Playlist:

playlist Go to the Doubtful Things (topic) playlist

Filter by Categories

Faith versus Doubtful Things

Sermon by Martin G. Collins

Doubtful things, as areas of life where clear biblical guidance is not explicit, present challenges to a Christian's conduct. These gray areas raise questions about the extent to which a believer can adopt societal standards or continue worldly practices after being called. Issues such as appropriate clothing, modesty, and the consumption of alcohol often fall into this category, prompting uncertainty about what is right or wrong for a Christian. To navigate these doubtful matters, three guiding principles emerge from Scripture. First, Christians must not obey human nature's lusts, as the body is an instrument of righteousness to God. This means avoiding becoming enslaved to anything—whether it be alcohol, modern trends, or personal desires—that could lead to sin. Second, while some actions may be lawful, not all are helpful or beneficial. Something might gain harmful control over a person spiritually or physically, or it might negatively impact other believers. The focus must be on whether one is using things or being used by them, ensuring that personal freedom does not harm others' spiritual growth. Third, in deciding between doubtful things, Christians are to pursue the very best and most excellent aspects of life. This includes embracing what is true, noble, just, pure, lovely, and of good report, meditating on these virtues to guide conduct. These principles require wisdom and discernment, especially when considering the effect of one's actions on others in God's church. There may be lawful activities that must be avoided if they offend or hinder a brother or sister. The pursuit of excellence in doubtful areas also involves appreciating the best values, whether explicitly Christian or not, while maintaining fellowship with God and seeking His will. Through these standards, Christians can address doubtful things with confidence, trusting that God's Spirit will guide and bless their efforts to please Him.

Making the Right Choice

CGG Weekly by John Reiss

The Bible is dogmatic about certain core doctrines, but we are left to decide how to understand other issues with principles we glean from His Word.

Judging in the Church

Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)

Human nature is strongly competitive and full of pride, making judgment inherently problematic. Nevertheless, God wants us to learn to judge with equity.

Romans 14, Judging, Food, and Sin

Commentary by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)

We need to be careful about what we consume, but we cannot be judgmental if a brother cannot afford organically grown food and must depend on inferior food.