Paul followed the same pattern in Galatians, Ephesians, Philip- pians, Colossians, and 1 Thessalonians. The doctrinal message came first. True doctrine transforms behavior as it is woven into the fab- ric of everyday life. But it must be understood if it is to have its impact. The real challenge of the ministry is to dispense the truth clearly and accurately.
Practical application comes easily by com- parison.
No believer can apply truth he doesn't know. Those who don't understand what the Bible really says about marriage, divorce, family, child-rearing, discipline, money, debt, work, service to Christ, eternal rewards, helping the poor, caring for widows, respecting government, and other teachings won't be able to apply it. Those who don't know what the Bible teaches about salvation can- not be saved. Those who don't know what the Bible teaches about holiness are incapable of dealing with sin. Thus they are unable to live fully to their own blessedness and God's glory.