Monday, June 25, 2007

Enduring Sound Doctrine

It is right there in front of our faces. The Bible clearly states - "For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, because they have itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teachers" (2 Tim. 4:3). This very important word "endure" needs a true definition. What exactly is Paul talking about?
It occurs to me that many folks are "enduring" sound doctrine...much like a sheep endures being shorn or cattle endure the branding iron. One definition of the word means - "to bear or tolerate." It is there and nothing can be done about it so you have to put up with it. Many hold this attitude toward the commandments given by God in areas of worship and personal conduct. They endure singing without the instrument. They endure not getting to drink alcohol. They endure the narrow road, they just don't like it very much.
That is not what Paul meant when he discussed endurance. This word, in the Greek text, anecho, means "to hold up." The idea behind "enduring sound doctrine" is not putting up with it, but holding it in such high regard and recognizing its holiness so as to live life by the very fiber of its teachings.
The Psalms declare the exalted position of God's word - "And I will delight myself in Your commandments, which I love. My hands also I will lift up to Your commandments, which I love, and I will meditate on Your statutes" (Ps. 119:47-48).
Paul said correctly, that the time would come when some would not endure sound doctrine. There are certainly some who openly oppose the Bible, but sadly there are also many in the Christian system that often don't love it like they should.
“As for that in the good soil, they are those who, hearing the word, hold it fast in an honest and good heart, and bear fruit with patience" (Luke 8:15) ESV.

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