Sound Doctrine

There are many people whom I appreciate deeply, but with whom I disagree on a number of issues. Respect does not (or at least should not) dissipate when there is a difference of opinion.

Among the various publications that I read is one that comes from Faulkner University entitled, "Preacher Talk." There are usually several articles within this publication with which I do not agree.

However, in the most recent issue an article caught my attention. It deals with the phrase "sound doctrine." Often this phrase is used by those who are ardent supporters of traditionalism who tend to recoil at any type of change when it comes to "church matters." This article seeks to correct the misunderstanding of what "sound doctrine" is.

Here is the article:
"Paul told the young evangelist Titus, "But as for you, teach what accords with sound doctrine" (Titus 2:1). This passage is often quoted in a context indicating Paul is telling preachers to deal with such doctrinal matters as instrumental music, the necessity of baptism, premillennialism, authorized worship, etc. While these are subjects that preachers need to deal with, those are not the kinds of things to which Paul is urging Titus to give attention."

"Instead he is urging him to address the issues of everyday living faced by members of all ages and of both genders, such as dignity, self-control, reverence, helpful speech and family relationships; things which, ironically, those who give most of their attention to the other named issues tend to neglect."