“Therefore, brethren, stand fast and hold the traditions which you were taught, whether by word or our epistle” (2 Thessalonians 2:15).
Paul’s exhortation to hold the traditions which you were taught must be reconciled with the common view that tradition in the church is an evil that should be avoided. This can be easily done by looking at the entire verse. The “traditions” that we are to hold on to are the ones that have come through the agency of the Holy Spirit!
Progressivism in the church is dangerous. It is not that we object to a TV or projector over an overhead, chalkboard or bedsheet. It is also not an objection to the use of the internet, social media and Bible apps on our phones. Some may argue that the older ways are better, but typically it is because they are used to them, not because they are intrinsically better or more righteous.
But, there are certain “traditions”, with us for almost 2,000 years that are sacrosanct. They are God’s ways, thoughts, and methods. They are better than the “improvements” that may claim must be made to keep God relevant in our modern times.
Changes in worship, morals, objectives and work are sometimes championed because “times have changed.” That doesn’t matter. God told us how He wants us to worship Him. He established once for all what is moral (righteous) and immoral (sin). He has given us His work to do in His way. So, hold fast to the traditions of God!
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