TUESDAY July 25, 2023

Solid Biblical Doctrine

Take heed to yourself and to the doctrine. Continue in them, for in doing this you will save both yourself and those who hear you.
1 Timothy 4:16

Christians need to understand biblical doctrine. For instance, what does the Bible teach about justification by faith? We are saved by faith! A knowledge of biblical doctrine is essential to guard yourself from being deceived about salvation––entrance into heaven––eternity.

Some people become very legalistic when it comes to the teaching of salvation. At times, I have been falsely accused of teaching that salvation is by works. Seriously, I do not believe you are saved by works. The Bible clearly teaches that true salvation in a believer’s life naturally brings forth true works (James 2:14-26).

Catholic and Protestant Churches will traditionally christen or baptize infants, believing this will make them a child of God––fit for salvation. They teach that children are saved by baptism. First of all, when you study the Bible, baptism is not instituted for infants. Baptism is instituted for those who understand the meaning of becoming baptized. They understand repentance. Jesus has become their personal Lord and Savior. They realize the need to have a personal love relationship with Christ. This is very important. An infant does not know about repentance of sin! In fact, if a child dies before the age of accountability, they would go to heaven. Parents, there is no need to worry about the soul of a young child.

Those who reach the age of accountability fully understand the difference between right and wrong. When I do funerals, sometimes it can be very upsetting. If a young adult has died due to a drug overdose or from drinking too much alcohol, some parents ask, “Can you please preach that they are in heaven?” I cannot do that; I am sorry. I have to preach the Gospel––the truth of God. I cannot say whether they are in heaven or hell. I do not know what they said to God in their last moments of their life. God is a just Judge. I am not God. All I can say is a person’s life is best known by their fruits––the way they lived their lives.

Good conduct arises out of good doctrine.
~John Stott~

For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!