A Discipling Church Speaks Truth

Edward F. Lundwall, Jr.


“I write so that you may know how you ought to conduct yourself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth.” 1 Timothy 3:15

The church is the pillar and ground of truth by God's design. For where God dwells the truth is present, for He is Truth. When the faithful honor God they gain access to His truth. The truth sets us free from spiritual bondage and equips us to stand for the Gospel as Christ’s soldiers (II Cor 10:4).

The scriptural design for the Church is to develop mature followers of Jesus Christ. The Lord requires spiritually gifted and mature leaders to make this happen. I am not speaking of super Christians, but rather of people who daily walk the way of faith. These are the salt and light of which the Bible speaks.

People will not hear the truth from the world. Where can they turn but to the church? Is your church a place where truth is spoken? Do you hold leaders in your church accountable for speaking the truth from the pulpit and in the classroom?

Related reading: How to Build a Disciple-Making Church

The Way of Faith

Edward F. Lundwall, Jr.


What is the way of Christian faith? How is it described in the Bible?

The way of faith trusts both God’s love and God's character. His love is shown to us in that "while we were still sinners" he gave his Son for us (Romans 5:8). His character is that of perfect and immutable Goodness. "Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows." (James 1:17)

The way is described as narrow. "Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it." (Matthew 7:13-14)

There are many obstacles in the way: temptations, distractions, hypocrisy, pride, demonic activity, etc. Walking the way of faith requires single-minded obedience and trust. “Trust in the LORD with all your heart; and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct your paths. Be not wise in your own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil.” (Proverbs 3:5-7).

Do not become distracted by disputations and foolish arguments. As the Apostle Paul exhorted Timothy: “Useless wranglings of men of corrupt minds and destitute of the truth, who suppose that godliness is a means of gain. From such withdraw yourself.” (1 Timothy 6:5-6).

The way of faith is pleasing to God and is rewarded. For without faith it is impossible to please God. To come to God we must "believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.” (Heb 11:6).


Related reading: INDEX of Topics on Discipleship; Are You His Disciple Indeed?