What will it be - the gospel or the doctrines?

[Richard OFfill]

These days it is not unusual to hear people saying that in our preaching we shouldn't be emphasizing doctrines. Rather, that we should be preaching the gospel.

Huh? To try to play off the gospel against the doctrines is like arguing which is more important, being born or staying alive!
 
Now let's think about it. In the first place, the word Gospel means "good news”. In the second place, the word doctrine means "teaching." The point is that doctrines are God's explanation to us of what the gospel is all about. To explain the significance of the cross is to explain a doctrine - the doctrine of Salvation. This means then that the grace and forgiveness of God are in and of themselves doctrines. We can't have one without the other!

[Raven]

Simple logic, but tell that to the "One Project" people, or those who have bought into the "Emerging Church" mentality.  They don't get it. 

The Gospel without doctrine is like a new piece of equipment without instructions.

[GraceVessel]

Was thinking about the word nurture, (sometimes I’ll read a poem a “new way” or see a word in a “different light”… )…

Was listening to a sermon today by an long time friend and deeply spiritual speaker… he mentioned how… gossip does more to discourage the gospel and sow discord… than pretty much any other issue.

Once we “assume the motives and reasons behind” why a person says “whatever”… the devil has us at a disadvantage… meaning what gets lost in the “exchange of ideas”… is civility and respect for another persons viewpoint (not agreement but respect that allows them to have the viewpoint and verbalize it).

As a self check, I’ve looked by over some of my posts/statements and have not been happy with a few of them…

Sometimes we dont know the “context” of what a person is posting… where are they in their life, how strong is their faith in Jesus?.. how can I speak and yet give “hope and faith”, and be considerate… when it comes down to it… the gospel is about a renewed heart and forgiveness.

My father is stage IV and will pass from cancer in the near future… I’ve taken alot of deep thought in the last month to ask myself… at the end of the day… does what I say “really matter”… in looking back over my relationship with my dad… I see more of the “evidence”… of his gentle hand, concern, and hope in my being successful in life…

As I continue to view his frailness, I get a fresh perspective and understand more his love and care for me (when I didnt see it as a child). The tables are turned and now I get to honor my father by taking as best care of him as I can.

I lost my first wife to cancer, all I know is that she reflected Christ and was a very positive witness to God. Her goal was to honor God and practice being thankful for what He had done and the opportunity build faith bridges with others.

Another sad thing, I have noticed when talking with my father in the past two weeks, and he has mentioned this several times… about missing the family time of playing cards, going hunting, fishing, going camping, and all the family reunions and social interaction that is (was) part of the social fabric of life.

Sadly this is not the case… for the most part, as in this forum…we dont see people face to face, like Jesus did, personal touch, and the ability to show compassion not only in word, but in direct communication… to a great extent lessens our ability to “connect” and build strong bonds…

I know that today in 2018 I have very few (real friends) and a lot of “acquaintances”. (aka temporary contacts) over the web.

We should cherish each day the personal contact opportunities that God, in His providence provides us…

Ecc 12:11 The words of the wise are as goads, and as nails fastened by the masters of assemblies, which are given from one shepherd.

with kind regards,

[restoretruth]

Hi GV,

So sorry about your Dad! We will pray for you both!

 You are 100% right about nuturing & valuing friendships!  Life is always so busy we sometimes neglect the important things. Hope you are well! Keep in touch!
RT