What does the Bible say about the importance of doctrine in the church?

Doctrine is crucial because it forms the basis of what we believe and how we worship. Christ has given His church a body of doctrine that encapsulates His teachings about salvation, the nature of God, and our relationship with Him. In John 7:16, Jesus emphasized that His doctrine is not His own but from God. Understanding and adhering to this doctrine is essential for true unity among believers, as seen in Acts 2:42, where the early church devoted themselves to the apostles' doctrine, fellowship, and breaking of bread. Thus, without sound doctrine, the church risks falling into confusion and false teachings.