Listen to this: Revelation 21:8 "But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death." This completely contradicts the worlds view today that will accept all that people. An in clusiveness of all people that in essence says all men are going to heaven. All men are good and God would never condemn men, because they were different. God's word says something quite different. God considers imorality of all kinds worthy of the lake of fire. I would be completely remiss as a preacher of God's word if I failed to warn of judgement to come. If you are one of those included above then you are in danger of hell fire and should repent before it is too late. Abortion, homosexuality, witchcraft, idolatry and liars must beware of what God has said. There is a judgement to come and it looks to me like it is going to be very soon.

"For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace." Isaiah 9:6

      We spend a lot of time during the Christmas season receiving,  buying and giving gifts to our friends or loved ones. Christmas really about another type of giving 

"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life." John 3:15-17 (in Context).

     God has chosen to send His Son into this world to be our Savior.  Make it a time this Christmas season to remember this very special gift that God has given us. It is really good to give thanks to God not only for this gift, but for all that God has provided for us during this year even things that are material as well as spiritual. Being thankful for the presence of the Lord Jesus personally in your life is by far the greatest blessing that you can ever receive. His name is indeed "Wonderful, Counsellor, The Mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace."  We need to remember just how wonderful and precious that the Lord Jesus is to us.

      Actually it is easy in a years time to just place Jesus either in a manger or on a cross where He can only be an icon. However, Jesus is more then a baby or a man on a cross that is powerless to help us. Jesus in His earthly life set His sites on the cross and from that point it was never far from his thoughts. There was more to the Lord Jesus Christ then just these two events he also grew in stature as a young man. He also spent three and one half years ministering to the multitude of people around him, as well as His own disciples. Jesus proved during those years that he can have an impact on our lives the same way He did on the multitudes and His disciples.  The message  of Christmas is about the One that can make an earth shattering change in your life. The Scriptures tell us that

"He came unto his own, and his own received him not. But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:" John 1:11-12  

     Receiving Christ as your personal savior will be and is the most important decision that you will ever make. God has made it possible for you to be personally related to Him and at the same time he is offering us a pardon for our sins. 

     Christmas is really about Jesus coming to give us salvation through His sacrifice on the cross. The author of the Book of Hebrews says that

"Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God." Hebrews 12:1-3

putting it another way he is the architect and the contractor of our faith. He planned the redemption (either the cost or the act of paying for our freedom from the condemnation of sin) of men and he paid the redemption price (the price that frees us) on the cross. Unlike many of the things that we receive in our daily lives this gift costs us nothing, but cost God His own dear Son. He offers salvation based on His redemptive work as being free and clear. Jesus is offering a gift to us and that gift is eternal life through his work on the cross.

God has made provision for you that can change your life forever. He can change you at a depth that is not possible any other way. When you let Jesus take care of the burden of Sin in your life you will understand these  words from the Bible.

"Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool." Isaiah 1:18

     Will you accept Jesus's gift of a free pardon during this season? Why not do it right now while you are reading this?

(Jud 1:3) Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints.

Jude here was our Lord's brother, probably His youngest brother, although there is no proof of where he stood as a brother. However, this verse stands as one of the most important verse for those of us who are standing for the defence of the gospel in the evil days in which we live. The word defence as you can see is not used in this verse, but the word contend is used here. This word means to struggle as in to struggle unto life or death if necessary. Jude is saying that our stand for the gospel of Christ (His literal death and Resurrection) is one unto death if necessary. Certainly it is a task to be taken very seriously, by any elder in any new testament church. What we are looking at here is the very necessary attribute for an elder at anytime in the New Testament churches history. The rest of these verses come entirely from the book of Philippians. There are five elements that are seen in this book that are attributed unto those who are set to defend the gospel.

Philippians 1:27 Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel;

First of all those who are set to defending the gospel must have a walk that is blameless, this is getting harder to do in these days, but it is not impossible. Paul says that our walk or manner of living as seen elsewhere is to be in keeping with the gospel of Christ. In simple terms the believer is committed to apply the gospel into every area of his life. Christ died for me on the cross, paid the price of my sin guilt, nailed it to His Cross. He died in my place so that He could by His Resurrection apply His righteousness by faith to me forever. I may not be sinless it has been said, but I do sin less then I would have without Christ in my life. Since The Lord Jesus has done this for me then it behoves me to keep this in the back of my mind in everything that I do or say. Paul made it very clear here that he expected to find these believers in unity together for the furtherance of the gospel. The gospel here is more then just the death and Resurrection of our wonderful Lord, but is also all the doctrine that is wrapped up in the gospel. Doctrine is just another word for teaching, it is not a bad word, but a very important idea or concept to be digested. I talked above about the application of the resurrection of Christ to the believer this is called imputation a legal term that means His righteousness has been applied making me not guilty. Paul is saying that we need to strive and struggle together for the body of doctrines that we call the gospel.

Philippians Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ,

Further we are not only to be mindful of the doctrine or beliefs that we believe, but to take it a step further. This is an attitude that we ridicule in Christians these days, but it is taught in the Bible and is a very serious matter. Everything that I have or have had I should count as a loss, because it is just so much wasted clutter in my life. The Lord Jesus Christ has bought me and gave me a new life and in so doing I have lost everything that counts in today's world, that means wealth, that means possessions. That means that new car or house that I want so badly. Paul says that I should count these worldly things as just so much manure. I have a goal in life to win Christ, give Him the glory and point others to the cross.

In the process of living this way we are to point out those who claim to belong to Christ, by there walk. We are to be a brother or sister in Christ and by so doing emulate Christ in our lives. Paul asked them to walk the same walk that he did in Christ, then to pass it on to those who followed them. This could have a life changing effect on this world that is so very sin sick. We are told to be examples to each other of how Christ would have us to life.

The word conversation here means citizenship, he is saying here that our real citizenship as believers is as members of God's kingdom. This is why we also read this: "Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God. (2Co 5:20) , but Paul did not say this just once, but repeated it in another book to another church, just maybe this is a concept we need to get down a lot better these days: "For which I am an ambassador in bonds: that therein I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak. (Eph 6:20) Paul was saying this at the same time that he was chained to a Roman soldier and was testifying before Caesar. How about that he was an ambassador for another country, one that is not on earth, before what was then a leader of a major world power. He carried his testimony to the highest authority of his day. We are afraid to carry it to the neighbors for fear of being seen as being a fanatic. Paul points us to be watchful for the second coming of our Lord, it maters not that 2,000 years have passed we are still to look for the soon return of Christ whether we are fanatics or not. Just exactly why is this so necessary?

Philippians3:21 Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself.

It is because we have been changed spiritually, but we have not been changed physically. We still walk around in earthen vessels that are subject to all of the ware and tare that we put them through. We are so very prone to be proud of our bodies in our youth, but after we get passed a certain age things begin to catch up with us. God has a return policy, after we die He is going to exchange this one for a brand new spiritual body, based on the sinless one that our Lord has. This side of death my body has a proclivity to want to sin no mater how hard I try to stop it. The Lord Jesus can and will subdue even this body, because he has the power to subdue all things unto HIMSELF. I so want to fall on my face before my wonderful Savior and acknowledge how glorious He is.

Philippians 3:18 (For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ:

In this parenthetical statement Paul tells the Philippians about the walk of many, the Syriac version added to this the word otherwise to make it better understood. Indeed he is talking about how different the walk of these enemies of the cross of Christ was. He was very serious about this to the point of tears that there were those whose walk was not in keeping with one who has the Lord Jesus as Savior. He is talking about Jewish people here that were influencing Christians, in the sense of making them to live like Jews. The judiasers wanted Christians to live like they did, but they were the enemies of Christ. They thought nothing of the sinful lives they were living as being under the judgement of God. Those who will contend for the faith, must be on the look out for those whose lives are obvious signals that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ.

Philippians 3:19 Whose end is destruction, whose God is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame, who mind earthly things.)

The rest of the parenthetical statement gives the motives of these enemies of the cross. There end is their own destruction. There appetite is their own undoing, this does not mean that steak you are eating or that fried chicken from last night. What is meant here is an appetite for unspiritual or even anti spiritual pursuits. There is nothing neutral in the pursuit of the Christian life and the struggle with the forces against the gospel of Christ. Even in our day there are many who claim to be good people, but see nothing wrong in glorifying an ungodly pursuit. There needs to be much sole searching by God's people in what they pursue in life. There is the pursuit of riches and worldly goods, the right job, the right spouse and even sometimes the right church. These all add up to nothing when compared to Christ.

Paul says that he was set in place for the very purpose of the defense of the gospel. This concerned not only the attacks from the governmental authorities, but religious authorities as well. There is another area of attack on the church that is also a concern here as well and that is in the area of social influence. We are influenced on how to live as Christians by what society dictates. This should not be even a consideration. Any kind of entertainment that dictates how I should live is an enemy of the cross of Christ. This is as true today as it was in the early church. They just lacked the technology that is a part of our society.

Philippians 1:10 That ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ;

The truth is we need to look for things to approve in our lives and it must be those areas that show the excellency of Christ in our lives. Our sincerity of faith, must be without any kind of reproach. There needs to be nothing in our lives that is offensive. As it is we seem these days to be offending people, by just being a Christian. However, there is no exception in this area, this means to avoid anything that is not excellent in our lives so that we can stand without offense. Standing up in defense of the gospel in our day will certainly get you accused of all kinds of things. What is being said here is to be sure that the things in your life are completely above reproach.

Philippians 1:7 Even as it is meet for me to think this of you all, because I have you in my heart; inasmuch as both in my bonds, and in the defence and confirmation of the gospel, ye all are partakers of my grace

The apostle Paul's life was filled up with the care for the churches and the defense of the gospel. Paul took the care of all the churches with him every where he went. This was seen in his prayer life and in his letters to churches. It is seen in the care he took in the nurturing of elders and deacons. There is the mention of his bonds, remember while writing this letter he was chained to a Roman soldier. His concern was in both the defense of the Christian faith and in its confirmation in the changed lives of believers.

Philippians 3:9 And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith:

Paul said that one of the most important issues in his own life was to be found in Christ as one who was not depending on his own righteousness, but on the righteousness of faith in Christ. His own personal righteousness was found in a set of rules or laws based on the law of Moses. Real righteousness is only found by faith in the gospel of Christ. Those such as Paul who was defender of the gospel needs to know beyond a shaddow of doubt that his personal righteousness is not found in adherence to the Old Testament law. What needed to be his sole support was the righteousness of Christ by faith.

Php 3:10 That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death;

The power in Paul's life that lead him to be the first defender of the faith, was in knowing Christ personally and a personal experience with the power of the Ressurection of Christ. There is another area that knowing Christ will lead a Paul or any of us and that is into the fellowship that goes with those who have been put thru suffering for the sake of the gospel. Paul's life and testimony brought him to the place that he would go even as far as dying for his faith in Christ, this is what is meant by being made conformable unto his death, it goes one step further and that is having put to death the things that do not lead to a godly life.

(moderation)Php 4:5 Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand.
Php 4:8 Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

(judgement day) Php 2:10 That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth;
Php 2:11 And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Maybe it is not possible to prove beyond a shadow of doubt that baptists can trace there heritage back to the New Testament church. However, I still believe that they have more on their side then the Roman Catholic Church is willing to admit. The usual argument in defense of Roman Catholicism of having apostolic origin is from there own authorities. However, there are authorities that were Roman Catholic that admited that the Waldenses were of apostolic origin as well. If that be the case, then which of these is correct and if so to what degree are they of apostolic origin. Besides there is one issue that can never be forgiven the papacy and that is the murder of innocent protestants and baptists. One such example is what the Papacy did to the protestants of Paris and another is what they did to they did the the Waldenses in northern Italy. I am pasting in the later here, but you can read it in its entire context at the link. Such events as these are unforgiveable in any court of the land, but Rome has yet to really repent in sack cloth and ashes over this. Even if she were to do this it is not enough, the words of Paul is to come out from them and be ye seperate says the Lord. There is no way that this Baptist preacher can even consider forgiveness of them as a church, but if you are a Roman Catholic and read this I strongly urge you to flee Rome before the judgement day comes.

It is not my purpose to intend to be exhuastive with this point, but a definition of the word catholic is absolutely necessary. Point of clarification is also in order, you can be catholic without being Catholic, with the capitol "C" it almost always refers to the Roman Catholic Church. The real question among protestants is not if they are catholic, but is the Roman Catholic Church Christian? I have already dealt with that question other places.

The word general is used in the scriptures, but not in the text only in the titles and titles were added after the completion of the canon or rule of scripture. Those books considered to be general epistles are: James, 1 and 2 Peter and Jude.

The greek word used for general is only used one time and that is in the book of Hebrews: "To the general assembly and church of the firstborn, which are written in heaven, and to God the Judge of all, and to the spirits of just men made perfect, " (Heb 12:23). The book of Hebrews is not a general epistle, but is written specifically for Jewish people who were living outside of Israel. It is not a general epistle, but it is the only case where the greek word which would have been for catholic is used. So that leaves only the four books listed above that are general epistles.

Why is this important? The Word of God is the source for all of our information about the New Testament church's faith and practices. No where in scripture is the doctrine used that makes Christians who are members of Baptist churches in anyway to be considered catholic. The only possible way this word could be applied is that Christians who are Baptists are of the same faith whatever Baptist church they belong to.

All real Christians, the born again variety are considred as being of one faith. This does not mean that all churches that would use the word "catholic" are of the same faith, unless they really are.

The application of the word "catholic" was not used in reference to all supposed Christians until the Council of Trent. This word was used by catholics to beat over the heads of non catholics in the sence of saying you do not belong to the true church. This resulted in the murder of hundreds of thousands of Christians who were not Roman Catholics by the emissaries of Rome.

Some of the many possible definitions for the word "catholic" are (1) broad or wide-ranging in tastes, interests, or the like; having sympathies with all; broad-minded; liberal.(2) universal in extent; involving all; of interests to all (3) pertaining to the whole Christian body or church.

This last definition is the one which causes the most confusion, is the Roman Catholic Church represenative of the whole of the Christian church or just their communion. I maintain that it is just represenative of their communion. Using communion in the sence of fellowship or of the same mind. I do not maintain that the Roman Catholic church is a Christian fellowship and it never has been a Christian fellowship. I also maintain there are people inside of the Roman Catholic church, whom God is calling to come out of her.

"The walls between old allies on either side of the Atlantic cannot stand. The
walls between the countries with the most and those with the least cannot stand.
The walls between races and tribes; natives and immigrants; Christian and
Muslim and Jew cannot stand. These now are the walls we must tear down."

I suggest to you that walls wrather then divide people actually provide security. Some walls should never be torn down, because they help to confine the blurring of ideas, thoughts and concepts. The Christian faith for instance has as its root a doctrinal concept that does not support any other view point. If you take the doctrine of scripture concerning the person and work of the Lord Jesus Christ seriously then there is no room for anything else. Hence, we talk about being inclusive or exclusive. Does the Christian faith include the possiability that other religions might be right? The world spirit of these days is inclusive, that is it includes all as being equil.

Wikepedia defines religious pluralism as being: "As the name of the worldview according to which one's religion is not the sole and exclusive source of truth, and thus that at least some truths and true values exist in other religions." This suggests a mutually exclusive world view of all those who hold to relgious pluralism. The Christian viewpoint on the otherhand is built on the supposition that the scriptures themselves are the only rule for faith and practice. The Christian world view has been all but abandoned by many Bible believing Christians. Once you have abandoned the Word of God as being, both infallible and authoritative, then you are set on a course that leads to pluralism. The scriptures are propositional and revelational in nature, they come from God and specifically spells out such things as who is going to heaven and who is not. They spell out what it takes to find favor with God. Evangelism which is the winning of people to the Christian faith is impossible with out the doctrine of salvation as taught in God's Word the Bible.

"The walls between old allies on either side of the Atlantic cannot stand. The
walls between the countries with the most and those with the least cannot stand.
The walls between races and tribes; natives and immigrants; Christian and
Muslim and Jew cannot stand. These now are the walls we must tear down."

I suggest to you that walls wrather then divide people actually provide security. Some walls should never be torn down, because they help to confine the blurring of ideas, thoughts and concepts. The Christian faith for instance has as its root a doctrinal concept that does not support any other view point. If you take the doctrine of scripture concerning the person and work of the Lord Jesus Christ seriously then there is no room for anything else. Hence, we talk about being inclusive or exclusive. Does the Christian faith include the possiability that other religions might be right? The world spirit of these days is inclusive, that is it includes all as being equil.

Wikepedia defines religious pluralism as being: "As the name of the worldview according to which one's religion is not the sole and exclusive source of truth, and thus that at least some truths and true values exist in other religions." This suggests a mutually exclusive world view of all those who hold to relgious pluralism. The Christian viewpoint on the otherhand is built on the supposition that the scriptures themselves are the only rule for faith and practice. The Christian world view has been all but abandoned by many Bible believing Christians. Once you have abandoned the Word of God as being, both infallible and authoritative, then you are set on a course that leads to pluralism. The scriptures are propositional and revelational in nature, they come from God and specifically spells out such things as who is going to heaven and who is not. They spell out what it takes to find favor with God. Evangelism which is the winning of people to the Christian faith is impossible with out the doctrine of salvation as taught in God's Word the Bible.

There are two things to notice from this word study on doctrine and the believer. First is that when doctrine as applied to a believer is spoken of it is always in singular number. Real sound Bible teaching is never endless chains of unconnected teaching, but is a1ways one single line of doctrine connected to Our Savior it must be and always should be Christ centered.In all cases where the plural is used it is in reference to the doctrines of men. The believer is invoked to never follow the teachings of men, but always to place his trust in God's unchanging truth.

In six instances the singular is used, but does not refer to the truth of God, those instances are all found in Revelation 2. Again in I Corinthians 14:26 the use of the word doctrine is non specific used in the sense of a teaching not related to being Christ centered. It is also used in Ephesians 4:14 speaking of every wind of doctrine in the sense of the wind not always going in a straight direction. This again was doctrine not specifically related to being Christ centered.

Seventeen times this word is used in the Pastoral Epistles I and II Timothy and Titus, in all instances this is referring to sound teaching that has Christ at its center. The thing that is interesting here is that it is in these 3 books and used to the point of how the Pastor was supposed to function. He is not to be teaching his own ideas, but only the form of sound doctrine that has Christ at the center. We have lost a lot when our Pastors stop teaching sound doctrine and the result is churches that have no idea about the truth of God. What about what God says to our Pastors, when are they going to start obeying God? How can we have churches that are in obedience, when the man behind the pulpit is not right with God? If you are not doing what it says here, then it is impossible for you to be right with God.

Read through these verses and then come back to II Timothy 3:16. This is the heart of this study on doctrine; Paul through inspiration tells us that the Word of God is profitable for doctrine. Sound teaching can only be found in God's Word anything else is subject to error and is not Christ centered. Sound doctrine does not tickle the ears of the congregation, but warns them of danger. The Godly pastor will always be quick to teaching and expounding the Word of Life while always pointing us to Christ.

1. Acts 2:42
And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.
Acts 2:41-43 (in Context) Acts 2 (Whole Chapter)

The early believers meeting in Jerusalem stuck to a spiritual regimen consisting of the teachings of the apostles, fellowship and spent time together around the table. They spent there time in prayer and the results of being steadfast in God's Word, because that is what the apostles doctrine was, a revival that has not been duplicated ever. 3,000 decisions for Christ in one day a message that was so thoroughly spread around that "the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved." Acts 2:47 They had a revival and it was of such an impact that it came to the attention of the religious leaders.

2. Acts 5:28
Saying, Did not we straitly command you that ye should not teach in this name? and, behold, ye have filled Jerusalem with your doctrine, and intend to bring this man's blood upon us.
Acts 5:27-29 (in Context) Acts 5 (Whole Chapter)

The doctrine was so thoroughly spread that it had filled the city of Jerusalem. It had become so thoroughly spread that it was heard on every street corner. It was heard at every house and at every Inn. Later it would be said that this thing had not happened in secret. This is not brand new information, this is real and it needs to be spread about America, that the Bible is true and trustworthy. This also brings up another issue, the Jews of Jesus day were only corporately responsible for the crucifixion. The real responsible parties were the leaders of the Sanhedrin the ruling counsel of the Jews. Additionally the Roman government at Jerusalem was also responsible. What man meant for evil, God meant for good.

3. Acts 13:12
Then the deputy, when he saw what was done, believed, being astonished at the doctrine of the Lord.
Acts 13:11-13 (in Context) Acts 13 (Whole Chapter)

This was a resident representative of the Roman government. The message of the gospel had become so widely spread, that it had reached outside of the confines of the land of Judea and Galilee. This was prophesized by our Lord that the gospel message would go beyond their immediate borders. Sergius Paulus had seen the miracle performed by Paul (He had struck Bar-Jesus blind to the point he was looking for healing) and was "astonished at the Doctrine of the Lord".

4. Acts 17:19
And they took him, and brought him unto Areopagus, saying, May we know what this new doctrine, whereof thou speakest, is?
Acts 17:18-20 (in Context) Acts 17 (Whole Chapter)

5. Romans 6:17
But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you.
Romans 6:16-18 (in Context) Romans 6 (Whole Chapter)

6. Romans 16:17
Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them.
Romans 16:16-18 (in Context) Romans 16 (Whole Chapter)

7. 1 Corinthians 14:6
Now, brethren, if I come unto you speaking with tongues, what shall I profit you, except I shall speak to you either by revelation, or by knowledge, or by prophesying, or by doctrine?
1 Corinthians 14:5-7 (in Context) 1 Corinthians 14 (Whole Chapter)

8. 1 Corinthians 14:26
How is it then, brethren? when ye come together, every one of you hath a psalm, hath a doctrine, hath a tongue, hath a revelation, hath an interpretation. Let all things be done unto edifying.
1 Corinthians 14:25-27 (in Context) 1 Corinthians 14 (Whole Chapter)

9. Ephesians 4:14
That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;
Ephesians 4:13-15 (in Context) Ephesians 4 (Whole Chapter)

10. Colossians 2:22
Which all are to perish with the using;) after the commandments and doctrines of men?
Colossians 2:21-23 (in Context) Colossians 2 (Whole Chapter)

11. 1 Timothy 1:3
As I besought thee to abide still at Ephesus, when I went into Macedonia, that thou mightest charge some that they teach no other doctrine,
1 Timothy 1:2-4 (in Context) 1 Timothy 1 (Whole Chapter)

12. 1 Timothy 1:10
For whoremongers, for them that defile themselves with mankind, for menstealers, for liars, for perjured persons, and if there be any other thing that is contrary to sound doctrine;
1 Timothy 1:9-11 (in Context) 1 Timothy 1 (Whole Chapter)

13. 1 Timothy 4:1
Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils;
1 Timothy 4:1-3 (in Context) 1 Timothy 4 (Whole Chapter)

14. 1 Timothy 4:6
If thou put the brethren in remembrance of these things, thou shalt be a good minister of Jesus Christ, nourished up in the words of faith and of good doctrine, whereunto thou hast attained.
1 Timothy 4:5-7 (in Context) 1 Timothy 4 (Whole Chapter)

15. 1 Timothy 4:13
Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine.
1 Timothy 4:12-14 (in Context) 1 Timothy 4 (Whole Chapter)

16. 1 Timothy 4:16
Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.
1 Timothy 4:15-16 (in Context) 1 Timothy 4 (Whole Chapter)

17. 1 Timothy 5:17
Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine.
1 Timothy 5:16-18 (in Context) 1 Timothy 5 (Whole Chapter)

18. 1 Timothy 6:1
Let as many servants as are under the yoke count their own masters worthy of all honour, that the name of God and his doctrine be not blasphemed.
1 Timothy 6:1-3 (in Context) 1 Timothy 6 (Whole Chapter)

19. 1 Timothy 6:3
If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness;
1 Timothy 6:2-4 (in Context) 1 Timothy 6 (Whole Chapter)

20. 2 Timothy 3:10
But thou hast fully known my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, charity, patience,
2 Timothy 3:9-11 (in Context) 2 Timothy 3 (Whole Chapter)

21. 2 Timothy 3:16
All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
2 Timothy 3:15-17 (in Context) 2 Timothy 3 (Whole Chapter)

22. 2 Timothy 4:2
Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long suffering and doctrine.
2 Timothy 4:1-3 (in Context) 2 Timothy 4 (Whole Chapter)

23. 2 Timothy 4:3
For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;
2 Timothy 4:2-4 (in Context) 2 Timothy 4 (Whole Chapter)

24. Titus 1:9
Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers.
Titus 1:8-10 (in Context) Titus 1 (Whole Chapter)

25. Titus 2:1
But speak thou the things which become sound doctrine:
Titus 2:1-3 (in Context) Titus 2 (Whole Chapter)

26. Titus 2:7
In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine shewing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity,
Titus 2:6-8 (in Context) Titus 2 (Whole Chapter)

27. Titus 2:10
Not purloining, but shewing all good fidelity; that they may adorn the doctrine of God our Saviour in all things.
Titus 2:9-11 (in Context) Titus 2 (Whole Chapter)

28. Hebrews 6:1
Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God,
Hebrews 6:1-3 (in Context) Hebrews 6 (Whole Chapter)

29. Hebrews 6:2
Of the doctrine of baptisms, and of laying on of hands, and of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment.
Hebrews 6:1-3 (in Context) Hebrews 6 (Whole Chapter)

30. Hebrews 13:9
Be not carried about with divers and strange doctrines. For it is a good thing that the heart be established with grace; not with meats, which have not profited them that have been occupied therein.
Hebrews 13:8-10 (in Context) Hebrews 13 (Whole Chapter)

31. 2 John 1:9
Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son.
2 John 1:8-10 (in Context) 2 John 1 (Whole Chapter)

32. 2 John 1:10
If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed:
2 John 1:9-11 (in Context) 2 John 1 (Whole Chapter)

33. Revelation 2:14
But I have a few things against thee, because thou hast there them that hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balac to cast a stumblingblock before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed unto idols, and to commit fornication.
Revelation 2:13-15 (in Context) Revelation 2 (Whole Chapter)

34. Revelation 2:15
So hast thou also them that hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitanes, which thing I hate.
Revelation 2:14-16 (in Context) Revelation 2 (Whole Chapter)

35. Revelation 2:24
But unto you I say, and unto the rest in Thyatira, as many as have not this doctrine, and which have not known the depths of Satan, as they speak; I will put upon you none other burden.
Revelation 2:23-25 (in Context) Revelation 2 (Whole Chapter)

These are the issues that seem to bother the majority of so called church attendees these days. Most of They are held in common, by anyone who is really a Christian, this is the common faith that unites believers:

The Inerrant and authoritative Holy Scriptures: The first 1/3 of the fundamentals was taken up with the question of the trustworthiness of the Scriptures as the inerrant Word of God. II Timothy 3:16 as well as
11 Peter 1 are very supportive of this view of scripture.

The literal interpretation of those Scriptures: The same section in the fundamentals mentioned above is also testimony to how scripture is used in both the Old Testament as well as the New Testament. The major use of the Old Testament by Christ and the Apostles and how they used the Old Testament is testimony to its literalness. Check out how many times the Old Testament is quoted in the New Testament and understood to be literal.

The trustworthiness of the historical record in the book of Genesis (Creation): The book of Genesis is reliable for its testimony both for creation and for its historical content. The book of Genesis is primary evidence, because it not only is the truth, but came from the Hand of God. Christ quoted from the book of Genesis as well as the apostles did.

Literal second coming of Christ: Although these last three are not specifically mentioned in the Fundamentals they are by nature alluded to. The first one is very suggestive that there is a hell to shun and a heaven to gain.

**The Pre-tribulation Return of Christ: I am going to hold off on this one for a later consideration of it in more detail then I want to include here.

**The Pre-millennial Return of Christ: I am going to hold off on this one for a later consideration of it in more detail then I want to include here.

The points with ** are not essential for salvation, but are suggestive of belief in the rest of the scriptures. Those who are Post-Mill, A-Mill or historical Pre-Mill are not considered by me as being unsaved, but just mistaken. Especially those who held to these positions before the 1800's, I believe in the progressive nature of illumination concerning the understanding of the interpretation of scripture. That is since the completion of the cannon of Scripture the interpretation of the Bible has been understood better with each passing generation.

The Lord Jesus confronted the Pharisee's and when He did they had this question to ask Him, in hopes that they could trip him.

"Master, which is the great commandment in the law? Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets." (Matt 22:36--40)

First where did Jesus get this from: " And thou shalt love the LORD thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might."Deuteronomy 6:4-6

"Love ye therefore the stranger: for ye were strangers in the land of Egypt."
Deuteronomy 10:18-20
What has gotten my attention is how simple this is and yet so profound. How easy it is, yet how so very hard it is. It is easy to love God, but is it? I don't know about you, but with me the harder I try the more illusive it becomes. This is not to say that the Holy Spirit can't bring this about in our lives, but that it is a daily exercise. To me the hard part is not the first of these, even as difficult as that can some times be knowing that we are prone to wander. The hard part is the second commandment. How do I love my neighbor when I do not even know my neighbor? How do I love my neighbor on the other side of the world, who I might even say I hate? There are those in this world who are almost impossible to love. Impossible or not we are still commanded to love our neighbor even if our neighbor happens to be an enemy. The commandment in Galatians 6:10 "As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith." This is what got to me how do I love my enemies when they are not very lovely? How do I love the Muslim, when they say and do so many terrible things? I found that our Lord was very specific with the Pharisee in that he corrected their error. They said to love their neighbor, but hate their enemy. Jesus said yes love your neighbor, but also love your enemy. Jesus took time to answer the serious, real questions of a Pharisee by the name of Nicodemus. You know this can actually be life changing. This is called active obedience to Christ and cannot be accomplished without the work of the Holy Spirit.