The ancient Greek word translated as "doctrine" at its root means, "instruction, especially as it applies to lifestyle application." In the Bible, the word doctrine is specifically used to refer to spiritual topics and areas of study. Essentially, doctrine is teaching that is shared by a scholarly or definitive source. The Bible itself is profitable for doctrine (2 Timothy 3:16–17).
As Christians, we are supposed to keep a close watch on our doctrine (1 Timothy 4:16). Biblical doctrine instructs us in godly living, and the spiritual gifts given to us and others in the body of Christ enable us to stay on the right course: "so that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes. Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ" (Ephesians 4:14–15).
Biblical doctrine informs our knowledge of God's will. It enables us to better understand:
• The path of salvation (Ephesians 2:1–10; Romans 10:9–10)
• Instructions for the church (1 Corinthians 14:26, 40; Titus 2:1–10; 1 Timothy 3:1–13)
• Holy living (1 Peter 1:14–17; 1 Corinthians 6:18–20)
• The nature and character of God (Psalm 90:2; 97:2; 103:8; John 4:24)
God's Word is the foundation for all Christian doctrine. Second Timothy 3:16–17 tells us:
"All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work" (see also 2 Peter 1:20–21).
There can be differences in the church over secondary doctrinal topics, such as church government or eschatology, but all biblical doctrine should incorporate and be based on the whole Bible or counsel of God (Acts 20:27) and on the unchanging character of God (Hebrews 13:8; Numbers 23:19).