Continually Preach Sound Doctrine

When good Bible preachers “preach the word” (v. 2), and speak “the things which become sound doctrine” (Titus 2:1), most listeners “turn away their ears from the truth!” Because strong preaching deals with the truth about sin (Rom 3:23), and “the works of the flesh” (Gal 5:19); which can prick their hearts (Acts 2:37), and cause them to repent of their wickedness (Acts 8:22). Most people today would only listen to preachers and teachers that sound eloquent and can scratch their “itching ears” (v. 3). Sadly, these hirelings (Jn 10:12), don’t really care about overseeing their flock (Acts 20:28). But are “greedy of filthy lucre” (1 Tim 3:8), or money, fame, and pride.

Therefore, they resort to soft and compromising messages that would only please their crowd while offending God (Mt 15:8). As a Pastor (1 Tim 3:2), I have been given the privilege to confront sin (1 Tim 5:20), challenge the saints (Eph 4:12), and to comfort those who are hurting (1 Thes 5:14). I must always keep in mind that I still need to walk with the people as their example (1 Pet 5:3), and with the heart of a brother in Christ! Although the people of God don’t often respond to our preaching or the messages that we convey (Zec 7:11), we are to continue loving them and praying for their spiritual growth (1 Cor 13:4). We must never compromise our doctrine (1 Tim 3:7).

Even when people turn away their ears, we must keep on preaching, reproving, rebuking, and exhorting! A shallow, soft pedaling of God’s word, just to conform to what people want to hear instead of what they need to hear, will never please God. What matters is what “thus saith the Lord” (Jer 23:16). Because His word must never be compromised, but must be proclaimed in power and authority. It teaches people how to live and how to “grow in grace” (2 Pet 3:18). The Holy Spirit illuminates the minds of listeners so they can trust His word! God bless you!



- Pastor Melito Barrera