1 Timothy 4:16
Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers.
There are two essential qualities for those who lead God’s people: a knowledge of the truth of the gospel and a lifestyle that illustrates the power of the gospel. One does not have to have a college or seminary degree but must know doctrine. Doctrine is basically how we understand God’s revelation and explain it to others. If the way we live does not match what we say, what we say will invalidate our message. People will look at us to confirm what they hear from us. The outcome for all is salvation. We could look at the reverse of this as well. If our teaching or lifestyle are inconsistent with the gospel, then we are in danger of being a roadblock to the salvation of others and ourselves.
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