How can you discern if a church's teachings are biblically sound?

Discerning whether a church's teachings are biblically sound is a crucial and often challenging task for any believer. The Bible itself emphasizes the importance of sound doctrine and warns against false teachings. In 2 Timothy 4:3-4, Paul writes, "For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths." This passage highlights the necessity of vigilance and discernment in evaluating church teachings.

To begin, it is essential to understand that the Bible is the ultimate authority for Christians. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 states, "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work." Therefore, the primary measure of a church's teachings should be their alignment with Scripture. Here are several steps to help you discern whether a church's teachings are biblically sound:

Study the Bible Regularly

The first and most important step is to immerse yourself in the Word of God. Regular, prayerful study of the Bible helps you become familiar with its teachings and principles. Psalm 119:105 says, "Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path." By knowing Scripture well, you can more easily recognize when a teaching deviates from biblical truth. Additionally, Acts 17:11 commends the Bereans for examining the Scriptures daily to verify Paul's teachings, setting an example for all believers.

Contextual Understanding

When evaluating church teachings, it is important to consider the context of the biblical passages being referenced. Misinterpretations often arise from taking verses out of context. Understanding the historical, cultural, and literary context of a passage can provide clarity and prevent misapplication. For instance, Philippians 4:13 ("I can do all this through him who gives me strength") is often quoted out of context to suggest that Christians can achieve any personal goal, whereas the broader context reveals Paul speaking about contentment in all circumstances.

The Whole Counsel of God

Sound doctrine takes into account the entirety of Scripture. Isolated verses should not be used to build doctrines without considering the full scope of biblical teaching. For example, the doctrine of the Trinity is derived from a comprehensive understanding of Scripture, even though the term "Trinity" is not found in the Bible. The consistent teaching of one God in three persons—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—is evident throughout the Bible (e.g., Matthew 28:19, 2 Corinthians 13:14).

The Fruit of the Spirit

Jesus taught that we can recognize false prophets by their fruits (Matthew 7:15-20). A church that teaches biblically sound doctrine will typically exhibit the fruit of the Spirit as described in Galatians 5:22-23: love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. If a church's teachings lead to division, pride, or other works of the flesh (Galatians 5:19-21), it is a sign that something may be amiss.

Historical Orthodoxy

While Scripture is the ultimate authority, historical orthodoxy can also serve as a helpful guide. The early church councils and creeds, such as the Nicene Creed and the Apostles' Creed, were formulated to address heresies and define core Christian beliefs. A church that aligns with these historical affirmations of faith is more likely to be teaching sound doctrine. However, it is important to remain cautious and not place tradition above Scripture (Mark 7:8-9).

The Role of the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit plays a vital role in guiding believers into all truth (John 16:13). Praying for the Holy Spirit's discernment is crucial when evaluating church teachings. The Spirit can provide insight and conviction when something is not in line with God's Word. It is also beneficial to seek the counsel of mature, Spirit-filled Christians who can provide wisdom and perspective.

The Gospel Message

Central to discerning sound doctrine is the church's teaching on the gospel. Paul emphasizes the importance of the true gospel in Galatians 1:8-9, warning against any other gospel. A biblically sound church will clearly and consistently teach that salvation is by grace through faith in Jesus Christ alone (Ephesians 2:8-9). Any teaching that adds to or detracts from this core message should be questioned.

Accountability and Transparency

A church that is committed to biblical truth will welcome questions and be transparent about its teachings. Leaders should be willing to explain and defend their teachings with Scripture. Acts 20:28-30 warns church leaders to be vigilant and protect the flock from false teachings. A church that is accountable to its members and open to correction is more likely to uphold sound doctrine.

Personal and Communal Discernment

Discerning sound doctrine is not only an individual responsibility but also a communal one. Engaging in Bible study groups, discussions, and seeking input from trusted Christian friends can provide additional perspectives and insights. Proverbs 27:17 states, "As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another." The collective wisdom of the body of Christ can be invaluable in discerning truth.

Watch for Red Flags

Certain red flags can indicate problematic teachings. These may include an overemphasis on prosperity and material blessings (the prosperity gospel), legalism that adds human traditions to God's commands, teachings that deny the deity of Christ or the Trinity, and any doctrine that leads to spiritual abuse or manipulation. Being aware of these red flags can help you remain vigilant.

Conclusion

Discerning whether a church's teachings are biblically sound requires a combination of personal commitment to Scripture, reliance on the Holy Spirit, and engagement with the broader Christian community. By studying the Bible, understanding its context, seeking the whole counsel of God, and observing the fruit of the Spirit, you can better evaluate the teachings you encounter. Historical orthodoxy, the centrality of the gospel, accountability, and communal discernment all play vital roles in this process. Ultimately, staying rooted in God's Word and seeking His guidance will help you navigate the complexities of church teachings and remain faithful to biblical truth.