Bible Word of the Day

Doctrine (Christian Theology)

Meaning
Within Christianity the word “doctrine” refers to the synthesis of Christian teachings as they are organized and categorized into various themes found within the Bible. We have to remember that Jesus called twelve men whom He taught to be apostles. There were numerous other disciples, however, these twelve men made up the foundation of teachers who instructed others. And during the times of the early church Christians referred to the teachings of Christ and the Apostles.

These writings included those inspired text which became the Bible as well as informative text which was not inspired, though helpful for instruction. These together made up a body of teachings and instructions for Christians. They were recognized early on within the Christian faith, as early as the events in the second book of Acts.

And by the second century, they became an officially recognized doctrinal teachings that were referred to as the “Didache.” These also became known as the “Teachings of the Twelve Apostles.” Though not considered divine in its entirety it did contain the books of the Bible as well. But what’s important for our understanding. Is this collection consisted of the teachings of Jesus, the teachings of the Apostles, the books of the Old Testament and the letters of the New Testament.