Sunday 1 October, 2017

2 But what you teach must agree with true teaching. 2 Tell the older men that in anything they do, they must not go too far. They must be worthy of respect. They must control themselves. They must have true faith. They must love others. They must not give up. 3 In the same way, teach the older women to lead a holy life. They must not tell lies about others. They must not let wine control them. Instead, they must teach what is good. 4 Then they can advise the younger women to love their husbands and children. 5 The younger women must control themselves and be pure. They must take good care of their homes. They must be kind. They must follow the lead of their husbands. Then no one will be able to speak evil things against God’s word.

The letter Titus, written by Paul to Titus, is an instructive letter about how he should go about discipling those in his church. In the previous chapter Paul has given many examples of how wrong teaching and wrong living has turned people away from the faith. At the beginning of chapter 2 Titus is told to “promote the kind of living that reflects right teaching”. What kind of living is right? What draws people to the faith?

In verses 2-5 Paul addresses particular groups of people in Titus’ church, divided by age and sex. These groups each seem to need slightly different behaviours emphasised. I don’t think we can generalise these groups to today. Nor do I think that would be helpful. But I do think the main principles outlined here are important for all of us, and I know I definitely need to improve/change in some of these areas.

This is the list of behaviours/ ways to live encouraged by Paul:

• We are to try to live wisely and respectfully. Strengthen our faith with love and patience.
• Speak well of others
• Teach what is good
• Don’t be a heavy drinker
• Those more mature in the faith should mentor the new disciples
• We are to submit to one another (Ephesians 5:21)
• Look after your homes and families

Jesus help me to live in a way that reflects you, your loving kindness and goodness, to others. Help me to be respectful, speak well, teach good, and submit to others. Jesus help me and strengthen my faith with love and patience.  Amen

Written by Zoe Stewart