TITUS, DAY 4
OBLIGATIONS OF BELIEVERS TO LIVE RIGHTEOUSLY
Instruction to Titus and Closing Words
Titus 2:11 – 3:15
PREPARING TITUS FOR HIS TASK
It is not documented in Scripture when Paul and Titus ministered in Crete, but Verse 5 of Chapter 1 clearly states that Paul left Titus behind in Crete to finish the business of building the church of Crete with Godly leaders. I don’t want to repeat things from my fellow writers, but Paul has done this in other areas of that region. Paul will share the Good News of Jesus Christ. People come to know Christ. New believers are discipled and mentored. Then, Paul moves on to a new region to preach the Gospel and leaves behind a group of leaders to further establish the church and to discipline and mentor the leaders to lead the church in that new region.
Paul gave his instruction on “Qualifications for Leaders,” and spelled out “Characteristics of the Unbelieving.” He gave “Instructions to the Church.” Now, he gives “Instructions to Titus” as a church trainer and mentor on how to finish the task.
Instructions to Titus
Paul wants Titus to lead by example so that people can see the model of “living righteously” before the world, and how that is accomplished. Starting in Chapter 2:11, Paul’s instruction to Titus is:
- Speak of God’s grace and purpose.
- Deny ungodliness and worldly lust.
- Live with sound minds, righteously, and godly.
- Look for our hope.
- Be zealous of good works.
- Then remind the believers (3:1 – 8).
- Be submissive to rulers.
- Be obedient.
- Be ready for every good work.
- Speak evil of no one.
- Be peaceable.
- Be gentle.
- Show humility.
- Remember that we were once unbelievers.
- Remember what God our Savior has done for us.
- Constantly affirm that good works need to be the pattern of our lives.
Paul then provides a list of things to avoid:
- Foolish disputes
- Genealogies
- Strife
- Arguments about the law
- Divisive people
Then, he closes the letter to Titus by suggesting:
- Come visit me.
- Teach others to maintain good works so and remain fruitful.
Something to think about
Paul’s approach with his instruction to Titus is:
- Get your mind and heart spiritually right before you try to lead others.
- Understand the vision (hope) that is before us through Christ Jesus.
- Have a passion for good works.
Then, you are able to lead others in the church by showing the proper example.
Application
A basic principle being taught here is, “As the leader goes, so do the people.” There is a tremendous responsibility being mentioned here. If your desire is to serve God well, then you must be spiritually ready to model it properly to those you are ministering to.
Blessings from Carlton Ringer