The 4th chapter of 1 Timothy is a warning to continue in the doctrine. I believe that the Christian world today is moving away from a strong stance on doctrine to a "softer, gentler and more tolerant" view of the Bible. This is dangerous and although the pews may fill to hear this doctrine, it does nothing to sustain the Christian. Let us look at what Paul wrote...
1 Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils;
2 Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron;
He continues to write outlining specific doctrines that will be preached. Of course, we know from other writings that those that leave the doctrine will preach things that are pleasant to the listener. 2 Timothy 4 states...
3 For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;
4 And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.
The Bible is full of the love of God. We know through the scripture that there is great hope and joy in the Holy Ghost. It is the redeeming message of the Word of God that will ultimately allow us to enter heaven, but it is the same Word that will judge us. We cannot abandon the doctrine or teachings of the Word no matter how "unpopular" they may become. Paul warned us...
13 Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine.
14 Neglect not the gift that is in thee, which was given thee by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery.
15 Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all.
16 Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.
Proverbs 23 states...
23 Buy the truth, and sell it not; also wisdom, and instruction, and understanding.
