Why is having sound doctrine important for Christians?

Having sound doctrine is crucial because it shapes the way we understand and articulate the gospel. The gospel cannot be divorced from doctrine; it informs us about Christ's nature, His work of redemption, and how we are saved. Without sound doctrine, believers can fall into error or misunderstanding about key aspects of their faith. In Ephesians 1:13, hearing the gospel preached through sound doctrine also facilitates a true encounter with Christ, enabling believers to grasp the depth of their need for His grace. Sound doctrine points us to the Savior and provides a foundation for our faith.