It becomes perfectly clear why Paul laid out such a high standard for church leaders in chapter 1, they have to speak into the lives of all the faithful. Paul gives Titus clear instruction on the kinds of things to speak into the lives of older men and women and younger men and women, free and slave alike.
Faith in Jesus touches every human station in life. Different stations have different pressures and pitfalls. Paul directs Titus to speak truth to the heart of the matter which includes a broad spectrum of people in the church.
I am struck by how practical and behavior oriented Paul’s directives are. People who think Christianity is only about what a person believes will be shocked at Paul’s clear words in this chapter. Absolutely, believing the truth in Scripture is critical, but according to Paul (and Jesus and the New Testament, for that matter) belief goes hand in glove with action, living, deeds.
I am reminded of the greatest commandment: to love God with heart, soul, mind and strength and love neighbor as self… belief and living!!!
Lord, today help me to live in such a way as my faith in You is visible… plainly visible. Amen.
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