Titus 2:1-10

Titus 2:1-10

This passage is so rich in unique and powerful words that it would be tempting to spend all our time looking at the words in detail for and descriptions of disciples. But we lack the space to do such an approach justice. So we must take a general overview. We must not fail to notice the important link between good teaching and the behavior or conduct of the disciple community. Paul links carefully sound doctrine with how disciples are to live. The teaching of the doctrine in the church will profoundly shape the daily practice of those who live in the faith community. It works itself out this way: “This is true, which will cause us to act in this way.” The connection between biblical truth and behavior must not be lost.

One of the attacks on Paul is that he relegates women to second-class roles and is opposed to women's rights and liberation. Those who make such assertions against Paul and scripture simply demonstrate their own deep ignorance of the cultural situation and what scripture actually says. In all the directions that Paul provides for the various groups of people, he is building for a grown expression and better life in every aspect of living. Nothing lifts up an individual or community as quickly as the harmonious life and holy living that Paul advocates. Paul presents a liberation of everyone, not by conflict and rebellion, but by profoundly beautiful development of character.

We must never forget that character matters. Paul did not provide for us a list of rules to be obeyed but rather descriptions of a deeper set of character traits that express themselves in behavior. The watching world notices character and its associated behavior. When disciples err in their behavior, it gives their opposition reason to say bad things about the gospel. And we make the task of making disciples more difficult. It is by both word and deed that we preach Christ.

“Lord, help me to proclaim Your message by what I say and what I do. AMEN”