* Orthodoxy keeps the powerful doctrines of the… gospel in careful and much needed balance. Otherwise, if focused upon singly and exclusively, these doctrines are so powerful we can spin off and go wild. Orthodoxy, therefore, rather than being repressive, is a great adventure in handling powerful doctrines that bring great happiness when “fitly framed” and when woven together but which can bring misery if we spin them off separately (Ephesians 2:21; 4:16). When doctrines are pulled apart from each other by mankind’s selection, interpretations, and implementations, the results can be tragic.
Ultimately orthodoxy—-and orthodoxy isn’t a popular word nowadays—-is expressed in the Christlike life that involves both mind and behavior. Christ’s manner of life is truly “the way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6) and He has directed us to pursue his example (Matthew 5:48).
The doctrines of the Church need each other as much as the people of the church need each other. We dare not break the doctrines apart or specialize within them, because we need them all to achieve spiritual symmetry, an outcome that requires connections and corrections.
Orthodoxy is felicity—-in beliefs and behavior. ~Neal A. Maxwell
