A simple study on love shows that it is the chief mark of grace or evidence of conversion. It is communicated at conversion, uniquely unites us to Christ, and assures of eternal life. Here is how it may fade, and how it should be revived.

'And he began again to teach by the sea side: and there was gathered unto him a great multitude, so that he entered into a ship, and sat in the sea; and the whole multitude was by the sea on the land.'

The Three Persons of the Godhead are named in this verse, leading us to marvel at the glory of God and His electing love, secondly to see the work of the Spirit in saving and sanctifying, and thirdly how Christ accomplished redemption.

In closing this most practical epistle the apostle lists tendencies that ruin the vital objective of a church, and those that ruin fellowship. He then urges every working believer to support the work of God. Here also is the meaning of 'grace' being with us.

The lifestyle that adorns and commends the Gospel induces here obedience to the civil authorities, the only exception being if God's laws are contravened. Here also are the standards of conduct towards unbelievers generally, and the Gospel doctrines such conduct authenticates and commends.

The Apostle emphasises the duty of looking for Christ's return, and here is how this should be done. He then provides aspects of Christ's work to reflect on, urges a sacrificial attitude with fervour for good works, and summarises the work of pastors toward believers.

Titus is to be a model of right conduct (speech, actions, possessions, dress) and never accommodate in teaching error, irreverence or entertainment. Words such as gravity (dignity) and sincerity stand out. Here is the believers' deportment.

While possessing much great potential, energy and capacity to learn, young men are vulnerable to many wrong steps. Here is biblical counsel, including treatment of so-called 'intentionality' in courtship - so contrary to major principles of Scripture and potentially deeply harmful.

Here are behavioural goals for older women. First, deportment in dress, speech and actions, the things to avoid. Also, they must show the young women by example and advice safe-minding, love for family, self-control, purity, home management, kindness and honouring of their husbands' role.

'But speak thou the things which become sound doctrine: That the aged men be sober, grave, temperate, sound in faith, in charity, in patience.'