Titus 1
by Philip Layton
Paul writes to Titus with instructions to maintain sound doctrinal teaching
Discussion Questions
- Regardless of whether you consider yourself an ‘elder’ or not – could this passage (vv 6-9) describe you?
- In what way do you think Titus was expected to ‘silence’ the false teachers (v 11)?
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Going Deeper From 'Words of Life'
Titus – My Partnership in Mission
Paul was my spiritual mentor, having led me to the Lord. My life was transformed. I was willing to do anything for Christ – to help expand the mission, telling others of his saving grace. Lots of things happened from then on.
At first I was sent to Corinth, and I believe God used me there – to help with the various difficulties in that newly-established church.
Then, after Paul was released from his first imprisonment in Rome, he took Timothy and me to Crete. Paul then had to leave, sending Timothy to Ephesus and leaving me to carry on with the mission. I needed to find new church leaders who were well versed in doctrine. Also, I needed to help the new believers learn how to control themselves in their new Christian lifestyle. Paul wrote to me while there, wanting me to straighten out what was left unfinished. I was more than pleased to do so.
Sometimes it’s easier to work under a strong leader like Paul. To simply be a follower, for the cause. But then sometimes God wants to stretch us – to take up leadership ourselves. It calls for an utter dependence on the Holy Spirit. We’re all partners in the one mission, with one message, as one Army or church. We must be ready for whatever task God has for us to do.
The Cretans didn’t have a great reputation. In fact, the word on the street was this: to ‘play the Cretan’ meant to lie. So, there was lots of work to be done!
Paul entrusted this mission to me. I wouldn’t let him down. I wasn’t going to let God down!
No matter what mission God has for us, let’s go for it! No matter what stage we’re at in life, we’re to minister with integrity – to do what’s asked of us with joy in our heart. All for Jesus! In Heaven, I hope to meet up with many Cretans.
In Heaven, I trust you’ll also meet up with many people influenced by your faithful, ongoing ministry!
Beverly Ivany
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