed to his Heavenly Father on their behalf. He knew they were struggling with comprehending his soon departure, as he had often predicted. He prayed, “Sanctify them by the truth, your word is truth” (John 17:17). The Key Word Study Bible provides this additional insight about truth. “Jesus Christ is the embodiment of truth himself…and the consummate disclosure of God to man…In biblical terms, truth is determined by divine viewpoint and is expressed through revelation, both creational and redemptive.”

A Personal Connection: I grew up in the Los Angeles basin known for its “glitter and glamour.” The L.A. area was permeated with plenty of worldly attractions, distractions and temptations. It was the home of Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Sunset Strip, Disneyland, Universal Studios, Dodger Stadium and of course the “Muscle Beach” in Santa Monica and a surfer’s paradise in Malibu. Being spiritually “wet behind the ears,” I was in dire need of a strong spiritual support system otherwise I could have easily been swallowed up by all the worldly temptations surrounding me. Thankfully, these more mature Band of Brothers taught me to keep my focus on lasting “Heavenly treasures’ (Eph. 1:3, 2:7), rather than on the fleeting pleasures of this world (Hebrews 11:25). I am indebted to them for their guidance and encouragement along my spiritual journey. As a result, I initially experienced a meteoric time of spiritual growth in my Christian life. At that time, the spiritual “race” that the Apostle Paul described in his letter to the Philippians, seemed more like a sprint rather than a marathon. I came to understand, as did Paul, that I would need to “press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus” (Phil. 3:14).

Paul, a busy missionary and advocate for the faith, intentionally took time to mentor and train young Timothy and Titus. Endearingly, he called each one, “my true son in the faith” (1 Timothy 1:2; Titus 1:4). Paul grew to have absolute confidence because of their faithful dedication to his mission work. Even so, Paul had to constantly warn and charge them to remain true to the faith and to effectively pass it on to others. He petitioned them saying, “You must teach what is in accord with sound doctrine…in everything, set them an example by doing what is good” (Titus 2:1-2, 7).

To accomplish this end, Paul understood that he needed to set the primary example for Timothy and Titus to follow, since they and others looked to him for leadership and guidance. Paul declared, “For this purpose I was appointed a herald and an Apostle—I amtelling the truth, I am…a true and faithful teacher” (1 Tim. 2:7). To the Corinthian church, he simply intoned, “Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ” (1 Cor. 11:1). To the church in Philippi, he elaborated a bit more by stating, “The things which you have learnedand received and heard and seen in me, practice these things [in daily life], and the God [who is the source] of peace and well-being will be with you” (Phil. 4:9 AMP).

Why is Preserving Sound Doctrine That Important?

Roy Zuck, past Professor at Dallas Theological Seminary, made the following assessment in his scholarly book, Basic Bible Interpretation – A Practical Guide to Discovering Biblical Truth. “We are responsible to seek to know the truth, as presented in God’s word. This is essential for our own spiritual lives and for effectiveness in ministering to others. Ensuring the word of God, whether impersonal counseling, teaching a class or Bible study group, or preaching, the knowledge we impart, based on our understanding of the Scriptures, will definitely affect others. Their lives are in our hands. Without proper Biblical interpretation, the theology of an individual or of an entire church may be misdirected or superficial and, as ministry, unbalanced.” ³

Paul made sure that Timothy and Titus had this same degree of weight in their teaching ministry. In his letters to them, he repeatedly described the vital importance of preserving sound doctrine. And, by extension, his words of admonition and exhortation apply to anyone involved in teaching God’s word. This is true for all biblical instruction, whether it be formal or informal, inside or outside of the church, in small groups or at institutions of higher learning. Zuck underscores this point, “It is essential for understanding and teaching the Bible properly…Others unknowingly come away from the Bible with faulty interpretations. Why? Because of inadequate attention to the principles for understanding and interpreting the Scriptures.”

In his first letter to Timothy, Paul expressed his concern for the people in Ephesus who were being misled by false teachers teaching “myths” and “false doctrines” (1:3). Paul sent Timothy there to help the people in the church and to train leaders. Why was he concerned? Because this false teaching was “promoting controversial speculations rather than advancing God’s work” (1:4). He was concerned that they were being swayed by these teachings which was leading them away “from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith” (1:5). Worse yet, these false teachers had “departed from these and turned to meaningless talk (1:7). Therefore, Paul vehemently warned Timothy to confront these “liars” who were teaching what was “contrary to sound doctrine” (1:10). Sadly, Paul had to remind Timothy of the need to “fight the battle well, holding on to faith…which some have rejected and so have suffered shipwreck with regard to the faith” (1:18-19). He also tells Timothy that God “wants all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth” (2:3-4).

Paul’s letter toTitus begins with this declaration, “I have been sent to proclaim faith to those God has chosen and to teach them toknow the truth that shows them how tolive godly lives” (Titus 1:1 NLT). Like Timothy, Paul admonishes Titus to be careful to teach the leaders in the church at Crete to make it a goal of preserving sound doctrine. He states that he and the church leaders he trains are to, “hold firmly to the trustworthy message…encourage others by sound doctrine and refute those who oppose it” (Titus 1:8-9). It is quite apparent that preserving sound doctrine was of quintessential importance to Paul. He also expected Timothy and Titus to be exemplary models and to faithfully protect the spiritual well-being of the believers under their care. For additional instructions to Timothy and Titus on teaching and preserving sound doctrine, please refer to the notes on Chapter 1 in the APPENDIX..

The Apostle Peter echoed a similar truth to the church leaders he was responsible for training. “To the elders among you, I appeal as a fellow elder…Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them…being examples to the flock” (1 Peter 5:1-3). These are solemn admonitions worthy to b heeded by anyone in leadership roles in the church. Both Paul and Peter knew that a strong spiritual root system would be indispensable for all church leaders to offset the blustery winds of the devil’s lies and deceptions. Tragically, the destructive teachings of unrelenting false teachers in the early church had its toll in causing many to have “wandered from the faith” (1 Tim. 6:10) or gloomily, “suffered shipwreck with regard to their faith” (1 Tim. 1:19). This rightful concern for the churches then also showcases the magnitude of the critical need to preserve sound doctrine in our churches today. This brings us to the need to address one remaining, and rather imposing, question.

How is Preserving Sound Doctrine Achieved?

Reaching this lofty goal will require, on our part, developing an intentional strategy to achieve it. I believe an effective strategy for preserving sound doctrine must include:

1. Developing Spiritual Discernment
2. Accurately Interpreting Scripture
3. Effectively Incorporating Biblical Resources

Achieving the goal of preserving sound doctrine is a formidable challenge. Nonetheless, it can be achieved as we trust God to provide us with internal fortitude needed and the external provisions accessible to pursue it. Over the years, I have had benefitted from leaning on and learning from seminary professors, seminary students and from numerous books I have read that have aided me in teaching Hermeneutics (the basic principles of Bible interpretation) to others. Each of these sources has given me valuable input needed to pursue this challenging goal.

1. Developing Spiritual Discernment

Hosea 14:9 makes this imposing statement, “Let those who are wise understand these things. Let those with discernment listen carefully. The paths of the Lord are true and right, and righteous people live by walking in them” (Hosea 14:9 NLT). Spiritual discernment is crucial if we are going to walk in the true and right paths of the Lord..

The Rationale: Develop and maintaining godly discernment will aid us in offsetting the onslaught of false teaching and deception that is becoming more and more rampant in our world today. Consider the intense warnings heralded by the early apostles:

• The Apostle Paul – “People will be unholy…having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with such people” (2 Timothy 3:2-5).
• The Apostle Peter – “There will be false teachers among you. They will secretly introduce destructive heresies” (2 Peter 2:1).
• The Apostle John – “Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see if they are from God…many false prophets have gone into the world” (I John 4:1).

Below I have offered some suggestions for implementing an intentional plan for developing spiritual discernment in our lives:

1. Spend quantity and quality time in the Bible! Renowned Bible teacher and Pastor, John McArthur gave a quote I have never forgotten. He encouraged his listeners to, “Saturate yourself in God’s Word until your blood starts bibling.” All humor aside, immersing oneself in the Bible is a serious requisite for spiritual growth. This truism is illustrated by the story of a young man who was a new convert to Christ. In his insatiable desire to learn more about his new faith, he began “gobbling up” the teachings of the Bile, often studying the Bible for hours on end and memorizing large portions of Scripture. As a result, he rapidly grew spiritually. So much so, that it caught the attention of another young man who had attended the same church for many years. One day he cornered the new believer and quizzically asked, “I have been coming to this church for over 20 years and yet in one year, you have a greater knowledge and understanding of the Bible than I do.” Somewhat apologetically, the young man replied. “Well, I guess it goes to show that spiritually we grow word by word and not day by day.” 1 Peter 2:2-3 urges, “Like newborn babies, crave the pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation, now that you have tasted the Lord.”

2. Spend quantity and quality time in prayer! As a new believer, I was reluctant to pray in small or large groups, fearing I would sound simplistic or uniformed. Nonetheless, my mentor-friend pushed me forward in this needed area of spiritual growth. Just a few months after accepting Christ, he signed me up to do the opening prayer at the start of a college group meeting. Mind you, our church college group was rather LARGE in number, often having over 100 college students in attendance. I recall going into the meeting with fear and trepidation. However, after bumbling my way through the prayer, there was along with an overwhelming sense of relief, there was a delightful sense of achievement. I began to understand that prayer should be viewed as a privilege, not a performance and an invitation rather than an obligation. James 1:5 promises, “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” He also adds, “Pray for one another, the prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective” (5:16).

3. Spend quality time with other believers! Since my earliest days as a new believer, I have been fortunate to be a member of solid, Bible teaching churches with many godly friends. These friends were willing to put an arm around my shoulder as well as give me a kick in the pants if needed. During my mid-thirties, it was a time in my life when such godly support was desperately needed. I regularly joined up with a small group of men from church for breakfast, honest sharing and prayer. One day, I somewhat sheepishly confessed to the group that I was contemplating divorcing my wife. Unlike Job’s “friends” (Job 42:7), without any condemning words or spirit of judgment, these men listened to me, prayed for me and offered me encouragement and wise guidance. Graciously, God used these men to help me come to my senses and give up such a dreadful notion of divorcing my wife who had been faithful to love me the past 9 years.

Hebrews 3:12 warns, “See to it, brothers and sisters, that none of you has a sinful heart that turns away from the living God. But encourage one another daily…so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness.” Perhaps that is why the author of Hebrews later wrote additional strong words of admonition, “Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess…and let us consider how we may spur one another toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing” (Hebrews 10:23-25). On a more positive note. Paul shared with Philemon, his dear friend and fellow worker, these powerful words, “Your love has given me great joy an encouragement, because you, brother, have refreshed the hearts of the Lord’s people…I do wish, brother, that you…refresh my heart in Christ” (Philemon 1:7, 10). Imagine, Paul asking a brother to spiritually refresh his heart. If he needed spiritual refreshment, then we definitely do too.

4. Spend quality time with our Triune God! The Psalmist revealed, “As for me, it is good to be near God. I have made the Sovereign LORD my refuge” (Psalm 73:12). Peter who knew a thing or two about humility clamored, “Humble yourselves…under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you” (1 Peter 5:6-7). I love what King David said about his growing intimacy with God, “My heart has heard you say, “Come and talk with me.” And my heart responds, “Lord, I am coming” (Psalm 27:8 NLT). It is so amazing to me that Christ, even as Sovereign Lord and Creator of all things (Col. 1:15-180, invites you and I into an intimate relationship with himself. Can you imagine turning down the opportunity to personally meet with one of your favorite celebrities, athlete, musician, artist, author or any other noteworthy historical figure?  Why then are we so nonchalant and stoic about God’s daily invitation to meet with him?

2. Accurately Interpreting Scripture

Of grave importance is basic knowledge and working understanding of Hermeneutics (the principles of interpretation). Principally, because it will enable us to avoid making horrendous mistakes when interpreting God’s word. It’s also imperative that we not rely solely on our intuition or opinion when trying to discern the meaning of a biblical passage, particularly one that is difficult or controversial. The Apostle Paul wrote, “Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15).

Let’s take seriously Paul’s charge about handling and interpreting the Bible accurately. Likewise, prior to correctly interpreting the Bible, we will need to know how to effectively study the Bible. Kay Arthur, in her book, How to Study the Bible – The Lasting Rewards of the Inductive Method lays out a simple, yet very helpful, three-step approach to personal Bible study. It is known as the Inductive Bible Study Method. The Inductive Bible Study Method incorporates these three general steps:

1. Observation – Discovering what the passage is saying! 
2. Interpretation – Discovering what the passage actually means!
3. Application – Discovering how the passage applies to our lives!

Kay Arthur often chimes this catchy phrase, “Observation comes before Interpretation and Application must follow interpretation.” ⁴ Regrettably, it is not in the scope of this book to give a detailed explanation of the 3 steps of the Inductive Bible Study Method. Instead, I encourage you to read Kay Arthur’s excellent book for yourself. Even so, I feel that providing a general understanding of these three steps can be quite beneficial for any motivated student of Scripture. These 3 Bible study steps, along with an explanation of the differences between the Inductive and Deductive methods can be found in the APPENDIX, under Chapter 2. In addition, I have included some insightful steps for correctly interpreting Scripture gleaned from Dade Ronan’s book, Conquering Bible Interpretation. Ronan argues, “There are many problems (and principles) that must be considered when interpreting the Word of God. While looking at each of these problems (and principles), a good understanding can help a person to realize the importance of Bible study.” ⁵

In my humble opinion, the Application step is the most neglected part in Bible studies, sermons and other forms of biblical instruction. This is extremely unfortunate for this step should be of upmost importance for us all when reading, listening to, or teaching Scripture. Why? It’s because it’s where, spiritually speaking, “the rubber meets the road.” This decisive step is designed to help us carefully consider how the Bible can, and should, impact our lives in very practical and tangible ways. The Apostle John reminds us of this truth, “Let us not love [merely in theory] with word or with tongue [giving lip service to compassion], but in action and in truth [in practice and in sincerity, because practical acts of love are more than words]” (1 John 3:18 AMP). The Apostle James was even more direct for he cautioned, “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says” (James 1:22). The point is, effective observation and correct interpretation will be of little lasting value if it doesn’t equate to meaningful application.

In Skip Heitzig’s very practical book, How to Study the Bible and Enjoy it, he emphasizes the significance and value of biblical application. He extols, “It is the application of scripture that makes a difference in our lives. Application is where the rubber meets the road. That’s why observation and interpretation always lead to application. Some people become experts in Scriptures, but their lives are unchanged. In the end, what good does it do to have a full head and an empty heart? The joy comes in applying the truth to our own lives. Only then, can we see that the Bible works!” ⁶

The Apostle Paul, in addition to his deep concern for effective study and correct interpretation of the Scriptures, he was also eager to praise those who did take the time and extra effort to seek out biblical truth. About the Berean disciples who showed great interest in his teachings. Luke, who was both Paul’s doctor and missionary companion, gushed, “Now the Berean Jews were of more noble character than those in Thessalonica, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true” (Acts 17:10). The Apostle Peter also spoke of the importance of correct biblical interpretation. He exclaimed, “But understand this…no prophecy of Scripture is a matter of or comes from one’s own [personal or special] interpretation, for no prophecy was ever made by an act of human will, but men moved by the Holy Spirit spoke from God” (2 Peter 1:20-21 AMP).

R. C. Sproul, in his book, Knowing Scripture, concurs with Peter in making this revealing statement. “Private interpretation never meant that individuals have the right to distort the Scriptures. With the right of private interpretation comes the sobering responsibility of accurate interpretation…when we don’t try to interpret words in a consistent way, the words will become a mass of confusion. When this happens in biblical interpretation, the Bible becomes a chameleon, changing the color of a skin against the changing background of the people doing the interpreting.” ⁷

Unfortunately, this is often the case. Even well-meaning Bible teachers and Pastors have, on occasion, misunderstood the actual intent of the passage because being of one or more hermeneutical errors. Below is a list of some common errors that can negatively affect and alter a correct biblical interpretation. Once again, please refer to the Appendix for a more complete explanation of these errors, complete with practical examples, biblical cross-references and scholarly quotes.

Common Interpretive Errors to Avoid:

1. Taking a Bible verse or passage out of its surrounding context.
2. Presuming to know the meaning and original intent of the author.
3. Assuming that one’s own ideas or the teachings of others are correct.
4. Not considering the diverse meanings of words found in the original languages.

Each hermeneutical error is critical to avoid if one seeks to properly interpret a Bible passage. Especially egregious are the presence of these errors when little effort is given to qualify one’s interpretive conclusions. Everyone is called to show due diligence in correctly interpreting God’s word. Paul’s admonition in this regard is not a polite request; it’s an imperative statement deserving our upmost attention and faithful implementation.

3. Effectively Incorporating Biblical Resources

While it is of quintessential importance to develop godly skills of discernment and to adhere to principles for correct biblical interpretation, it is also paramount to take advantage of the plethora of biblical resources available to assist us in correctly handling and applying God’s word. The Apostle Paul rightly believed in the viability of the Scriptures and its ability to give us the direction needed for our lives. He declared, “From infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation…All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work” (2 Timothy 3:15-17). Paul also understood the problem of relying exclusively on one’s own abilities and opinions to arrive at a proper conclusion, especially when one’s views run contrary to accepted biblical interpretations or to the clear teaching of Scripture. He clarified, “These are the things you are to teach and insist on. If anyone teaches otherwise and does not agree to the sound instruction of our Lord Jesus Christ and to godly teaching, they are conceited and understand nothing” (1 Tim. 6:2-4).  

The Apostle Peter also recognized the tendency for biblical instruction to be mishandled, if not kept in check. He specified, “Paul wrote you with the wisdom that God gave him…His letters contain some things that are hard to understand, which ignorant and unstable people distort, as they do the other Scriptures” (2 Peter 3:15-16). It’s one thing for Paul and the writers of Scripture to receive God’s direct guidance. It is, however, an entirely different matter to think that as Christians we will automatically comprehend the intention of the authors of Scripture without considering input from reliable biblical sources. There are a number of biblical resources available and intended to provide practical safeguards for correctly handling Scripture. One such safeguard is using a Hebrew or Greek Lexicon (biblical dictionary) that tie into the original languages used to write the Scriptures. The Hebrew language was used in writing the Old Testament and Greek was used in writing the New Testament. Lexicons are useful in providing additional synonyms, definitions and related cross-references for significant words in the Bible.

Author and Pastor, Bob Smith, speaks to the importance and value of incorporating the original biblical languages when seeking to properly understand the meaning of passage. He writes, “We need to remember that originally the Bible was not written in English but in Hebrew and Greek. What we are reading today are simply translations into English. In this connection, we must also recognize that each language has its own peculiar word usage and grammar, and that a knowledge of these peculiarities will enhance our understanding of the text.” ⁸

Most likely, you, like me, do not possess a post-graduate degree in Hebrew or Greek. Thankfully, we don’t need one to accurately interpret the Bible. Although, I must admit that I regretted not taking a course in Greek while in Seminary. Fortunately, I had other seminary students who took Greek and helped me to identify and utilize tools designed to incorporate both biblical languages into one’s study of Scripture. There are many diverse biblical resources available to the clergy and laymen alike. Most are easily accessible online through bible apps and can be purchased in a bundle at a greatly reduced price. The one my son, Previous college Pastor and current co-preacher at his church, prefers the using www.bluebetterbible.org for his Bible study and sermon preparation.

However, if you prefer as I do, to hold and read an actual book, they can be purchased from Christian bookstores or ordered online. I have purchased many biblical aids from www.christianbook.com  and believe each to have been a wise investment. These resources can be of great worth and lasting value. Why? Because they can provide you with an increased level of confidence and accuracy in your personal Bible study, teaching or preaching. I have relied heavily on these resources in the development of over a dozen biblical and theological courses which I have taught abroad and overseas. In fact, I have used a variety of biblical aids and in writing this book. Below are just a few basic Bible tools I recommend for someone wanting to build or add to your biblical library:

• An Exhaustive Concordance such as Strong’s or NIV which have both Hebrew and Greek Lexicons (dictionaries) in the back. Either one will provide synonyms and explanations for every word in the Bible. That is why it’s called Exhaustive!
• Old Testament and New Testament Expository Dictionaries such as Vines, Nelson or Thayer’s. Each will offer helpful detail on the meaning of selected words.
• The Key Word Bible, available in several translations, does exactly what it denotes. It identifies key words in Scripture and assigns each word a tiny number right in the text. This number is associated with the lexicons in the back of the Bible which list synonyms, cross-references and expanded definitions.
• One-Volume or Multi-volume Bible Commentary such as The Wycliffe Bible Commentary or The Expositors Bible Commentary. I recommend choosing a commentary that incorporates an Editor and reputable Bible scholars whom organize and provide multiple perspectives for a more balanced view of the content.

I have benefited greatly by using these biblical resources and you can too! My prayer is that you will experience more confidence and accuracy in your own study and teaching of God’s to others. As you develop and enhance your study skills using these aids, I am convinced that you will discover greater appreciation and credibility with those you teach. These resources that can provide the guardrails necessary for staying on track doctrinally and maneuvering around some bumpy theological terrains often filled with hermeneutical potholes leading to dangerous theological blow outs. So, choose wisely.

A fitting conclusion to this chapter is found in Revelation 1:3 which gives this encouraging Benediction: “Blessed is the one who reads these words…and who hear it and take to heart what is written in it.” Jesus also gave his disciples this amazing promise. “I have much more to say to you…But when he, the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth” (John 16:12–13).

This promise is also for us today. It is extremely encouraging and affirming to me to realize that Holy Spirit guide us in our understanding of God’s word. Afterall, the Spirit was the one that empowered and inspired the writers of Scripture in the first place (2 Peter 1:20). As we dedicate ourselves to studying and teaching the Bible with greater accuracy and integrity, we will have a greater sense of the Spirit leading and blessing our efforts. Subsequently, we will be both preserving sound doctrine in our faith and honoring God by passing on his blessings to others we serve.

Bibliographical notations listed in the order presented:

Basics of Bible Interpretation, Bob Smith (1978). Word Press, Waco, TX

Divisions in the Church, Table Talk Magazine(2012).Ligonier Ministries, Sanford, FL

Key Word Study Bible – NIV (1996), AMG Publishers, Chattanooga, TN

Basic Bible Interpretation, Roy B. Zuck (1984). David C. Cook, Col. Springs, CO

How to Study the Bible, Kay Arthur (1994). Harvest House, Eugene, OR

How to Study the Bible and Enjoy it, Skip Heitzig (2002). Tyndale, Wheaton, IL

Conquering Bible Interpretation, Dade Ronan (2002). Xulon Press, Fairfax, VA

Knowing Scripture, R. C. Sproul (1977), InterVarsity Press, Madison, WI