If Doctrine Makes You Proud, It’s Not from Christ

You have to love the Puritans for getting to the core of an issue. This is especially a good reminder for those of us who love good doctrine. Good doctrines have Jesus’ “character and image engraved upon them” and should lead us to be more like him.

Would you like to test whether this or that doctrine is from the Spirit of Christ or not? Examine it by this rule: whatever doctrine you find to encourage and countenance sin, to exalt self, to be accommodating to the world’s designs, and that bends to the humors and lusts of men, you may safely reject. Whatever doctrine makes those who profess it to be carnal, proud, and sensual, you may safely conclude never came from Jesus Christ. The doctrines of Christ lead to godliness; his truth sanctifies. Do not swallow anything, even if it comes ever so dearly, that does not have some relish of Christ and holiness in it. (John Flavel)