I find that it’s a good idea to check myself from time to time to make sure that my theology is staying faithful to scripture and not just to what I want to believe…or what is convenient to believe…or what is self-serving to believe. So before I go making assertions or sharing opinions on certain subjects, I ask myself these six questions.

1. Is it based on something that is actually in the Bible (not just seen on meme, read in an article or heard in a sermon)?

2. Is it in more than one place in the Bible?

3. Have I looked at several translations to see if there are any discrepancies in how key words have been translated?

4. Is it in line with the words, work and witness of Jesus Christ? (check out a red letter Bible if unsure) 

5. Am I putting my theology to work in order to serve God’s people or to serve myself?

6. Am I spreading love or hate?

If I don’t answer yes to the first four questions or aren’t sure about the the last two, then I rethink my position and the conclusions I’ve drawn. 

Feel free to use these six questions see how you and the Bible are getting along. We could all use a check-in from time to time.

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Rev. Anne Russ is an ordained pastor in the Presbyterian Church (USA). Doubting Believer is an online inclusive and progressive community of Christians.