There are some folks who have tried to separate the idea of “sound doctrine” from one’s behavioral choices. For example, some have categorized (in their minds) “doctrinal” matters, such as the organization or worship or various practices of the church, to be different from “personal” matters, such as one’s speech or behavior or habits, and they may suggest that “sound doctrine” dictates the “doctrinal” matters of the church but not one’s “personal” matters. They could not be more in error.
Paul lists a number of personal behaviors in the first chapter of First Timothy, including “murderers…manslayers…fornicators…sodomites…kidnappers…liars…perjurers” (1 Tim. 1:9-10). He concluded the list by saying, “and if there is any other thing that is contrary to sound doctrine.” Sinful behaviors are “contrary to sound doctrine.” No wonder Christians are urged to “Hold fast the pattern of sound words” (2 Tim. 1:13). Sound doctrine is not just something for elders of the church to follow—it impacts everything about our lives! Sound (i.e., healthy) doctrine leads to sound (i.e., healthy) living in the eyes of God!