week 20 day 1

Read Titus 2
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Titus%202&version=NIV
2:1–2 This section details the elements that are necessary to sound teaching (2:1). Character and behavior are the object of the teaching (cf. 1 Tim. 1:5). In contrast with the conduct of the false teachers, Paul insisted that the gospel must be graced with a godly life. The command “teach what is in accordance with sound doctrine” (2:1) is continuous and could be rendered, Keep on teaching. The virtues of 2:2 are appropriate for all Christians but are especially important for older men who are naturally looked to as leaders in the church whether or not they hold office.

2:3–The older women are to be teachers of younger women, a task that mature Christian women are admirably suited for (2:3–5). The general character of godly women is stated first, then is followed by specific illustrations. Paul not only gave the mature Christian women the responsibility to teach, he also assigned a specific curriculum (2:4–5). In 2:5 the wife and mother has her primary sphere of responsibility in the home. Yet Proverbs 31:10–31 indicates that the home is not necessarily the limit of her sphere of activity.

2:6–8 Paul’s request that the conduct of the young men be exemplary was intended to quiet any criticism or attacks from outside the church (2:6–8). Paul emphasized the need, in the face of false teachers and others who desired to give Christianity a bad name, to be self-controlled (2:2, 5–6, 12).

2:9–10 For a note on slavery, see Ephesians 6:5–9. Paul insisted that even the lowest slave of the Roman social order could adorn God’s truth by manifesting Christian character in keeping with his confession. The servant was to make God as Savior look good in the real and present world.

2:11–15 The grace that saves believers (Titus 2:11) and instructs them (2:12) also gives them hope for the future (2:13). Grace as an instructor is seen throughout Scripture (Deut. 8:5; Prov. 1:2; 3:11–12 quoted in Heb. 12:4–7; Eph. 6:4; 2 Tim. 2:25; 3:16). The provision of salvation has been presented to all and is effective for all who believe. This is a universal provision (John 3:16; 2 Cor. 5:19), not a universal salvation. The “blessed hope” and the “glorious appearing” are one event (2:13)—the coming of the Lord Jesus for his church.

Paul’s combination of Old Testament truths in 2:14 relates Christ to cleansing (Ezek. 37:23) and redemption (Ps. 130:8; cf. Mark 10:45 and Exod. 19:5–6). The imperatives of Titus 2:15 are in the present tense, “encourage and rebuke.” Titus’s authority was in accord with God’s purpose in sending Christ.

Discussion & reflection question

Paul commands the “older” men and women to mentor younger men and women. This is something we should all do as adults no matter what age we are. Are you mentoring someone? If so, share your thoughts about it. If not, did this chapter convict you to do so?