A Pastor’s Focus - Doctrine

Passage: 1 Timothy 1
Key Verse: "As I besought thee to abide still at Ephesus, when I went into Macedonia, that thou mightest charge some that they teach no other doctrine." (1 Timothy 1:3)

Introduction: Doctrine Determines Your Destiny

What we believe shapes how we live. Sound doctrine anchors our faith, steers our decisions, and secures our eternal future. In his letter to Timothy, the Apostle Paul emphasizes the vital role of doctrine in ministry and Christian living. As pastors and believers, we must prioritize the truth of God’s Word, ensuring it is taught, guarded, and applied in every area of life.

It Starts with Christ

"Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the commandment of God our Saviour, and Lord Jesus Christ, which is our hope; unto Timothy, my own son in the faith: Grace, mercy, and peace, from God our Father and Jesus Christ our Lord." (1 Timothy 1:1-2)

From the very beginning of his letter, Paul points to Christ. Jesus is the foundation of our faith, the focus of sound doctrine, and the source of grace, mercy, and peace. Throughout 1 Timothy, Christ remains the emphasis. Doctrine is not merely about knowledge—it is about knowing Christ and making Him known.

Timothy’s Mission

"As I besought thee to abide still at Ephesus, when I went into Macedonia, that thou mightest charge some that they teach no other doctrine." (1 Timothy 1:3)

Paul left Timothy with a clear mission: to ensure that no false doctrines infiltrated the church at Ephesus. The word “charge” here means to command or order with authority. Pastors and leaders today carry the same responsibility to defend the purity of the gospel and uphold the truth of Scripture in their ministries.

The Attacks on Doctrine

"Neither give heed to fables and endless genealogies, which minister questions, rather than godly edifying which is in faith: so do." (1 Timothy 1:4)

False doctrines, myths, and speculations were rampant in Timothy’s time, creating confusion and division. Paul reminds Timothy that good doctrine does not sow doubt but builds faith and confidence in God. He also warns of the dangers of misusing the law:

"But we know that the law is good, if a man use it lawfully." (1 Timothy 1:8)

When applied correctly, sound doctrine edifies and leads to godliness, but when distorted, it can mislead and harm.

The Enabling by Christ

"And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who hath enabled me, for that he counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry." (1 Timothy 1:12)

Paul credits Christ for enabling him to serve in ministry despite his past. This is a reminder that the power to uphold and teach sound doctrine does not come from our abilities but from God’s grace. Paul’s testimony of transformation points to the mercy of God:

"This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief." (1 Timothy 1:15)

Doctrine rooted in the gospel of grace highlights Christ’s redemptive work and brings glory to God.

Fight or Fall

"This charge I commit unto thee, son Timothy, according to the prophecies which went before on thee, that thou by them mightest war a good warfare; holding faith, and a good conscience; which some having put away concerning faith have made shipwreck." (1 Timothy 1:18-19)

Paul likens the defense of doctrine to warfare. Failure to guard the truth leads to spiritual shipwreck, as seen in the lives of Hymenaeus and Alexander:

"Whom I have delivered unto Satan, that they may learn not to blaspheme." (1 Timothy 1:20)

The stakes are high. Pastors and believers must actively protect and fight for sound doctrine to avoid devastating consequences.

Application: Double Down on Your Doctrine

Paul’s charge to Timothy is clear: doctrine matters. In a world filled with distractions and distortions, we must double down on our doctrine by:

• Studying the Word: Know what the Bible teaches and why it matters.

• Guarding the Truth: Protect the gospel from compromise or corruption.

• Living It Out: Apply sound doctrine in daily life to reflect Christ’s character.

Doctrine determines your destiny. Let us take Paul’s charge seriously, staying rooted in Christ and steadfast in the truth of God’s Word.