The words of Paul (and the other apostles) are sound words that we must hold fast to. What is sound doctrine you may ask? The word sound means, sound health, to be well, to be uncorrupt. The words that Paul and the other apostles spoke (concerning the gospel) were sound because they are the words of God (1 Thessalonians 2:13), and they are the commandments of the Lord (1 Corinthians 14:37).
We are to hold fast to them (the pattern of sound words doctrine) by continuing in them (2 Timothy 3:14) (Titus 1:9). This is what characterized the early church from the beginning (Acts 2:40-43).
We are to hold fast to them by contending for them (Jude 3). The faith (that doctrine given to us to believe) has been delivered once for all. We don’t need to look for any new teaching or any new revelation from God. Why? Because God has given us all things that pertain to life and godliness (2 Peter 1:1-4) (2 Timothy 3:16-17)
We are to hold fast to them by displaying them (Titus 2:1-10). In doctrine showing integrity, reverence, and incorruptibility. Doctrine (Gr. didaskalia) is teaching or instruction. Integrity (Gr. adiaphthoria) is incorruptibility, freedom from corruptible mixtures or adulterations. Titus here was being advised not to mix into God’s word anything that would deprive a believer of its eternal value, or water it down. Reverence (Gr. semnotes) is gravity, honesty, the manner in which a preacher delivers his message, or we share the gospel. It should be preached (declared) in such a way as to command respect towards God. Incorruptibility (Gr. aphtharsia) is purity, sincerity, and incorrupt.
What is our duty as believers in Jesus Christ? Our duty is to contend earnestly for the faith! Why? Because of the times we are in (1 Timothy 4:1) (2 Timothy 4:1-4). The question then is….“Are you holding fast the words of the apostles by both continuing in them and contending for them?