We NEED Doctrinal Teaching   
 

by Greg Gwin

 

It has been reported that American students are not doing well in important Math and Science studies.  In fact, they rank 35th in the world on achievement tests in Math, and 27th in Science.  However, it is also reported that the very same American students rank among the highest in the world regarding how they feel about their Math and Science abilities.  This is direct evidence of the over-emphasis that has been given in recent years to the subjective matters of self-worth and self-esteem.  Our educators have obviously worried too much about “feelings,” and not enough about real learning. We may be following the same mistaken agenda in our spiritual teaching.  It seems that we have lost a sense of balance in our preaching and in our Bible class studies.   We may be stressing certain “feel good” themes too much, while neglecting important instruction in matters of doctrine.  The results tend to indicate this.  We have a generation of Christians that don’t know and can’t explain simple doctrinal truths.  Many would be hard pressed to explain what’s wrong with instrumental music in worship, why we oppose church sponsored recreational and social activities, or what the Bible teaches about institutionalism and unscriptural church cooperative enterprises.   Some could not even describe the simple New Testament plan of salvation, or prove that baptism is essential for the remission of sins. Members of the Lord’s church once had the reputation as “people of the Book.”  We knew and could defend the truth on a wide variety of Bible subjects.  Members of various denominations dreaded, and even avoided, discussions with us because they knew that we knew the Bible and could answer their faulty arguments.  Sadly, we’ve lost much of that reputation.  Let’s get back to teaching and emphasizing “all the counsel of God,” while “keeping back nothing that is profitable” (Acts 20:20, 27).  For Past Auburn Beacons go to: www.aubeacon.com/Bulletins.htm   Anyone can join the mailing list for the Auburn Beacon! Send your request to: larryrouse@aubeacon.com

 Other Articles by Greg Gwin

Did Jesus Use Carnal Methods to Attract Crowds?
I Don't Love Her Anymore
A Problem Area For Preachers
The Mark of the Beast
How to Know What God Wants Me to Do
Role Models
Would You Allow This?