Titus 1-3

January 15, 2008
Titus 1-3




What was Titus to do in Crete? What are the guidelines he is to apply?

In Crete, Titus was to appoint elders to all the churches. The word "elder" is used to mean Bishop, or overseer. It appears that these were to be preachers. Note that they weren’t voted on, but appointed. The guidelines Paul give to Titus include, they must be blameless, married to only one wife, their children must be believers, not quick tempered, nit given to drunkenness, or violence. Instead, he must be hospitable, love what is good, self-controlled, upright, holy, & disciplined. He must hold the trustworthy message so he may encourage others with sound doctrine and refute those who oppose it.

How does the grace of God train us to live our lives?

Rather than being a crutch that encourages us to sin, grace teaches us to say no to ungodliness and worldly passions. And, to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, sa we wait for the coming of Jesus. Not here that the qualifications for elder are very similar to the characteristics that all Christians should have. There is no double standard.

To what does the water of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit refer?

The water of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit refers to the grace of salvation and eternal life offered by God.