what does the bible say?

A doctrine is merely a point of truth from God’s Word about the purpose and Plan of God.  Doctrines explain various aspects of man’s relationship to God (Hebrews 6:1-2).

How, then, can we know if a certain doctrine is really part of God’s Word? In 2 John 9-11 we read: “Whoever transgresses and does not abide in the doctrine of Christ does not have God.  He who abides in the doctrine of Christ has both the Father and the Son.  If anyone comes to you and does not bring this doctrine, do not receive him into your house nor greet him; for he who greets him shares in his evil deeds.” The true doctrine of Christ is the truth which He reveals through His Word (John 17:17).

Unless every doctrine that we believe fits perfectly and harmoniously into the whole of the doctrine of Christ, as revealed in the Bible, and unless what we have learned only serves to clarify and explain more completely the whole Plan of God – then it is not truth, but error!