Doctrine anD

Duty of Self-examination
I believe there are a few lost doctrines that are not taught in churches today. One of
them is the doctrine and duty of self-examination that I will be giving a brief summary on.

The scriptures are clear to always examine ourselves to be sure we are in the faith. (2
Cor. 13:5) Why must we examine ourselves? Because the nature of our heart is deceitful above
everything and desperately wicked. (Jer. 17:9) We can’t imagine how evil we truly are to a Holy
and good God. We constantly try to convince ourselves that we are really not that bad. We
make mistakes but we are a good person. Well, if we are so good than why does wrath abide
upon us?

I was once in deception or self-deception. I truly believe I was a Christian before I heard
of this very important doctrine. I heard it preached by Paul Washer. Why are some self-
deceived? Culture accustoms is one big answer. Hindus in India are Hindus because of the
culture, families and friends. Not because they know it’s the truth. Catholics in South America
are Catholics not because they follow the truth but because everyone else is a Catholic, friends,
families, etc. In the same way most Christians in North America are Christians because of the
cultural influence in their lives, family, friends, etc. Most of these Christians don’t read their
Bibles and if they do its out of self-righteous act trying to please God by one chapter a day type
of motto. Neither is pray life like a true believer. False Christians act like praying is a task. I
talked to one person that she prays only driving to work. And that she is happy that she has an
hour commute to work. I believe this is very good evidence of self-deception. In 2 Corinthians
13:5 it is not only a commandment it is a warning.

What are ways we can tell if we truly have the saving faith that we need from God? One
place to start is your mind (Romans 8:5, 8:7). What are your thoughts like? Do you seek the
Kingdom of God? Do you seek after His righteousness? Are your thoughts constantly being on
Christ? Do you think that honor, wealth, and possessions are worthless? A true Christian seeks
the kingdom of God; his/her thoughts are constantly on Christ. They couldn’t stop thinking of
Christ for 15 minutes if they try. At least this is the case for me. They seek God’s righteousness
and know that their righteousness is worthless. Your mind starts to change into a Christ mind or
Christ consciousness.

What are your views on sin? (Ezek. 16:63) Do you believe you are a sinner and deserving
of eternal wrath? Do you enjoy sinning or hate sinning? Do you want to sin? A true Christian
believes he/she deserves wrath and eternal Hell. They are broken over their sin. They grow to
hate it and don’t want to do it.

Feb. 9, 2010 DwellingWithGod.com By Jay Gheen

 Do you rejoice in suffering? (2 Cor. 4:17 -18, Romans 5:3) A Christian will learn to always
give thanks to the Lord whatever the circumstance they are in. Even in their health, sickness,
wealth, poverty, etc. They learn to not love the world or the things in the world. (1 John 2:15)

Do you understand important doctrines such as the Atonement of sin? Do you accept
Christ will save the vilest people on earth like an Adolf Hitler? A better example is Paul in the
New Testament. Paul killed Christians before God saved him. A Christian understands that God
is forgiving and compassionate for everyone. The Christian desires to read God’s word to detect
hidden evils in their hearts. They want to increase in their understanding of God’s word and
doctrines. They seek heavenly things (1 John 5:4, Col 3:1) and stop laying treasures on earth.

Do you have faith in Christ and nothing else? Does your faith grow? A Christian will on
Judgment Day will not say to Christ that they done this or done that in His name (works). But will
only claim to have trusted in Christ that He paid the penalty of their sins.

Does Christ control us? Are you being spirit filled? (2 Cor. 5:14 – 14) Do you tremble as
slaves because God is a consuming fire? Do you love the brethren? (1 John 4:20)At the same
time do you act like a child totally dependent on God saying to God “Abba Father?” A Christian
understands that God is not someone to deal lightly with. But at the same time God is our father
and we are his children. (1 John 3:1-2)

This should give you a good understanding of what needs to be examined. I urge if you
do not fit the characteristics of a Christian. You may be in self-deception. Start seeking God like
the flames of Hell is about to snatch you. Repent (turn away from self to Christ) and believe the
Gospel (Christ died for your sins). Cry out to God until He saves you and gives you a
confirmation. Don’t stop until He does! It took me about two weeks, some people it’s instantly.

Feb. 9, 2010 DwellingWithGod.com By Jay Gheen