1. Doctrine - Schmoctrine

Word Warrior Studies - # 1 Doctrine.

I don't want to hear it.

This is not an uncommon sentiment. People sometimes choose a "non-denominational" congregation with the assumption they won't have to hear "doctrine" preached.

What is doctrine exactly? Why should you care? An examination of dictionaries and resources reveals that doctrine is.

The word comes from the Latin doctor for “teacher"so think of doctrine as a codification of teachings, beliefs, instructions, principles or positions, held and advocated by a branch of education/knowledge, religious/Christian organization, political/government entity, the military, and the law/justice/court system, among others.. (Google definitions, Wikipedia, Merriam-Webster Dictionary, Dictionary.com, Cambridge English Dictionary, etc. define essence of teachings of a given branch of knowledge or in a belief system.)

For instance, many doctrines have become fairly recognizable.Our government was founded on a doctrine of equality for all people.Traditional psychiatrists still follow the doctrines of Sigmund Freud. U.S. presidents have given their names to doctrines as well: In 1823 the Monroe Doctrine stated that the United States would oppose European influence in the Americas, and in 1947 the Truman Doctrine held that America would support free countries against enemies outside and inside.

The dragon-myth introduced the earliest doctrine or systematic theory of astronomy and meteorology. Senator Rand Paul advocates the third party doctrine which says the First Amendment’s guarantee of freedom of religion shields churches and their operations from the government’s reach.

Although we usually think of doctrines originating from various groups, many have begun with individuals. Joseph Smith conceived a doctrine which led to the founding of the Mormon Church. Mary Baker Eddy's teachings led to the Christian Science religion, and the writings and teachings of Ellen White became the accepted doctrine of the Seventh Day Adventists.

So the non-denominational church teaches and preaches the doctrine of non-denominational-ism along with whatever other teachings/doctrines they advocate.

If you're alive, you're constantly exposed to "doctrine." You can't escape it, nor can you escape its impact on your life to some degree (perhaps minimum; perhaps not) in some form or fashion.

Unfortunately, too many people have no interest in the doctrine/teachings which will have the greatest, eternal impact, either joyous or despair and destruction, on every human life - the doctrines of God and his Son, the Lord Jesus Christ.

The Bible mentions "doctrine" fifty-two times, so it is obviously teachings/doctrines God wants us to understand. Your eternal destination depends on your understanding of what God wants you to know. What is it you must know if you have a care at all about your safety, comfort, and joy in the eternal ages? Stay tuned for the next doctrine blog to learn more.