You can read the verses around this Bible passage from the Internet Bible: - in English, and many other languages
Paul had set Titus a difficult task: to teach the gospel and disciple new converts into a very different lifestyle - one which pleased the Lord Jesus. But he knew that human nature is always resistant to change, especially when wrong behaviour patterns had been part of their lives for so long, even embedded in national characteristics and condoned by the contemporary society. Nevertheless, the only way to establish churches in Christ was to teach people what pleased the Lord, and encourage them to change from ungodly ways.
However, first of all, Titus was to encourage everything he saw which was godly in character and behaviour. As people had their hearts changed by the grace of God, and as they started to respond to the Holy Spirit, it was important for Titus to encourage the new converts - because the world around them would certainly wish to discourage them. On the other hand, some bad habits would linger on: so when people were persistent in defying the gospel teaching, Titus was to rebuke them. Paul knew it would not be easy, but he delegated authority so that Titus knew he was not speaking on his own account but on behalf of the Lord Himself. Nevertheless, there would be some people who would resist the teaching, and despise the teacher, speaking badly about him in private and public. Titus had Paul's authority to expose such rebellious people in the church, so that all would know that they should not follow Jesus on their own terms, but only in accordance with the apostolic teaching.
In the same way today all those who minister the gospel, including those who lead congregations, should have full confidence in the authority of the Bible - so that they can confidently speak with God's authority. Those who are frightened of what people will think, or worried about being rejected, cannot be effective gospel ministers making disciples of Jesus Christ. So we should all pray for those who speak God's Word, to be courageous and selfless allowing the powerful message to come through their lips with God's authority. If you are such a minister then seek out all those who are learning to change their lifestyle, and encourage them. Keep teaching the others, and those who resist or even despise you should be rebuked firmly but in love.
Prayer: Dear Lord. Thank You that Your Word is true. I particularly pray for all those who have the responsibility for teaching, that they will not fear anybody; but will encourage what is right, teach what is true and rebuke what is rebellious in the strength which You give. I am sorry when I have not prayed for them or have resisted Your call, through them, to change the way I live. Please help me to be submissive and obedient to Your Word through Your servants. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
0 comments:
Post a Comment
Leave your comment below