Titus 3:12-15
Paul concludes his instructions to Titus in a manner similar to that of his other letters, but it reinforces another important aspect of ministry. We are not alone in our ministry.
Fleeing from Jezebel, Elijah hid in a cave on the mountain. When God asked why he was there, he answered in a depressed and discouraged manner, “And he said, I have been very jealous for the LORD God of hosts: because the children of Israel have forsaken thy covenant, thrown down thine altars, and slain thy prophets with the sword; and I, even I only, am left; and they seek my life, to take it away,” (I Kings 19:14).
While Elijah felt depressed, the fact was far different. God revealed that he was not alone. Not only was God there, but 7,000 others as well. “Yet I have left me seven thousand in Israel, all the knees which have not bowed unto Baal, and every mouth which hath not kissed him,” (I Kings 19:18). Elijah was to be responsible for anointing Jehu king of Israel, and training Elisha to take over his own job.
We are not alone in serving God, and we have responsibilities toward others who are, even though they may not be part of our ministry. To support missionaries, or to assist others in starting a church or dealing with problems enriches our ministry and strengthens theirs. Sometimes, just fellowshipping is crucial, especially for pastors in small struggling churches or who are just starting. Unfortunately, most conferences are geared for established and strong churches, rather than encouraging weak ones. Paul’s directions deal with meeting both the emotional and physical needs of Titus, and the others.
“When I shall send Artemas unto thee, or Tychicus, be diligent to come unto me to Nicopolis: for I have determined there to winter. Bring Zenas the lawyer and Apollos on their journey diligently, that nothing be wanting unto them.” (Titus 3:12-13)
By taking the time to reach out to others in their ministry, Titus will also be setting an example for others, both those in Titus’ ministry, and those affected by Apollos, Zenas, and Paul. They will learn to love others, and it will result in fruit in their lives. Paul’s associates share their love in encouragement.
“And let ours also learn to maintain good works for necessary uses, that they be not unfruitful. All that are with me salute thee. Greet them that love us in the faith. Grace be with you all. Amen.” (Titus 3:14-15)
Letting people know we care about them is essential. Proverbs 27:5 tells us that people need to know they matter. It declares, “Open rebuke is better than secret love.” Children who only get attention when they do wrong frequently do wrong to get the attention. We do not want to drive others out of the Lords work, or into sin because we didn’t bother to show we cared.
Showing posts with label Titus. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Titus. Show all posts
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
The Ambassador Must Not Be Misled
Titus 3:8-11
Prior to the out break of World War II, both Germany and Japan had given assurances to English and American ambassadors that their buildup of troops was strictly a result of fear of attack by their neighbors were not for the purpose of invasion. At least two ambassadors were misled and assured English and American leaders that we had nothing to fear. In fact, they encouraged both England and America to assist Germany in her efforts to end the depression.
When Germany began to invade her neighbors, both England and America were caught off guard. The Blitzkrieg disrupted and neutralized opposition in most of Europe, and Germany was able to establish a strong military bases along the English Channel, within easy striking distance of London. They began to bomb England in preparation for invasion. Fortunately Churchill led England to begin to prepare against the advice of the diplomats, and when attacks began on England, they were able to prevent immediate invasion. The bombing of Pearl Harbor convinced America they could no longer remain neutral.
Since World War II, we have insisted that diplomatic efforts not ignore provocative activities. We cannot afford to just give free rein to those who wish to destroy us. While the ambassador is to try to promote peace, he is responsible for seeing we are protected.
As ambassadors for Christ, Christians must understand their responsibility to represent Christ as a loving and good Savior. Their actions will influence the attitude of the unsaved toward Christ. If Christians cannot get along with each other, or can’t be trusted to do good, it would be wise to not associate with them. James makes it clear that our actions demonstrate the reality of our faith in Christ. Several examples are given including the following.
“If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food, And one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit? Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone. Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: show me thy faith without thy works, and I will show thee my faith by my works.” (James 2:15-18)
Every believer ought to be doing good actions, and Titus is responsible for teaching them to do so.
“This is a faithful saying, and these things I will that thou affirm constantly, that they which have believed in God might be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable unto men.” (Titus 3:8)
The ambassadors of Christ must also recognize that he is responsible for preventing attacks on the faith of others. Sometimes the job is identifying enmity and deceit to avoid harm to one‘s own position.
“But avoid foolish questions, and genealogies, and contentions, and strivings about the law; for they are unprofitable and vain.“ (Titus 3:9)
Just as Germany used fears of Russian attack to distract from their plans to conquer their neighbors, Satan will often use other issues to distract us from his attack on our faith. To avoid distraction, it will be necessary not to get caught up in these issues. One of the things to be avoided is foolish questions, of which the classic example is that of how many angels can dance on the head of a pin, which was debated for many years. The answer is irrelevant, since it contributes nothing to spiritual or physical life. Discussions about whether the locusts mentioned in Revelation 9:3 is describing attack helicopters appeal to vanity, but provide no useful benefit. They are a waste of time.
A person’s family history has little to do with his relationship to God. Eli was The High Priest, and could trace his family tree al the way back to Adam. It didn’t prevent his sons being described as sons of Belial or Satan in I Samuel 2:12. Each person chooses for himself. A family background is irrelevant to ones faith. The discussion focuses attention away from more important matters.
Contentions, or arguments are another ongoing distraction that prevent us seeing Satanic attacks on us and the church. These arguments can range from which version of the Bible to use, to how missionaries are to be supported, to what color the auditorium should be painted. I Corinthians 3:3 makes it clear these contentions are the result of a lack of spiritual development. “For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men?”
Like each of the others, strivings about the law, or doctrinal issues can distract from seeing what is really going on. They can also become a means of spiritual destruction. Legalism is discussed in several of Paul’s writings, especially Galatians, and appeared in Acts 15. It is still prevalent. Calvinism has been around for three hundred years. They are just two of many such issues, but they have destroyed the faith of thousands. We are to avoid such things “for they are unprofitable and vain.”(Titus 3:9b). They appeal to our pride, but detract from spiritual growth.
Some insist on teaching and believing unscriptural doctrine, even after being shown what the Bible teaches. In such case. Paul instructs, “A man that is an heretic after the first and second admonition reject; Knowing that he that is such is subverted, and sinneth, being condemned of himself,” (Titus 3:10-11).
Heresy results from improper understanding of the scripture and from accepting other teachings as having similar impact. Paul instructed Timothy to “Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. But shun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness,” In II Timothy 2:15-16.
Other teachings are not needed to understand what God desires. II Timothy 3:16-17 states, “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.” All of the scripture is applicable and relevant, and includes everything that is needed to fully please God.
II Peter 1:20-21 makes it clear that interpretation of scripture cannot be based on man’s opinion of what it says, but on God’s. This requires comparing God’s statements in other passages to be sure our interpretation is correct. “Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost,” (II Peter 1:20-21).
A man who persists in holding false doctrine has refused to find out what God says. He “is subverted, and sinneth, being condemned of himself,” according to Titus 3:11. There is no room for ‘agreeing to disagree.’ Romans 16:17-18 begs, “Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them. For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple.” Continued association can only result in confusion for weaker Christians.
While I was in Bible college, the issue of Calvinism showed up. The administration forbid discussing the issue, because supporting pastors were divided over the issue. My roommate dropped out of college, and later turned away from the Lord as a result of confusion over the issue. I failed to help him because I didn’t want to get in trouble and let it go. It is not God’s will for such divisions to exist among us. I Corinthians 1:10 expresses God’s intent. “Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.” As I Corinthians 14:33 states, “For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints.”
Prior to the out break of World War II, both Germany and Japan had given assurances to English and American ambassadors that their buildup of troops was strictly a result of fear of attack by their neighbors were not for the purpose of invasion. At least two ambassadors were misled and assured English and American leaders that we had nothing to fear. In fact, they encouraged both England and America to assist Germany in her efforts to end the depression.
When Germany began to invade her neighbors, both England and America were caught off guard. The Blitzkrieg disrupted and neutralized opposition in most of Europe, and Germany was able to establish a strong military bases along the English Channel, within easy striking distance of London. They began to bomb England in preparation for invasion. Fortunately Churchill led England to begin to prepare against the advice of the diplomats, and when attacks began on England, they were able to prevent immediate invasion. The bombing of Pearl Harbor convinced America they could no longer remain neutral.
Since World War II, we have insisted that diplomatic efforts not ignore provocative activities. We cannot afford to just give free rein to those who wish to destroy us. While the ambassador is to try to promote peace, he is responsible for seeing we are protected.
As ambassadors for Christ, Christians must understand their responsibility to represent Christ as a loving and good Savior. Their actions will influence the attitude of the unsaved toward Christ. If Christians cannot get along with each other, or can’t be trusted to do good, it would be wise to not associate with them. James makes it clear that our actions demonstrate the reality of our faith in Christ. Several examples are given including the following.
“If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food, And one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit? Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone. Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: show me thy faith without thy works, and I will show thee my faith by my works.” (James 2:15-18)
Every believer ought to be doing good actions, and Titus is responsible for teaching them to do so.
“This is a faithful saying, and these things I will that thou affirm constantly, that they which have believed in God might be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable unto men.” (Titus 3:8)
The ambassadors of Christ must also recognize that he is responsible for preventing attacks on the faith of others. Sometimes the job is identifying enmity and deceit to avoid harm to one‘s own position.
“But avoid foolish questions, and genealogies, and contentions, and strivings about the law; for they are unprofitable and vain.“ (Titus 3:9)
Just as Germany used fears of Russian attack to distract from their plans to conquer their neighbors, Satan will often use other issues to distract us from his attack on our faith. To avoid distraction, it will be necessary not to get caught up in these issues. One of the things to be avoided is foolish questions, of which the classic example is that of how many angels can dance on the head of a pin, which was debated for many years. The answer is irrelevant, since it contributes nothing to spiritual or physical life. Discussions about whether the locusts mentioned in Revelation 9:3 is describing attack helicopters appeal to vanity, but provide no useful benefit. They are a waste of time.
A person’s family history has little to do with his relationship to God. Eli was The High Priest, and could trace his family tree al the way back to Adam. It didn’t prevent his sons being described as sons of Belial or Satan in I Samuel 2:12. Each person chooses for himself. A family background is irrelevant to ones faith. The discussion focuses attention away from more important matters.
Contentions, or arguments are another ongoing distraction that prevent us seeing Satanic attacks on us and the church. These arguments can range from which version of the Bible to use, to how missionaries are to be supported, to what color the auditorium should be painted. I Corinthians 3:3 makes it clear these contentions are the result of a lack of spiritual development. “For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men?”
Like each of the others, strivings about the law, or doctrinal issues can distract from seeing what is really going on. They can also become a means of spiritual destruction. Legalism is discussed in several of Paul’s writings, especially Galatians, and appeared in Acts 15. It is still prevalent. Calvinism has been around for three hundred years. They are just two of many such issues, but they have destroyed the faith of thousands. We are to avoid such things “for they are unprofitable and vain.”(Titus 3:9b). They appeal to our pride, but detract from spiritual growth.
Some insist on teaching and believing unscriptural doctrine, even after being shown what the Bible teaches. In such case. Paul instructs, “A man that is an heretic after the first and second admonition reject; Knowing that he that is such is subverted, and sinneth, being condemned of himself,” (Titus 3:10-11).
Heresy results from improper understanding of the scripture and from accepting other teachings as having similar impact. Paul instructed Timothy to “Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. But shun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness,” In II Timothy 2:15-16.
Other teachings are not needed to understand what God desires. II Timothy 3:16-17 states, “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.” All of the scripture is applicable and relevant, and includes everything that is needed to fully please God.
II Peter 1:20-21 makes it clear that interpretation of scripture cannot be based on man’s opinion of what it says, but on God’s. This requires comparing God’s statements in other passages to be sure our interpretation is correct. “Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost,” (II Peter 1:20-21).
A man who persists in holding false doctrine has refused to find out what God says. He “is subverted, and sinneth, being condemned of himself,” according to Titus 3:11. There is no room for ‘agreeing to disagree.’ Romans 16:17-18 begs, “Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them. For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple.” Continued association can only result in confusion for weaker Christians.
While I was in Bible college, the issue of Calvinism showed up. The administration forbid discussing the issue, because supporting pastors were divided over the issue. My roommate dropped out of college, and later turned away from the Lord as a result of confusion over the issue. I failed to help him because I didn’t want to get in trouble and let it go. It is not God’s will for such divisions to exist among us. I Corinthians 1:10 expresses God’s intent. “Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.” As I Corinthians 14:33 states, “For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints.”
Monday, March 1, 2010
What Are You Mad About?
Titus 3:3-7
“Look at the way he’s parked! Somebody ought to slash his tires for parking like that.”
I was walking across a restaurant parking lot when I heard the above comments from a man about my age. Looking at the truck he was talking about, I realized it was parked with two wheels over the line of the parking space, but the vehicle beyond was also parked the same way. The driver probably had no choice. The parking lot was nearly empty, so it wouldn’t have mattered if the truck took up three or four spaces.
We constantly hear about instances of road rage, but that was probably as unfounded an attitude as I have heard. Only a person who has never made such a mistake has the right to get angry when someone else makes a mistake. I’ve made enough mistakes that I rarely have the right to get angry at someone else for their’s. To get angry about some one else making a mistake I’ve made is total hypocrisy. Romans 2:1-3 warns about such hypocrisy.
“Therefore thou art inexcusable, O man, whosoever thou art that judgest: for wherein thou judgest another, thou condemnest thyself; for thou that judgest doest the same things. But we are sure that the judgment of God is according to truth against them which commit such things. And thinkest thou this, O man, that judgest them which do such things, and doest the same, that thou shalt escape the judgment of God?”
It is essential that if we are going to train others to serve God, we be willing forgive the sins of others. Recognizing our own sin and understanding that Christ forgave us will make it much easier to forgive others. We need to be able to forgive ourselves, and to teach others to forgive. Christ forgave us for our sins, even though he had not committed any himself. Hebrews 4:15 is clear about this. “For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.”
Relating properly to other people, even errant government officials, and bad employers, is far easier if we realize our own sin. It was not our goodness that saved us, or even that caused Christ to do so.
“For we ourselves also were sometimes foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving divers lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another.
But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared, Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; Which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour; That being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life.” (Titus 3:3-7)
Our sin made us God’s enemies, and deserved damnation. In mercy, God chose not to force the penalty on us. Instead he was willing to forgive us. By grace, he went beyond just forgiving us, and offered his love, and eternal life, even though it cost Christ’s life to do so. He paid our penalty, to the full extent. Romans 3:25 states, “Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God;”
Colossians 1:21-22 tells us he did this so we could come to him freely, with no enmity or guilt to separate us. “And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled In the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight:”
If a sinless God could forgive us and love us despite our sin, we ought have the same kind of love for those he loves. I John 4:10-11 describes the attitude we ought to have. “Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another.”
Recognizing what God has done for us ought to produce an attitude of forgiveness in us. I John 4:20 asks, “If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen?” He doesn’t understand or appreciate what God has done for him.
“Look at the way he’s parked! Somebody ought to slash his tires for parking like that.”
I was walking across a restaurant parking lot when I heard the above comments from a man about my age. Looking at the truck he was talking about, I realized it was parked with two wheels over the line of the parking space, but the vehicle beyond was also parked the same way. The driver probably had no choice. The parking lot was nearly empty, so it wouldn’t have mattered if the truck took up three or four spaces.
We constantly hear about instances of road rage, but that was probably as unfounded an attitude as I have heard. Only a person who has never made such a mistake has the right to get angry when someone else makes a mistake. I’ve made enough mistakes that I rarely have the right to get angry at someone else for their’s. To get angry about some one else making a mistake I’ve made is total hypocrisy. Romans 2:1-3 warns about such hypocrisy.
“Therefore thou art inexcusable, O man, whosoever thou art that judgest: for wherein thou judgest another, thou condemnest thyself; for thou that judgest doest the same things. But we are sure that the judgment of God is according to truth against them which commit such things. And thinkest thou this, O man, that judgest them which do such things, and doest the same, that thou shalt escape the judgment of God?”
It is essential that if we are going to train others to serve God, we be willing forgive the sins of others. Recognizing our own sin and understanding that Christ forgave us will make it much easier to forgive others. We need to be able to forgive ourselves, and to teach others to forgive. Christ forgave us for our sins, even though he had not committed any himself. Hebrews 4:15 is clear about this. “For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.”
Relating properly to other people, even errant government officials, and bad employers, is far easier if we realize our own sin. It was not our goodness that saved us, or even that caused Christ to do so.
“For we ourselves also were sometimes foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving divers lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another.
But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared, Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; Which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour; That being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life.” (Titus 3:3-7)
Our sin made us God’s enemies, and deserved damnation. In mercy, God chose not to force the penalty on us. Instead he was willing to forgive us. By grace, he went beyond just forgiving us, and offered his love, and eternal life, even though it cost Christ’s life to do so. He paid our penalty, to the full extent. Romans 3:25 states, “Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God;”
Colossians 1:21-22 tells us he did this so we could come to him freely, with no enmity or guilt to separate us. “And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled In the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight:”
If a sinless God could forgive us and love us despite our sin, we ought have the same kind of love for those he loves. I John 4:10-11 describes the attitude we ought to have. “Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another.”
Recognizing what God has done for us ought to produce an attitude of forgiveness in us. I John 4:20 asks, “If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen?” He doesn’t understand or appreciate what God has done for him.
Friday, February 26, 2010
Improving Your Traction
Titus 3:1-2
Evan a little loose gravel or sand, water, snow or ice can reduce the friction between tires and the road surface. This increases the danger of losing control and having a wreck. As a result, road maintenance crews scrape off or apply salt to icy or snow packed roads and send street sweepers to remove loose gravel or sand. Roads are constructed to drain away standing water.
There are certain attitudes that can cause us to wreck our Christian testimony. Every Christian is subject to human government at various levels. The attitude we exhibit toward others has a tremendous impact on how effectively we witness. Not only is Titus to insist that certain practices and behaviors be avoided, but they are to have an attitude of respect for others, regardless of their authority.
Many consider that since they serve God, they are not subject to the same rules as other people. They have attitudes much like that of some diplomatic personnel, that they should be free to do as they please. Such attitudes by the diplomatic corps loses the respect of the host country. We are Christ’s ambassadors and while our citizenship is in heaven, we ought to obey our host country’s laws while here. We ought also treat her citizens with the respect due our hosts.
“Put them in mind to be subject to principalities and powers, to obey magistrates, to be ready to every good work, To speak evil of no man, to be no brawlers, but gentle, showing all meekness unto all men.” (Titus 3:1-2)
Paul instructs Titus to constantly remind and encourage the believers in the churches to submit to the local authorities. Peter instructs the Christians to have the same attitude in I Peter 2:13-17.
“Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme; Or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well. For so is the will of God, that with well doing ye may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men: As free, and not using your liberty for a cloak of maliciousness, but as the servants of God. Honour all men. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honour the king.”
We are not to use our citizenship in heaven as a way to get out of doing what is right here. We are not to use our religious beliefs to excuse wrong doing or to escape valid responsibilities. We are to treat our leaders with due respect, not run them down, even though they make serious errors. Romans 13:1-7 goes into even more detail.
“Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation.
For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same: For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil.
Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake. For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God's ministers, attending continually upon this very thing. Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour.”
We need to recognize that political are in that position because God saw fit to put them there. While we may not approve what they do, they are acting as God’s representatives to accomplish his plan. Rebelling against them is rebellion against God. There are legal and proper ways to resolve most problems. We also have the promise that God will resolve our political problems if we will get our relationship with him right. II Chronicles 7:14 promises, “If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.”
Many times God sent problems on Israel to force them to turn to him. Sometimes the things we dislike are for the same purpose. Civil disobedience seldom results in godly results. Most revolutions result in worse conditions than the original ones.
Jesus is often described as a rebel. I Samuel 15:23a states, “For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft.” He was not a rebel because as we find in I Peter 2:21-22, he didn’t sin. “For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps: Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth.”
In fact, when Peter was asked about whether Jesus paid taxes, Jesus instructed him to catch a fish and take the money he found in it’s mouth to pay taxes for both. He stated that while they didn’t owe the taxes, they would pay them to avoid causing an offence to the other people. “Notwithstanding, lest we should offend them, go thou to the sea, and cast an hook, and take up the fish that first cometh up; and when thou hast opened his mouth, thou shalt find a piece of money: that take, and give unto them for me and thee.” (Matthew 17:27)
While we have liberty in Christ, we also have a responsibility to avoid offense to other people. This responsibility overrides our liberty. I Corinthians 8:9 reminds of the duty, “But take heed lest by any means this liberty of yours become a stumblingblock to them that are weak.”
Galatians 5:13 states it slightly differently. “For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another.”
Evan a little loose gravel or sand, water, snow or ice can reduce the friction between tires and the road surface. This increases the danger of losing control and having a wreck. As a result, road maintenance crews scrape off or apply salt to icy or snow packed roads and send street sweepers to remove loose gravel or sand. Roads are constructed to drain away standing water.
There are certain attitudes that can cause us to wreck our Christian testimony. Every Christian is subject to human government at various levels. The attitude we exhibit toward others has a tremendous impact on how effectively we witness. Not only is Titus to insist that certain practices and behaviors be avoided, but they are to have an attitude of respect for others, regardless of their authority.
Many consider that since they serve God, they are not subject to the same rules as other people. They have attitudes much like that of some diplomatic personnel, that they should be free to do as they please. Such attitudes by the diplomatic corps loses the respect of the host country. We are Christ’s ambassadors and while our citizenship is in heaven, we ought to obey our host country’s laws while here. We ought also treat her citizens with the respect due our hosts.
“Put them in mind to be subject to principalities and powers, to obey magistrates, to be ready to every good work, To speak evil of no man, to be no brawlers, but gentle, showing all meekness unto all men.” (Titus 3:1-2)
Paul instructs Titus to constantly remind and encourage the believers in the churches to submit to the local authorities. Peter instructs the Christians to have the same attitude in I Peter 2:13-17.
“Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme; Or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well. For so is the will of God, that with well doing ye may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men: As free, and not using your liberty for a cloak of maliciousness, but as the servants of God. Honour all men. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honour the king.”
We are not to use our citizenship in heaven as a way to get out of doing what is right here. We are not to use our religious beliefs to excuse wrong doing or to escape valid responsibilities. We are to treat our leaders with due respect, not run them down, even though they make serious errors. Romans 13:1-7 goes into even more detail.
“Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation.
For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same: For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil.
Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake. For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God's ministers, attending continually upon this very thing. Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour.”
We need to recognize that political are in that position because God saw fit to put them there. While we may not approve what they do, they are acting as God’s representatives to accomplish his plan. Rebelling against them is rebellion against God. There are legal and proper ways to resolve most problems. We also have the promise that God will resolve our political problems if we will get our relationship with him right. II Chronicles 7:14 promises, “If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.”
Many times God sent problems on Israel to force them to turn to him. Sometimes the things we dislike are for the same purpose. Civil disobedience seldom results in godly results. Most revolutions result in worse conditions than the original ones.
Jesus is often described as a rebel. I Samuel 15:23a states, “For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft.” He was not a rebel because as we find in I Peter 2:21-22, he didn’t sin. “For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps: Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth.”
In fact, when Peter was asked about whether Jesus paid taxes, Jesus instructed him to catch a fish and take the money he found in it’s mouth to pay taxes for both. He stated that while they didn’t owe the taxes, they would pay them to avoid causing an offence to the other people. “Notwithstanding, lest we should offend them, go thou to the sea, and cast an hook, and take up the fish that first cometh up; and when thou hast opened his mouth, thou shalt find a piece of money: that take, and give unto them for me and thee.” (Matthew 17:27)
While we have liberty in Christ, we also have a responsibility to avoid offense to other people. This responsibility overrides our liberty. I Corinthians 8:9 reminds of the duty, “But take heed lest by any means this liberty of yours become a stumblingblock to them that are weak.”
Galatians 5:13 states it slightly differently. “For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another.”
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Where The Rubber Meets The Road
Titus 2:9-15
As J. Vernon McGhee used to say, now we’re getting to where the rubber meets the road. We’ve talked about what kind of people we are trying to produce, and the importance of setting a proper example before them. Now we come to specifics in the daily life of the believer.
“Exhort servants to be obedient unto their own masters, and to please them well in all things; not answering again; Not purloining, but showing all good fidelity; that they may adorn the doctrine of God our Saviour in all things.”(Titus 2:9-10)
Most people, including Christians are employed by someone else. They are in effect, hired servants. Paul addresses the attitude and actions a Christian should have toward his job. A proper attitude toward our jobs will glorify God and incline people toward his word, while an improper attitude will drive people away even faster.
As Christians, there ought to be an attitude of obedience. This does not include doing things that are wrong, but of willingly and eagerly doing what is right, even though we don’t care for the job. There should be and effort to do everything well in order to please the boss. There ought never be backtalk or rebellion, although it is advisable to warn of dangerous or harmful instructions.
There should be no taking things because the company has plenty or cheating on time, materials, or vehicle use. There ought be faithfulness to the company, in loyalty, to not run down the company or other employees. There should not be any depriving the company of work by taking on side jobs for a lower rate. Such behavior is in accord with what we learn about how we should live if we believe God.
“For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.” (Titus 2:11-14)
The gift of God, Christ’s sacrifice has given salvation to every man. We have been made righteous. We ought to live accordingly. Ephesians 4:22-24 expresses the same concept. “That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.”
Colossians 3:5-11 is more specific as to some of the things that need to be put out of our life because they are what brought the wrath of God on us in the first place. “Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry: For which things' sake the wrath of God cometh on the children of disobedience: In the which ye also walked some time, when ye lived in them.
But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth. Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds; And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him: Where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian, bond nor free: but Christ is all, and in all.”
If we have genuinely been changed, and we have the divine nature as described in II Peter 1:4, there should be a pronounced change in the way we live. Every Christian should be growing toward this new character despite their background. Just as the pastors, Titus is to strive to produce this in the people’s lives.
“These things speak, and exhort, and rebuke with all authority. Let no man despise thee.” (Titus 2:15)
To prevent others looking down on him and rejecting his teaching, Titus needs to exemplify what he is teaching and trying to produce. Paul described what was needed in I Timothy 4:12. “Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.” Immaturity or hypocrisy in any of these areas will destroy one’s authority. What right do you have to expect others to do what you don’t?
As J. Vernon McGhee used to say, now we’re getting to where the rubber meets the road. We’ve talked about what kind of people we are trying to produce, and the importance of setting a proper example before them. Now we come to specifics in the daily life of the believer.
“Exhort servants to be obedient unto their own masters, and to please them well in all things; not answering again; Not purloining, but showing all good fidelity; that they may adorn the doctrine of God our Saviour in all things.”(Titus 2:9-10)
Most people, including Christians are employed by someone else. They are in effect, hired servants. Paul addresses the attitude and actions a Christian should have toward his job. A proper attitude toward our jobs will glorify God and incline people toward his word, while an improper attitude will drive people away even faster.
As Christians, there ought to be an attitude of obedience. This does not include doing things that are wrong, but of willingly and eagerly doing what is right, even though we don’t care for the job. There should be and effort to do everything well in order to please the boss. There ought never be backtalk or rebellion, although it is advisable to warn of dangerous or harmful instructions.
There should be no taking things because the company has plenty or cheating on time, materials, or vehicle use. There ought be faithfulness to the company, in loyalty, to not run down the company or other employees. There should not be any depriving the company of work by taking on side jobs for a lower rate. Such behavior is in accord with what we learn about how we should live if we believe God.
“For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.” (Titus 2:11-14)
The gift of God, Christ’s sacrifice has given salvation to every man. We have been made righteous. We ought to live accordingly. Ephesians 4:22-24 expresses the same concept. “That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.”
Colossians 3:5-11 is more specific as to some of the things that need to be put out of our life because they are what brought the wrath of God on us in the first place. “Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry: For which things' sake the wrath of God cometh on the children of disobedience: In the which ye also walked some time, when ye lived in them.
But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth. Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds; And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him: Where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian, bond nor free: but Christ is all, and in all.”
If we have genuinely been changed, and we have the divine nature as described in II Peter 1:4, there should be a pronounced change in the way we live. Every Christian should be growing toward this new character despite their background. Just as the pastors, Titus is to strive to produce this in the people’s lives.
“These things speak, and exhort, and rebuke with all authority. Let no man despise thee.” (Titus 2:15)
To prevent others looking down on him and rejecting his teaching, Titus needs to exemplify what he is teaching and trying to produce. Paul described what was needed in I Timothy 4:12. “Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.” Immaturity or hypocrisy in any of these areas will destroy one’s authority. What right do you have to expect others to do what you don’t?
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
A Picture Is Worth a Thousand Words
Titus 2:7-10
When I started at Production Plumbing, I had never worked on a radiant heating system. We had several houses to plumb, but one needed the boiler system installed. My boss gave me a set of instructions and told me to install the system. If I had trouble with the instructions, the house next door had an identical system I could look at to see what they meant.
I quickly discovered it was a lot easier to understand the directions if I took them and looked at the other system before reading them. In fact, I could probably have installed the system without the directions by just looking at the example. My boss was surprised that I was able to install the system so quickly, because it had taken him far longer on the one I looked at. He hadn’t realized how much difference an example would make.
In developing people with a sound Christian lifestyle and attitude, a good example is crucial. Just as the directions for the boiler were difficult to understand until I saw an example, It is very hard to understand what God is describing until we see it demonstrated. This is the primary reason radio and television, or correspondence ministries are only marginally successful in developing sound Christians. They cannot provide a consistent examples.
A major part of the Pastor’s job is providing an example the people can learn from. This is why the requirements for pastors are so important. Unless he can do what is required, he cannot teach others to do so. Paul is explicit in his instruction to Titus.
“In all things showing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine showing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity, Sound speech, that cannot be condemned; that he that is of the contrary part may be ashamed, having no evil thing to say of you.” (Titus 2:7-8)
He is to demonstrate a useful accurate example of good works, in several specific areas. He must set the example for sound doctrine. II Timothy 2-3 are largely devoted to developing sound doctrine. As Paul has already stressed in chapter one, there are a lot of influences against sound doctrine, including tradition and false teachers.
The pastor or missionary must take his responsibilities seriously. He must also be sincere in his beliefs, not simply repeating what he thinks others want or expect. He needs to understand and believe that he is affecting lives both now, and forever. What seems a very small thing can hurt or help another throughout their life time. Humiliating or derogatory words, whether spoken in anger or in jest, may hinder or prevent spiritual and emotional development. Proper speaking can have tremendous effect in turning people to or away from the Christ.
It is not unreasonable to expect the teacher to be able to do what he is teaching others to do. In fact, he ought to be able to perform satisfactorily in any situation likely to arise in the level he is teaching others to attain. If he can’t, he is not qualified to teach to that level. A major cause of the decline in American education has been the growing number of administrators and college professors who have not taught children themselves. Their knowledge is purely theoretical and untested. They need to demonstrate their own proficiency before teaching or directing others. Failure to recognize this has resulted in the saying, “Those that can, do. Those that can’t, teach.”
The same principle applies to those who are training others for ministry. While Timothy was pastoring, and Titus was training others to pastor, the instructions are very similar. Compare the instructions to Timothy with those to Titus.
“Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity. Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine. Neglect not the gift that is in thee, which was given thee by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery. Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all. Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.” (I Timothy 4:12-16)
As emphasis moves from Spiritual attainment to academic attainment for professors, and college administrators, the spiritual and doctrinal quality of the pastors they train can only decline. That will inevitably lead to spiritual decline in the church, resulting in the kinds of churches we find described in Revelation 2 and 3. The problems pastors are having and the scarcity of men willing to do the job attest to the change in focus of most training programs today.
When I started at Production Plumbing, I had never worked on a radiant heating system. We had several houses to plumb, but one needed the boiler system installed. My boss gave me a set of instructions and told me to install the system. If I had trouble with the instructions, the house next door had an identical system I could look at to see what they meant.
I quickly discovered it was a lot easier to understand the directions if I took them and looked at the other system before reading them. In fact, I could probably have installed the system without the directions by just looking at the example. My boss was surprised that I was able to install the system so quickly, because it had taken him far longer on the one I looked at. He hadn’t realized how much difference an example would make.
In developing people with a sound Christian lifestyle and attitude, a good example is crucial. Just as the directions for the boiler were difficult to understand until I saw an example, It is very hard to understand what God is describing until we see it demonstrated. This is the primary reason radio and television, or correspondence ministries are only marginally successful in developing sound Christians. They cannot provide a consistent examples.
A major part of the Pastor’s job is providing an example the people can learn from. This is why the requirements for pastors are so important. Unless he can do what is required, he cannot teach others to do so. Paul is explicit in his instruction to Titus.
“In all things showing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine showing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity, Sound speech, that cannot be condemned; that he that is of the contrary part may be ashamed, having no evil thing to say of you.” (Titus 2:7-8)
He is to demonstrate a useful accurate example of good works, in several specific areas. He must set the example for sound doctrine. II Timothy 2-3 are largely devoted to developing sound doctrine. As Paul has already stressed in chapter one, there are a lot of influences against sound doctrine, including tradition and false teachers.
The pastor or missionary must take his responsibilities seriously. He must also be sincere in his beliefs, not simply repeating what he thinks others want or expect. He needs to understand and believe that he is affecting lives both now, and forever. What seems a very small thing can hurt or help another throughout their life time. Humiliating or derogatory words, whether spoken in anger or in jest, may hinder or prevent spiritual and emotional development. Proper speaking can have tremendous effect in turning people to or away from the Christ.
It is not unreasonable to expect the teacher to be able to do what he is teaching others to do. In fact, he ought to be able to perform satisfactorily in any situation likely to arise in the level he is teaching others to attain. If he can’t, he is not qualified to teach to that level. A major cause of the decline in American education has been the growing number of administrators and college professors who have not taught children themselves. Their knowledge is purely theoretical and untested. They need to demonstrate their own proficiency before teaching or directing others. Failure to recognize this has resulted in the saying, “Those that can, do. Those that can’t, teach.”
The same principle applies to those who are training others for ministry. While Timothy was pastoring, and Titus was training others to pastor, the instructions are very similar. Compare the instructions to Timothy with those to Titus.
“Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity. Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine. Neglect not the gift that is in thee, which was given thee by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery. Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all. Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.” (I Timothy 4:12-16)
As emphasis moves from Spiritual attainment to academic attainment for professors, and college administrators, the spiritual and doctrinal quality of the pastors they train can only decline. That will inevitably lead to spiritual decline in the church, resulting in the kinds of churches we find described in Revelation 2 and 3. The problems pastors are having and the scarcity of men willing to do the job attest to the change in focus of most training programs today.
Monday, February 22, 2010
What is The Goal?
Titus 2:1-6
Several years ago, vandals took the baskets off the backboards at our youth camp. Imagine what it would have been like to try to play basket ball without the baskets. No one would ever know whether the ball went where it was supposed to or not. In order to successfully play the game, new baskets had to be installed.
Without a concrete goal as to what we are trying to accomplish, the ministry will be unsuccessful. We will have no way of determining what we have accomplished, nor a practical idea as to how to proceed. There are almost infinite possibilities. Culture, and unethical or uninformed teachers clamor for attention. It is easy to become distracted or totally confused. Once a goal is established, efforts can then be directed to accomplishing that goal.
Paul instructs Titus, “But speak thou the things which become sound doctrine:” (Titus 2:1). The word become is used in the same sense that we speak of a woman having a becoming hairdo. It is appropriate or flattering to her. We ought to teach things that are appropriate for sound doctrine. Paul defines certain character traits as goals for each group of Christians. The teaching should contribute to attaining the goals.
“That the aged men be sober, grave, temperate, sound in faith, in charity, in patience.” (Titus 2:2). Mature Christian men ought to exhibit these characteristics. Sober. Grave and temperate overlap in meaning, but they are each different. Christian men ought to be serious minded and thoughtful. They ought to be able to control their lusts and cravings. They ought not be focused on drawing attention to themselves. Their behavior should be mature. I Corinthians 13:11 says, “When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things.”
They should be sound in faith, their faith based on the Word of God, not traditions or opinion. They should exhibit a sound mature love, not manipulative, self serving or fake. They should have learned to let God work, rather than forcing things to happen on their schedule. They are the example for the younger men.
“The aged women likewise, that they be in behaviour as becometh holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things;” (Titus 2:3). Like the mature men, mature women set an example before the younger people. Their attitudes and actions should be in accord with faith in God, not manipulative or selfish and inconsiderate. They ought not be tale bearers, and especially of false tales. Proverbs 26:28a tells us, “A lying tongue hateth those that are afflicted by it.” “The words of a talebearer are as wounds, and they go down into the innermost parts of the belly.” (Proverbs 26:22) Christian love will avoid causing such hurts.
Mature women ought to be filled with the Holy Spirit, not with wine according to Ephesians 5:18, getting comfort and pleasure from the things of God, rather than from those of the world. They ought to be examples and teachers of good things. They are especially responsible for teaching the girls and younger women.
“That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children, To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed.” (Titus 2:4-5)
The mature women ought to live in such a manner they can teach the younger ones by example without a double standard in several areas. First, they must teach them to be sober, in all its aspects of self control and thoughtfulness. Love is something that needs to be taught. We fall into lust, not into love. Love is an attitude toward another being. We can choose to love our mate and our children, or we can choose not to.
Older women have a responsibility to teach the younger ones to be discreet or careful in their actions to avoid suggestive behavior or dress, and to control their impulses and cravings. They have a great deal of influence over the young woman’s understanding of her role in the home, not just a housekeeper, but a valuable part of the home as a teacher, companion, and mother. They have the duty to teach proper submission, not slavery, manipulation, or rebellion.
“Young men likewise exhort to be sober minded.” (Titus 2:6) Young men are to be taught to be thoughtful and to take responsibility for their lives and actions.
Failure to develop these traits properly results in blasphemy against God by husbands, wives, and children, as well as by those around the church, who see God as either evil, irrelevant, or ineffective. The goal is to produce Christians who live in such a manner. To do so it will be necessary to emphasize aspects that are contradicted by local culture until people understand the difference.
Several years ago, vandals took the baskets off the backboards at our youth camp. Imagine what it would have been like to try to play basket ball without the baskets. No one would ever know whether the ball went where it was supposed to or not. In order to successfully play the game, new baskets had to be installed.
Without a concrete goal as to what we are trying to accomplish, the ministry will be unsuccessful. We will have no way of determining what we have accomplished, nor a practical idea as to how to proceed. There are almost infinite possibilities. Culture, and unethical or uninformed teachers clamor for attention. It is easy to become distracted or totally confused. Once a goal is established, efforts can then be directed to accomplishing that goal.
Paul instructs Titus, “But speak thou the things which become sound doctrine:” (Titus 2:1). The word become is used in the same sense that we speak of a woman having a becoming hairdo. It is appropriate or flattering to her. We ought to teach things that are appropriate for sound doctrine. Paul defines certain character traits as goals for each group of Christians. The teaching should contribute to attaining the goals.
“That the aged men be sober, grave, temperate, sound in faith, in charity, in patience.” (Titus 2:2). Mature Christian men ought to exhibit these characteristics. Sober. Grave and temperate overlap in meaning, but they are each different. Christian men ought to be serious minded and thoughtful. They ought to be able to control their lusts and cravings. They ought not be focused on drawing attention to themselves. Their behavior should be mature. I Corinthians 13:11 says, “When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things.”
They should be sound in faith, their faith based on the Word of God, not traditions or opinion. They should exhibit a sound mature love, not manipulative, self serving or fake. They should have learned to let God work, rather than forcing things to happen on their schedule. They are the example for the younger men.
“The aged women likewise, that they be in behaviour as becometh holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things;” (Titus 2:3). Like the mature men, mature women set an example before the younger people. Their attitudes and actions should be in accord with faith in God, not manipulative or selfish and inconsiderate. They ought not be tale bearers, and especially of false tales. Proverbs 26:28a tells us, “A lying tongue hateth those that are afflicted by it.” “The words of a talebearer are as wounds, and they go down into the innermost parts of the belly.” (Proverbs 26:22) Christian love will avoid causing such hurts.
Mature women ought to be filled with the Holy Spirit, not with wine according to Ephesians 5:18, getting comfort and pleasure from the things of God, rather than from those of the world. They ought to be examples and teachers of good things. They are especially responsible for teaching the girls and younger women.
“That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children, To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed.” (Titus 2:4-5)
The mature women ought to live in such a manner they can teach the younger ones by example without a double standard in several areas. First, they must teach them to be sober, in all its aspects of self control and thoughtfulness. Love is something that needs to be taught. We fall into lust, not into love. Love is an attitude toward another being. We can choose to love our mate and our children, or we can choose not to.
Older women have a responsibility to teach the younger ones to be discreet or careful in their actions to avoid suggestive behavior or dress, and to control their impulses and cravings. They have a great deal of influence over the young woman’s understanding of her role in the home, not just a housekeeper, but a valuable part of the home as a teacher, companion, and mother. They have the duty to teach proper submission, not slavery, manipulation, or rebellion.
“Young men likewise exhort to be sober minded.” (Titus 2:6) Young men are to be taught to be thoughtful and to take responsibility for their lives and actions.
Failure to develop these traits properly results in blasphemy against God by husbands, wives, and children, as well as by those around the church, who see God as either evil, irrelevant, or ineffective. The goal is to produce Christians who live in such a manner. To do so it will be necessary to emphasize aspects that are contradicted by local culture until people understand the difference.
Our Attitudes Indicate Our Spiritual State
Titus 1:15-2:1
Remember the how kids used to say it takes one to know one? People tend to assume others respond the same way they do. A person who lies tends to assume others lie. A thief is usually very careful about locking up his stuff. A person who is honest, on the other hand tends to be careless about locking up, because he doesn’t think as a thief or a liar. Paul says the same principle holds in spiritual matters.
“Unto the pure all things are pure: but unto them that are defiled and unbelieving is nothing pure; but even their mind and conscience is defiled. They profess that they know God; but in works they deny him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate.” (Titus 1:15-16)
Those with a pure heart and focus are not tempted by the evil around them. They approach things with no reservations because their focus is entirely on serving God, with the result they may not even be aware of what others find as a serious temptation.
Those who are not pure in heart, on the other hand are conscious of every potential temptation. In fact, they begin to see temptation and sin where none exists because their standards are corrupted by their own sin. Their corrupt ideas of right and wrong lead to actions that are actually opposed to biblical teaching.
Several years ago, I attended a state fellowship meeting in which one speaker devoted his entire message to the wickedness of a woman wearing open toed shoes because of the level of sexual arousal it produced in men. Having never been aroused by the sight of a woman’s toes, I found his presentation unhelpful.
Another pastor called for boycotting Walmart because the women’s underwear display was so provocative. Several men from the church asked what he’d been talking about. As it turned out, the display could not even be seen without going into the women’s department, and most of the men had not seen it. Even those who had had not been aware of any problem. Unfortunately, their minds were on it when they went back, and some were tempted.
Unscriptural standards and requirements often lead to more sin. Titus 1:14 warns against that such teachings turn people away. “Not giving heed to Jewish fables, and commandments of men, that turn from the truth.” Matthew 15:9 and Mark 7:7 both declare that “in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.”
Colossians 2:20-22 asks why we allow ourselves to be brought under such human requirements, rather than recognizing we are dead to sin. “Wherefore if ye be dead with Christ from the rudiments of the world, why, as though living in the world, are ye subject to ordinances, (Touch not; taste not; handle not; Which all are to perish with the using;) after the commandments and doctrines of men?
Many who struggle with impurity have never understood the principles of Romans 6-8. Romans 6:6-7 makes it clear we are free from the power of sin. “Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin. For he that is dead is freed from sin.”
Victory over sin is not a result of not committing sin or breaking a set of rules, but of realizing victory is a matter of his work in our life and yielding ourselves to him. It seems overly simplified, but it is what is required.
Romans 6:11 describes it very concisely. “Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord. Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof. Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God. For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace.”
Rather than teaching these human commandments, Titus is directed to focus on what is actually fitting for Christians. “But speak thou the things which become sound doctrine:” (Titus 2:1)
Remember the how kids used to say it takes one to know one? People tend to assume others respond the same way they do. A person who lies tends to assume others lie. A thief is usually very careful about locking up his stuff. A person who is honest, on the other hand tends to be careless about locking up, because he doesn’t think as a thief or a liar. Paul says the same principle holds in spiritual matters.
“Unto the pure all things are pure: but unto them that are defiled and unbelieving is nothing pure; but even their mind and conscience is defiled. They profess that they know God; but in works they deny him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate.” (Titus 1:15-16)
Those with a pure heart and focus are not tempted by the evil around them. They approach things with no reservations because their focus is entirely on serving God, with the result they may not even be aware of what others find as a serious temptation.
Those who are not pure in heart, on the other hand are conscious of every potential temptation. In fact, they begin to see temptation and sin where none exists because their standards are corrupted by their own sin. Their corrupt ideas of right and wrong lead to actions that are actually opposed to biblical teaching.
Several years ago, I attended a state fellowship meeting in which one speaker devoted his entire message to the wickedness of a woman wearing open toed shoes because of the level of sexual arousal it produced in men. Having never been aroused by the sight of a woman’s toes, I found his presentation unhelpful.
Another pastor called for boycotting Walmart because the women’s underwear display was so provocative. Several men from the church asked what he’d been talking about. As it turned out, the display could not even be seen without going into the women’s department, and most of the men had not seen it. Even those who had had not been aware of any problem. Unfortunately, their minds were on it when they went back, and some were tempted.
Unscriptural standards and requirements often lead to more sin. Titus 1:14 warns against that such teachings turn people away. “Not giving heed to Jewish fables, and commandments of men, that turn from the truth.” Matthew 15:9 and Mark 7:7 both declare that “in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.”
Colossians 2:20-22 asks why we allow ourselves to be brought under such human requirements, rather than recognizing we are dead to sin. “Wherefore if ye be dead with Christ from the rudiments of the world, why, as though living in the world, are ye subject to ordinances, (Touch not; taste not; handle not; Which all are to perish with the using;) after the commandments and doctrines of men?
Many who struggle with impurity have never understood the principles of Romans 6-8. Romans 6:6-7 makes it clear we are free from the power of sin. “Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin. For he that is dead is freed from sin.”
Victory over sin is not a result of not committing sin or breaking a set of rules, but of realizing victory is a matter of his work in our life and yielding ourselves to him. It seems overly simplified, but it is what is required.
Romans 6:11 describes it very concisely. “Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord. Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof. Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God. For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace.”
Rather than teaching these human commandments, Titus is directed to focus on what is actually fitting for Christians. “But speak thou the things which become sound doctrine:” (Titus 2:1)
Friday, February 19, 2010
The Importance of Mature Teaching
Titus 1:10-14
As a missionary or evangelist, Paul had gone to the Island of Crete and started several churches there. He had spent enough time there to give sound instruction in the Christian life and doctrine, even sometimes spending several years in a city if necessary. Though they had been taught by one of the very Apostles for such a length of time, the people were still relatively new Christians. As a result their assurance of what they believed was susceptible to other influences.
As a more solidly grounded Christian, Titus was left behind as Paul’s representative to help the churches deal with problems that arose, helping them to find qualified pastors, to identify false teachings, and correct improper or sinful practices. As the churches became larger and more recognized, they became more attractive to those who wished to capitalize on their influence or make a profit. They also fell under increased pressure to yield to local culture and minimize their doctrinal stance.
A major aspect of Titus’ job was to help select and train pastors who would persist in “Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers.” (Titus 1:9). It was vital he do so because of the number of people wishing to profit from taking over an established group.
“For there are many unruly and vain talkers and deceivers, specially they of the circumcision: Whose mouths must be stopped, who subvert whole houses, teaching things which they ought not, for filthy lucre's sake.” (Titus 1:10-11)
The problem is no less severe today. In almost fifty years as a missionary kid, church member, missionary and pastor, I have been amazed at the number of people who want to take over existing works. Several told my dad “Since you already know how to build a church, you should let us take over this one and go start a new one.” Others have offered to help out, then begun secretly teaching slightly different doctrine. Once they gain a sufficient following, they use the different doctrine to divide the church and either draw away a group or to take over and claim the church for themselves or their own group. By doing so, they are able to give the illusion of quickly building a church, establishing a reputation as greater missionaries than those who actually did the work. It enables them to raise far more financial support.
As missionaries for the BBFI, some of the worst were evangelists and missionaries whose main base were BBFI churches. In Paul’s day, the worst offenders were some of what are called Messianic Jews in our day. Technically, Paul, and all the Apostles were Messianic Jews. In Galatians, Paul deals with false doctrines that some of the other Messianic Jews were promoting. Many of the doctrines are developed to isolate the group so they can be controlled and produce benefit for the leader.
II Peter 2:1-3 warns that there will be such teachers in every group. “But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction. And many shall follow their pernicious ways; by reason of whom the way of truth shall be evil spoken of. And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you:”
Many of the messages of modern ‘evangelists,’ including the television evangelists is focused on raising money than on the truth of God’s word. By modifying the message, to distinguish oneself, people will give to one in preference to another. The message can be about the Lord’s return, or marriage, or anything else, as long as it creates an excuse to support the preacher.
The second reason Titus’ job was critical was cultural. There are good and bad aspects in every culture. Unfortunately, most who live in a culture have grown up with the attitudes and traditions with nothing to compare them to. As a result, they accept them as being right, and resist any change. Until churches and pastors are sufficiently well grounded in God’s word to recognize problems with their culture and change them for themselves, pressure from the surrounding culture may well result in turning away from obedience. Titus must address these issues among the Cretians.
“One of themselves, even a prophet of their own, said, The Cretians are alway liars, evil beasts, slow bellies. This witness is true. Wherefore rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith; Not giving heed to Jewish fables, and commandments of men, that turn from the truth.” (Titus 1:12-14)
The Cretian culture encouraged the attitudes and actions Paul describes, either by openly advocating them or by ignoring them, with the result that they have become the accepted practice. Not being familiar with their culture, I must examine cultures I am familiar with. there are a great many admirable aspects in Navajo culture, including an emphasis on loyalty and family that others would do well to emulate.
Their traditional attitude toward lying, on the other hand, is less admirable. Traditionally a lie wasn’t considered relevant until it had been told four times. After the fourth telling one was obligated to make it true. Other cultures viewed Navajos as systematic liars, similar to the way Paul describes the Creatians. To change that attitude about lying has required almost 100 years, and a great deal of teaching.
In modern American society, the casual attitude toward marriage and divorce is deeply ingrained. It is rooted in traditional false teachings about marriage. To change it to a truly Christian attitude will require consistent teaching of scriptural doctrine, and insistence on following the scripture exactly.
To establish a truly scriptural doctrine of marriage will require studying and developing a system capable of including almost 1200 verses relating to marriage and divorce in some way. Any verse which contradicts our basic doctrine indicates a flaw in our doctrine. Most will never study the subject adequately to identify errors in their own position, and will continue in it, assuming it is right. Others will recognize a problem and turn to another philosophy that deals with a particular problem, but never find out what the Bible actually teaches.
One such philosophy is that of the “born again virgin.” The theory is that if one who has indulged in sexual sin will abstain for a period of time, it will be as if they had never indulged. While it seems to address the problem of promiscuity, it is in contradiction to scriptural teaching.
In an attempt to resolve the number of divorces by changing dating and courtship practices, another philosophy has focused on the concept of defrauding found in I Thessalonians 4:1-7. It also runs afoul of scriptural doctrine about marriage.
To repeat what Paul said, “Wherefore rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith; Not giving heed to Jewish fables, and commandments of men, that turn from the truth.” (Titus 1:13b-14) Religious or cultural standards may be contrary to the truth.
As a missionary or evangelist, Paul had gone to the Island of Crete and started several churches there. He had spent enough time there to give sound instruction in the Christian life and doctrine, even sometimes spending several years in a city if necessary. Though they had been taught by one of the very Apostles for such a length of time, the people were still relatively new Christians. As a result their assurance of what they believed was susceptible to other influences.
As a more solidly grounded Christian, Titus was left behind as Paul’s representative to help the churches deal with problems that arose, helping them to find qualified pastors, to identify false teachings, and correct improper or sinful practices. As the churches became larger and more recognized, they became more attractive to those who wished to capitalize on their influence or make a profit. They also fell under increased pressure to yield to local culture and minimize their doctrinal stance.
A major aspect of Titus’ job was to help select and train pastors who would persist in “Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers.” (Titus 1:9). It was vital he do so because of the number of people wishing to profit from taking over an established group.
“For there are many unruly and vain talkers and deceivers, specially they of the circumcision: Whose mouths must be stopped, who subvert whole houses, teaching things which they ought not, for filthy lucre's sake.” (Titus 1:10-11)
The problem is no less severe today. In almost fifty years as a missionary kid, church member, missionary and pastor, I have been amazed at the number of people who want to take over existing works. Several told my dad “Since you already know how to build a church, you should let us take over this one and go start a new one.” Others have offered to help out, then begun secretly teaching slightly different doctrine. Once they gain a sufficient following, they use the different doctrine to divide the church and either draw away a group or to take over and claim the church for themselves or their own group. By doing so, they are able to give the illusion of quickly building a church, establishing a reputation as greater missionaries than those who actually did the work. It enables them to raise far more financial support.
As missionaries for the BBFI, some of the worst were evangelists and missionaries whose main base were BBFI churches. In Paul’s day, the worst offenders were some of what are called Messianic Jews in our day. Technically, Paul, and all the Apostles were Messianic Jews. In Galatians, Paul deals with false doctrines that some of the other Messianic Jews were promoting. Many of the doctrines are developed to isolate the group so they can be controlled and produce benefit for the leader.
II Peter 2:1-3 warns that there will be such teachers in every group. “But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction. And many shall follow their pernicious ways; by reason of whom the way of truth shall be evil spoken of. And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you:”
Many of the messages of modern ‘evangelists,’ including the television evangelists is focused on raising money than on the truth of God’s word. By modifying the message, to distinguish oneself, people will give to one in preference to another. The message can be about the Lord’s return, or marriage, or anything else, as long as it creates an excuse to support the preacher.
The second reason Titus’ job was critical was cultural. There are good and bad aspects in every culture. Unfortunately, most who live in a culture have grown up with the attitudes and traditions with nothing to compare them to. As a result, they accept them as being right, and resist any change. Until churches and pastors are sufficiently well grounded in God’s word to recognize problems with their culture and change them for themselves, pressure from the surrounding culture may well result in turning away from obedience. Titus must address these issues among the Cretians.
“One of themselves, even a prophet of their own, said, The Cretians are alway liars, evil beasts, slow bellies. This witness is true. Wherefore rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith; Not giving heed to Jewish fables, and commandments of men, that turn from the truth.” (Titus 1:12-14)
The Cretian culture encouraged the attitudes and actions Paul describes, either by openly advocating them or by ignoring them, with the result that they have become the accepted practice. Not being familiar with their culture, I must examine cultures I am familiar with. there are a great many admirable aspects in Navajo culture, including an emphasis on loyalty and family that others would do well to emulate.
Their traditional attitude toward lying, on the other hand, is less admirable. Traditionally a lie wasn’t considered relevant until it had been told four times. After the fourth telling one was obligated to make it true. Other cultures viewed Navajos as systematic liars, similar to the way Paul describes the Creatians. To change that attitude about lying has required almost 100 years, and a great deal of teaching.
In modern American society, the casual attitude toward marriage and divorce is deeply ingrained. It is rooted in traditional false teachings about marriage. To change it to a truly Christian attitude will require consistent teaching of scriptural doctrine, and insistence on following the scripture exactly.
To establish a truly scriptural doctrine of marriage will require studying and developing a system capable of including almost 1200 verses relating to marriage and divorce in some way. Any verse which contradicts our basic doctrine indicates a flaw in our doctrine. Most will never study the subject adequately to identify errors in their own position, and will continue in it, assuming it is right. Others will recognize a problem and turn to another philosophy that deals with a particular problem, but never find out what the Bible actually teaches.
One such philosophy is that of the “born again virgin.” The theory is that if one who has indulged in sexual sin will abstain for a period of time, it will be as if they had never indulged. While it seems to address the problem of promiscuity, it is in contradiction to scriptural teaching.
In an attempt to resolve the number of divorces by changing dating and courtship practices, another philosophy has focused on the concept of defrauding found in I Thessalonians 4:1-7. It also runs afoul of scriptural doctrine about marriage.
To repeat what Paul said, “Wherefore rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith; Not giving heed to Jewish fables, and commandments of men, that turn from the truth.” (Titus 1:13b-14) Religious or cultural standards may be contrary to the truth.
The Pastor’s Example
Titus 1:7-9
Many churches and religious organizations have some form of hierarchy consisting of bishops, pastors, elders, deacons, and lay people. Each level is superior to the one below it. Such a hierarchy is expressly forbidden in Matthew 20:25-28. “But Jesus called them unto him, and said, Ye know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them. But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister; And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant: Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.”
Here Paul directs Titus to ordain elders in every church , and describes things to be considered because “a bishop must be blameless, as the steward of God.” Clearly he relates elder and bishop as the same position or job. The term elder refers to those who are more spiritually mature, while bishop means ‘overseer’ or manager. The pastor or shepherd is the one responsible for particular group. The elders or pastors are specifically responsible for the spiritual care of the church. Their spiritual state is critical to their responsibilities.
The deacon is responsible for the physical activities of the church, such as finances, buildings and grounds, and charity. His spiritual qualifications are slightly less critical, but his moral and ethical standards are just as critical as those of the pastor. Paul does not address the requirements for deacons in this passage, as Titus is dealing with churches which are not yet large enough to require them. Legally, deacons would be called trustees.
Every Christian is an ambassador for Christ. The bishop or pastor is the overseer or steward responsible for training and guiding those under his authority. He must exemplify the traits every Christian is supposed to exhibit. Paul told Timothy he must set the example.
“For a bishop must be blameless, as the steward of God; not selfwilled, not soon angry, not given to wine, no striker, not given to filthy lucre; But a lover of hospitality, a lover of good men, sober, just, holy, temperate; Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers.” (Titus 1:7-9)
The pastor is to set an example in several things. First, there are several things he must avoid. He must not be selfwilled, not demanding his own way. He is to put other’s desires ahead of his own. He must not be quick tempered, “not soon angry.” Ephesians 4:31 directs Christians, “Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice:”
Alcoholic consumption is not something he habitually does, he is “not given to wine”. He is not just not an alcoholic, he doesn’t find it necessary to have a glass of wine regularly. He is not to be violent, a “striker” especially in trying to get his own way. I Timothy 5:22 instructs, “Lay hands suddenly on no man,” Money is not to be a major issue in his life. He is “not given to filthy lucre.” He is able to trust God rather than his bank balance.
Secondly, there are some characteristics that should be found in his life. He must be “a lover of hospitality,” loving to have guests, enjoying close personal contact with people. Christians are to be hospitable to one another according to I Peter 4:7-9 and Romans 12:10-13. The pastor should excel in this. People should be and feel welcome in his home.
He must also be “a lover of good men.” The old saying, “birds of a feather flock together” is valid. People tend to associate with others who have similar attitudes. He ought to love to associate with men who are good in the biblical sense, not just “good ole boys.” Our associations refine our attitudes. Proverbs 27:17 describes the effect of our friendships. “Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend.”
He must be a thoughtful and serious or “sober,” if he is to obey Ephesians 5:15-16. “See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.”
He must be “just” or fair, not playing favorites. In I Timothy 5:21 Paul says, “I charge thee before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, and the elect angels, that thou observe these things without preferring one before another, doing nothing by partiality.”
Christians are to be holy or godly in their lifestyle. I Peter 1:15-16 instructs, “But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.” The pastor is to set the example.
Temperance or self control ought to typify the pastor’s life in every area. He should be able to control his eating, his temper, his spending. Paul set such an example in I Corinthians 9:27. “But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway.” Like most of these positive traits, temperance is part of the fruit of the spirit.
Finally the pastor must have a strong grasp of and respect for the word of God. II Timothy 3:16-17 states that the scriptures provide everything needed to accomplish the ministry. “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.” By careful study he will be able to counteract and correct erroneous teaching according to Titus 1:9. “Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers.” To develop doctrine sound enough to do so, study will be required as II Timothy 2:15 instructs. “Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.”
Many churches and religious organizations have some form of hierarchy consisting of bishops, pastors, elders, deacons, and lay people. Each level is superior to the one below it. Such a hierarchy is expressly forbidden in Matthew 20:25-28. “But Jesus called them unto him, and said, Ye know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them. But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister; And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant: Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.”
Here Paul directs Titus to ordain elders in every church , and describes things to be considered because “a bishop must be blameless, as the steward of God.” Clearly he relates elder and bishop as the same position or job. The term elder refers to those who are more spiritually mature, while bishop means ‘overseer’ or manager. The pastor or shepherd is the one responsible for particular group. The elders or pastors are specifically responsible for the spiritual care of the church. Their spiritual state is critical to their responsibilities.
The deacon is responsible for the physical activities of the church, such as finances, buildings and grounds, and charity. His spiritual qualifications are slightly less critical, but his moral and ethical standards are just as critical as those of the pastor. Paul does not address the requirements for deacons in this passage, as Titus is dealing with churches which are not yet large enough to require them. Legally, deacons would be called trustees.
Every Christian is an ambassador for Christ. The bishop or pastor is the overseer or steward responsible for training and guiding those under his authority. He must exemplify the traits every Christian is supposed to exhibit. Paul told Timothy he must set the example.
“For a bishop must be blameless, as the steward of God; not selfwilled, not soon angry, not given to wine, no striker, not given to filthy lucre; But a lover of hospitality, a lover of good men, sober, just, holy, temperate; Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers.” (Titus 1:7-9)
The pastor is to set an example in several things. First, there are several things he must avoid. He must not be selfwilled, not demanding his own way. He is to put other’s desires ahead of his own. He must not be quick tempered, “not soon angry.” Ephesians 4:31 directs Christians, “Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice:”
Alcoholic consumption is not something he habitually does, he is “not given to wine”. He is not just not an alcoholic, he doesn’t find it necessary to have a glass of wine regularly. He is not to be violent, a “striker” especially in trying to get his own way. I Timothy 5:22 instructs, “Lay hands suddenly on no man,” Money is not to be a major issue in his life. He is “not given to filthy lucre.” He is able to trust God rather than his bank balance.
Secondly, there are some characteristics that should be found in his life. He must be “a lover of hospitality,” loving to have guests, enjoying close personal contact with people. Christians are to be hospitable to one another according to I Peter 4:7-9 and Romans 12:10-13. The pastor should excel in this. People should be and feel welcome in his home.
He must also be “a lover of good men.” The old saying, “birds of a feather flock together” is valid. People tend to associate with others who have similar attitudes. He ought to love to associate with men who are good in the biblical sense, not just “good ole boys.” Our associations refine our attitudes. Proverbs 27:17 describes the effect of our friendships. “Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend.”
He must be a thoughtful and serious or “sober,” if he is to obey Ephesians 5:15-16. “See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.”
He must be “just” or fair, not playing favorites. In I Timothy 5:21 Paul says, “I charge thee before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, and the elect angels, that thou observe these things without preferring one before another, doing nothing by partiality.”
Christians are to be holy or godly in their lifestyle. I Peter 1:15-16 instructs, “But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.” The pastor is to set the example.
Temperance or self control ought to typify the pastor’s life in every area. He should be able to control his eating, his temper, his spending. Paul set such an example in I Corinthians 9:27. “But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway.” Like most of these positive traits, temperance is part of the fruit of the spirit.
Finally the pastor must have a strong grasp of and respect for the word of God. II Timothy 3:16-17 states that the scriptures provide everything needed to accomplish the ministry. “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.” By careful study he will be able to counteract and correct erroneous teaching according to Titus 1:9. “Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers.” To develop doctrine sound enough to do so, study will be required as II Timothy 2:15 instructs. “Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.”
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Identifying Potential Leaders
Titus 1:5-6
Paul had left Timothy at the city of Ephesus to prevent the teaching of false doctrine and to pastor the church. Titus has a somewhat different job. He is to work with the churches on the island of Crete, training them how to function properly, and helping them to choose qualified pastors for every church. Paul states Titus’ job description quite succinctly. The rest of the book is devoted to explaining how to accomplish it.
“For this cause left I thee in Crete, that thou shouldest set in order the things that are wanting, and ordain elders in every city, as I had appointed thee: If any be blameless, the husband of one wife, having faithful children not accused of riot or unruly.” (Titus 1:5-6)
In addition to correcting things that are not right Titus is to “ordain” elders in every city. To ordain means ‘to choose, to elect, or to appoint’. To be considered, a man must have a reputation for ethical behavior, demonstrate a sound moral standard, and have the respect and trust of his children.
Accusations of ethical misbehavior, multiple marriages, and rebellious children indicate a man who has not shown a consistent Godly life. There is an old saying, “where there’s smoke, there’s fire.” Accusations of unethical behavior indicate a questionable attitude toward right and wrong. A business man who has several complaints about his business practices should not be considered.
I Corinthians 7:1-7 describes the marriage as a protection from fornication, but stresses that some men do not require it to stay pure. If a man can stay pure without marriage, he has an advantage of freedom in serving Christ according to I Corinthians 7:32-38. Matthew 19:9 and Luke 16:18 both stress that divorce and remarriage, on the other hand are adultery. I Corinthians 7:10-13 make it clear that a person who separates is to remain unmarried or reunite with their mate, not to find someone else. Multiple marriages may well indicate an unsound moral character, even though there are no allegations of sexual impropriety.
Rebellious children indicate a man who has not demonstrated a life that his children want to emulate. As I Timothy 3:5 asks, “(For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?)” The attitudes and actions of the children away from home indicate the home life of their parents.
Failure to examine the ethical area carefully, led to one church hiring a contractor who had been sued for failure to complete jobs after being paid for them. He took advantage of the church’s trust, buying extra materials to remodel the church, then selling them and pocketing the money. He supported another man in the church who was accused of not properly completing jobs, finally resulting in the second man being sued and losing his license.
Failure to carefully examine the moral implications of marriage led to hiring a man who had been promiscuous before marriage. He later told the church that they should not expect single men to remain sexually pure. Although he had only one wife legally, I Corinthians 6:16 implies that he did not qualify. Sexual promiscuity among the teen age boys became a real problem.
A failure to examine the attitudes of his children led one church to select a pastor who was later shown to be sexually molesting his daughters. Another was physically abusive, while a third was discovered to be an alcoholic. Simply examining these areas would have indicated some underlying attitudes that were potential problems.
Paul had left Timothy at the city of Ephesus to prevent the teaching of false doctrine and to pastor the church. Titus has a somewhat different job. He is to work with the churches on the island of Crete, training them how to function properly, and helping them to choose qualified pastors for every church. Paul states Titus’ job description quite succinctly. The rest of the book is devoted to explaining how to accomplish it.
“For this cause left I thee in Crete, that thou shouldest set in order the things that are wanting, and ordain elders in every city, as I had appointed thee: If any be blameless, the husband of one wife, having faithful children not accused of riot or unruly.” (Titus 1:5-6)
In addition to correcting things that are not right Titus is to “ordain” elders in every city. To ordain means ‘to choose, to elect, or to appoint’. To be considered, a man must have a reputation for ethical behavior, demonstrate a sound moral standard, and have the respect and trust of his children.
Accusations of ethical misbehavior, multiple marriages, and rebellious children indicate a man who has not shown a consistent Godly life. There is an old saying, “where there’s smoke, there’s fire.” Accusations of unethical behavior indicate a questionable attitude toward right and wrong. A business man who has several complaints about his business practices should not be considered.
I Corinthians 7:1-7 describes the marriage as a protection from fornication, but stresses that some men do not require it to stay pure. If a man can stay pure without marriage, he has an advantage of freedom in serving Christ according to I Corinthians 7:32-38. Matthew 19:9 and Luke 16:18 both stress that divorce and remarriage, on the other hand are adultery. I Corinthians 7:10-13 make it clear that a person who separates is to remain unmarried or reunite with their mate, not to find someone else. Multiple marriages may well indicate an unsound moral character, even though there are no allegations of sexual impropriety.
Rebellious children indicate a man who has not demonstrated a life that his children want to emulate. As I Timothy 3:5 asks, “(For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?)” The attitudes and actions of the children away from home indicate the home life of their parents.
Failure to examine the ethical area carefully, led to one church hiring a contractor who had been sued for failure to complete jobs after being paid for them. He took advantage of the church’s trust, buying extra materials to remodel the church, then selling them and pocketing the money. He supported another man in the church who was accused of not properly completing jobs, finally resulting in the second man being sued and losing his license.
Failure to carefully examine the moral implications of marriage led to hiring a man who had been promiscuous before marriage. He later told the church that they should not expect single men to remain sexually pure. Although he had only one wife legally, I Corinthians 6:16 implies that he did not qualify. Sexual promiscuity among the teen age boys became a real problem.
A failure to examine the attitudes of his children led one church to select a pastor who was later shown to be sexually molesting his daughters. Another was physically abusive, while a third was discovered to be an alcoholic. Simply examining these areas would have indicated some underlying attitudes that were potential problems.
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Introduction to Titus
Titus 1:1-4
Like I and II Timothy, Titus is written to help a young man understand what he needs to do as a minister of the Gospel. There are many similarities, but each has a particular purpose. II Timothy focuses on how to prepare for the ministry, by study of the Word of God and spiritual development. I Timothy deals with the practical aspects of how to behave in the church, as relating to one another, and setting examples for our students. It is focused on the goals for all churches to strive toward.
Titus stresses the idea that in different areas, we may need to adjust our methods to produce the same results. Differences in culture and history tend to cause different priorities and attitudes, some of which are counter to the Gospel of Christ. Bringing people to where Christ wants them will require dealing with such difference. As a result, lessons, messages, or programs prepared for one area may not be particularly relevant in another.
In a basket ball game, playing against a small fast team is different than playing against a team whose shortest player is 6’10”. The strategy has to be adapted to the situation. The basics of shooting’ passing and dribbling do not change, but how they are applied does. Building a church, the message does not change, nor does the goal, but sometimes it is necessary to change our strategy to produce the desired results. Titus focuses in this concept of changing strategy to fit the situation without changing the doctrine.
Paul starts by introducing himself, and stating the basis of his qualifications. His basis is the same hope as that of everyone else. It is dependent on God’s truthfulness, and depends on accepting his statements and acknowledging his truth. God’s plan was established before the creation of the world, although many details were not revealed fully to man until the time of Christ. It is the responsibility of Paul, and every minister to spread that message.
“Paul, a servant of God, and an apostle of Jesus Christ, according to the faith of God's elect, and the acknowledging of the truth which is after godliness; In hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began; But hath in due times manifested his word through preaching, which is committed unto me according to the commandment of God our Saviour; To Titus, mine own son after the common faith: Grace, mercy, and peace, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ our Saviour.” (Titus 1:1-4)
The book is written to Titus, one of Paul’s converts. He was a gentile, who had been associated with Paul since at least Acts 15 according to Galatians 2:23, and possibly earlier. His salvation, his faith is the same faith as everyone else’s. His salvation, his forgiveness, and his peace and confidence are all from God.
Like I and II Timothy, Titus is written to help a young man understand what he needs to do as a minister of the Gospel. There are many similarities, but each has a particular purpose. II Timothy focuses on how to prepare for the ministry, by study of the Word of God and spiritual development. I Timothy deals with the practical aspects of how to behave in the church, as relating to one another, and setting examples for our students. It is focused on the goals for all churches to strive toward.
Titus stresses the idea that in different areas, we may need to adjust our methods to produce the same results. Differences in culture and history tend to cause different priorities and attitudes, some of which are counter to the Gospel of Christ. Bringing people to where Christ wants them will require dealing with such difference. As a result, lessons, messages, or programs prepared for one area may not be particularly relevant in another.
In a basket ball game, playing against a small fast team is different than playing against a team whose shortest player is 6’10”. The strategy has to be adapted to the situation. The basics of shooting’ passing and dribbling do not change, but how they are applied does. Building a church, the message does not change, nor does the goal, but sometimes it is necessary to change our strategy to produce the desired results. Titus focuses in this concept of changing strategy to fit the situation without changing the doctrine.
Paul starts by introducing himself, and stating the basis of his qualifications. His basis is the same hope as that of everyone else. It is dependent on God’s truthfulness, and depends on accepting his statements and acknowledging his truth. God’s plan was established before the creation of the world, although many details were not revealed fully to man until the time of Christ. It is the responsibility of Paul, and every minister to spread that message.
“Paul, a servant of God, and an apostle of Jesus Christ, according to the faith of God's elect, and the acknowledging of the truth which is after godliness; In hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began; But hath in due times manifested his word through preaching, which is committed unto me according to the commandment of God our Saviour; To Titus, mine own son after the common faith: Grace, mercy, and peace, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ our Saviour.” (Titus 1:1-4)
The book is written to Titus, one of Paul’s converts. He was a gentile, who had been associated with Paul since at least Acts 15 according to Galatians 2:23, and possibly earlier. His salvation, his faith is the same faith as everyone else’s. His salvation, his forgiveness, and his peace and confidence are all from God.
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