2 Timothy 2:15 English Standard Version (ESV) Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved,[a] a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth.
Footnote a; That is, one approved after being tested
When taking a test, are we allowed to grade our own exams? No, and so it is within this kingdom life. How well we are doing in rightly handling the word of truth is scored in two ways. The first is in how we treat others and the second is in exposing our doctrine to others. Of the two, the first is the more important. It is always best to love first and ask questions later.
When the term “our doctrine” is used it might not be immediately apparent that we have a doctrine but that is merely our belief system that is developed over years of study. Studying the Word alone will not expose our understanding to our instructors, pastors, and teachers. Being confident in our understanding does not mean we have it right. We need to expose our beliefs to others.
Not so long ago it was mentioned that wise counselors are given these works for review and correction where needed. The selection of wise counselors is never performed in a vacuum. They can only prove themselves to be trustworthy by being involved in our lives. If they cannot make time to get involved with us, trust cannot be established.
Proverbs 15:22-23 English Standard Version
22 Without counsel plans fail, but with many advisers they succeed.
23 To make an apt answer is a joy to a man, and a word in season, how good it is!
Do not seek counsel only with those who agree with you at every turn. Do not rely upon only one adviser. This is about getting it right, not being right.