- Titus: Be Different
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Devotion provided by Summit Church
Paul’s main concern for Titus was “The Truth that leads to Godliness.” This theme is present throughout the book of Titus. Chapter three opens with a short series of exhortations that describe how Christians should interact with the world around them. While at first glance these actions (Such as being kind and showing gentleness) seem obvious as descriptions of Christian behavior, but with any examination of our lives we see that our human nature is constantly pushing us toward the opposite. It is because of this tension that Titus is told to continually remind the believers of these newly formed churches that if they are not devoted to the new life they will fall back into the patterns of the old life.
Paul not only tells Titus how the people should live, but also why this type of gentle forgiveness is necessary. It is often easy to see anyone who disagrees with us as an enemy. (Have you read the comments section recently on YouTube?) Paul reminds us in this letter that no matter how much patience or grace we are forced to show to those who oppose us it is but a fraction of what God has shown us when we were incapable of honoring him first. With sound teaching and a process for continual devotion in place Paul is confident that Titus will be able to establish churches on the island of Crete. This formula is no different for us today. Gospel truth leads to Godliness.
1. This week’s sermon dealt heavily with the sinfulness of human nature, and the newness of a heart changed by grace. Are either of these things hard for you to accept as a functional reality? Why or why not?
2. Were there any other parts of the sermon that stood out to you?
In Christ,
Pastor Phil