Day 21: Every Doctrine Builds the Church’s Health

Scripture Reading:

“But speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in all aspects into Him who is the head, that is Christ.” – Ephesians 4:15, LSB

Doctrine is not a lifeless subject for scholars alone—it is the daily bread of the church. Every teaching of Scripture has a purpose, and together they build the health and holiness of Christ’s body.

Paul reminds the Ephesians that growth comes “by speaking the truth in love” (Eph. 4:15). The church does not mature through worldly wisdom, clever programs, or human innovation, but through the steady nourishment of sound doctrine. Truth builds us up into Christ, our Head.

Consider how this works. The doctrine of God humbles us before His majesty. The doctrine of Christ anchors us in His saving work. The doctrine of salvation reminds us we are saved by grace alone. The doctrine of the church shows us we belong to one another. Each truth strengthens a different part of the body, but together they produce a healthy, vibrant church.

John Calvin said, “Doctrine is not an affair of the tongue, but of the life” (Institutes, 3.6.4). Sound doctrine always bears fruit. It shapes how we live, love, worship, and serve. Louis Berkhof added, “True doctrine is the foundation of true piety” (Systematic Theology, p. 25). Without truth, piety withers; with truth, holiness blossoms.

History confirms this. When the church has been faithful to doctrine, she has flourished. When she has despised doctrine, she has declined. The Reformers knew that every doctrine mattered—Scripture’s authority, Christ’s sufficiency, grace alone, faith alone. Together, these truths restored the church’s health and mission.

Beloved, the church’s strength today depends on the same thing: sound doctrine. Every teaching of God’s Word contributes to her health, unity, and mission. To neglect doctrine is to starve the body; to embrace it is to nourish her life.

Personal Reflection

1. How does Ephesians 4:15 show the connection between doctrine and spiritual growth?

2. Why is it dangerous to think of some doctrines as “unimportant”?

3. In what ways has doctrine nourished your personal walk with Christ?

4. How can your church be strengthened by faithfully teaching every part of God’s truth?