In the previous chapters of his letter to Titus Paul addresses the importance of the qualities and character of church leadership and dealing effectively with those who transgress in the Church. He further lists the moral standards by which all, young and old should conduct themselves as representatives of Jesus and His church. As Paul wraps up his letter to Titus here in chapter 3 he applies the teachings he gave in chapters 1 and 2 by encouraging Christians in the Church to live separately from the immoral culture that was prevalent in Crete. Paul contrasts seven worthy behaviours (v.1-2) with seven sins (v.3) associated with unbelief and unworthy for anyone who professes to believe in Jesus as Lord to display. These are a reminder of what had already been taught and not a new set of instructions.

I believe we all have an inbuilt understanding of what is right and what is wrong and a conscience that reminds us when we step out of line. It is the devil who tempts us to stray from the true path and live lives of disobedience seeking passions and pleasures in life incompatible with our faith in Jesus. It is the Holy Spirit who draws us back to God by revealing the sin in our lives. Paul goes on to explain that our salvation is entirely on the basis of the grace and mercy of God. When we say yes to Jesus and commit our lives to Him we experience a spiritual cleansing, a regeneration through which we receive the gift of the Holy Spirit as a result of God’s generosity and grace. Paul instructs Titus to emphasise these basic principles for Christian living, in fact to insist on them (V.8). Paul also lists four activities to avoid - pointless debate, arguments over genealogy, quarrels and debates over the Law of Moses as they are unprofitable, worthless and a waste of time. Paul’s conclusion is one of greetings of love from fellow believers and his desire to meet up with Titus in Nicopolis where he plans to spend the winter months.

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Questions:

We are told that we now live in a post Christian society. When you are challenged by temptations to follow passions and desires incompatible with your faith by those whose influence comes from the devil, how do you respond? Are you able to avoid pointless debate and arguments that would compromise your faith whilst standing your ground?

Prayer:

Lord God thank you for your grace and mercy. Thank you for Jesus and His redeeming love. Help me I pray not to fall into temptation but to live a life worthy to be called your son/daughter and be an example to those whom I hope and pray for every day that they too will acknowledge you as Lord. Amen.