An Encouraging Word
So then, brothers, stand firm and hold on to the teachings that were passed along to you, either by word of mouth or by a letter from us. (2 Thessalonians 2:15)
Lately, I’ve heard a lot of talk about why the different churches don’t just unite as one. Why do we have to have denomination and synods? Essentially, the question could have been asked “why is doctrine so important?”
Paul answered that throughout his letters, especially his letters to Timothy and to the Thessalonian Christians. Here, in 2 Thessalonians, Paul gives us one reason. God had called the Thessalonian Christians and had sanctified them with his Spirit. They had been given the gospel and had faith. To let go of the Word and teachings that had produced that faith, and through which God had called them and sanctified them would be to give up the good gift that God had given them.
While we realize that God’s only requirement to receive the forgiveness of sins and enter eternal life is faith in Jesus Christ as your savior, we insist on proper doctrine because God tells us to. He says through Paul “stand firm and hold on to the teachings that were passed along to you.” God has given us the gift of his Word. And we thank him for it by hearing it and obeying it. We use it to encourage each other as we are encouraged by it and we do not give it up. Let us continue to stand firm and hold to the teachings that we have received in God’s Word. Amen.
Our song for today is “God's Word Is Our Great Heritage” performed by Koine