Sound Speech or Sound Silence? 
 

by Connie W. Adams

The book of Titus is a divine treatise on the subject of ``sound doctrine.'' Sound doctrine is to be employed in exhorting and convincing the gainsayers (Titus 1:9). The word ``sound'' means literally, ``in good health'' or ``wholesome.'' In reference to teaching it means free from any admixture of error. The design of ``sound doctrine'' is that the taught be ``sound in faith'' (Tit. 1:13 and 2:1,2). The fruit of ``sound doctrine'' is living ``soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world'' (Tit. 2:12). The vocabulary of ``sound doctrine'' is ``sound speech that cannot be condemned'' (Tit. 2:8). To employ ``sound speech'' is to speak ``as the oracles of God'' (1 Pet. 4:11). Doctrines that are sound can be expressed in language which is scripturally correct.  It is when men have doctrines to uphold which are unsound that they must invent unsound terms with which to discuss these doctrines. Every religious movement has been characterized by its own peculiar vocabulary.  A return to the faith and practice of the early church was, and is, impossible without a return to the language of the Scriptures in discussing religious topics.

 

But the writer would like to point out that the word of God requires sound speech, not silence. Whatever is included in the term ``sound doctrine'' is to be spoken, not silently contained within. Within the church of our Lord there are a number of practices in some quarters which are contrary to ``sound doctrine''; practices which relate to the organization and divine mission assigned the church. There are some preachers who, in private conversation, talk pretty sound, but do not have the courage to speak publicly what they profess in private to believe. Such are greatly in error, for they suppose they shall be approved because of their sound silence. Brethren, if you have any convictions concerning ``sound doctrine'' then speak up, exercising the vocabulary of sound doctrine -- sound speech! A ``sound  man'' ought to feel no hesitation in declaring himself openly  on anything which concerns the whole counsel of God.''

 

Other Articles by Connie W. Adams

Protecting Churches From Error
The Problem of Private Lust
The Trend Among the Young Preachers
Old Song, New Singers
Umbrella Religion
Lest Anyone Should Deceive You