October 28
Titus 1
Today's Reading
Titus 1
Reflection
Pray: "Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of your law."
Intro to Titus:
Titus was a Greek Gentile who was led to the Lord under Paul's ministry. He began to travel with Paul on his missionary journeys, and Paul trusted him with many responsibilities. While unsure of the timing, Paul and Titus had been to the island of Crete at some point in their journeys. When Paul left Crete, he instructed Titus to stay so that he could help the church, as it was disorganized and struggling with false teaching. Also, according to chapter 1 verse 12, Crete was a city known for being "liars, evil beasts, and lazy gluttons." This was a very difficult and hostile place to plant a church, but Paul knew the power of the Holy Spirit to raise up believers even in the direst of places. In this letter to Titus, Paul will stress the necessity of order in the church and the Christian life. They are to be set apart from the Cretans and not live a selfish disorder life, but a life of order and godliness so that others would come to know the Lord.
- 1
What do you learn about God (the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) from this chapter? His thoughts, ways, or actions toward us, as His creation? How can you respond to God in prayer and praise?
- 2
In verses 1-4, in Paul's greeting to Titus, he lists some reasons he is a servant of God and an apostle of Christ; what are his reasons? Why did Paul state, "God, who never lies," as part of his greeting? Hint: read 2:12.
- 3
According to verse 5, why did Paul leave Titus in Crete?
- 4
In verses 6-9, Paul lays out the qualifications for the elders Titus is to appoint in the church of Crete. Slowly read the list of qualifications. Ponder: As you consider our Grace Point elders, how can this list guide you as you pray for your elders?
- 5
In verses 10-16, Paul gives a harsh warning about the false teachers and describes them as those who are "insubordinate, empty talkers, and deceivers, especially those of the circumcision party." Why does Paul say they must be silenced? How should they be rebuked and for what reason? According to verse 16, why are they detestable, disobedient, and unfit for any good work?
- 6
Ponder: There are many false teachers in our day, as there were in Paul's. We are called to guard against them just as Paul called Titus to do. Do you find yourself evaluating what you listen to or who you read? False teachers can use subtle deceptions, but the more we know the Truth of God's word the more discerning we can become. If you have doubts about a teacher you see online or read, ask one of our elders to help you discern the truth from the lie.