Titus, a Gentile convert of Paul, and over the years a trusted and effective prototype pastor in different postings, receives in Crete a letter for churches throughout time on the conduct of personal and church life. A truly pastoral epistle to lift and advance the spiritual life.

Life is a search for dependable things in an unreliable world. Apart from wilful lies there are countless mistaken ideas, half-truths, empty promises, excuses and exaggerations, not to mention gossip and slander. Here the truthfulness of God is presented and His solid promises to all who come to Him.

What is truth? Whether the meaning and purpose of life, or the uttering of truthful words? Why do people lie, while God never does? Here is how we may be certain that God's Word is true, with His call to seek and find Him. You May Be Also Interested in… Sermon: Finding…

Paul unfolds the assignment of Titus in Crete, the ordering of churches with a non-hierarchical leadership, each one having its own elders. Here are their qualifications, some relating to the preaching of the Word, and some intended also for all believers.

We learn that apparent believers enter churches bringing unbiblical activities. Some may be reformable, but their ideas must be refuted, or Christians will be damaged. Here is the authority of Scripture. Here also is the shamefulness of those who make money out of the faith.

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

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.

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.

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.

A seemingly unusual but crucial concept given by Paul in this passage is that grace disciplines and trains. Here is how, with the apostle's remarkable summary of the believer's aim and objectives in this present world, as they look eagerly for the Lord's return. Full chapter _____________ Titus 2 But…

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.

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 commands subjection to ruling authorities and forbids slander of them or others. He reviews our past lives, and gives a 14 point overview of God's mighty work within us, moving us to work for the salvation of others. Full chapter _____________ Titus 3 Put them in mind to…

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.