"The Need for Sound Biblical Doctrine" (Titus 1:5-9)

I have spoken with many people who've asked why I put so much emphasis on sound doctrine. One person inferred that my teaching should be less doctrinal and more practical! But is there a difference between doctrinal and practical truth? Let me state for the record, doctrine is practical! In fact, there's absolutely nothing in the Christian belief that's more practical than sound, wholesome doctrine. The pastor/elder/bishop/overseer who turns aside from the teaching and preaching of sound doctrine has given up the primary responsibility of a pastor. Let me explain. We'll examine the words of apostle Paul to his beloved disciple named Titus. Titus 1:5-9 gives us the qualifications according to God's standards, of the men who are put in the position of oversight in God's church. Let me say, that as an elder, I find these high biblical standards to be inspiring as well as motivating! They've helped me to really appreciate the tremendous care and concern God has for His church. As I review these standards, I'm put in remembrance of the type of godly example that I as well as other church leaders are to demonstrate for the church, so that we ALL live as God desires. I teach these standards because they provide us a valid reason to pray for one another, which brings glory to Jesus, the head of the church! The first set of qualifications are those of the elder's family life. Paul says, "If any man is above reproach, the husband of one wife, having children who believe, not accused of dissipation or rebellion" (v. 6). The phrase "above reproach" doesn't refer to sinless perfection or none would qualify! What it means is "having a personal life that's beyond legitimate accusation!" Family qualifications are mentioned because what the elder is at home is what he truly is. The next qualifications refer to the elder's character, (v. 7-8). These two sets of qualifications are crucial for establishing the context for the third qualification. However, the significance of this third qualification is tied to the responsibility of sound doctrine (v. 9). People are not saved by being impressed with the elder's family! People are not saved by the elder's personal character! People are saved by the teaching of sound doctrine! In other words, it's the faithful exercise of sound doctrine that's backed by the other two that lead people to eternal life! Be encouraged. We'll continue in Part Two!