Titus 1
Summary: Paul wrote this letter to Titus so he would bring order to the corrupt churches on the island of Crete. Poor leadership (false teachings) and ungodly living among believers were the cause of these unhealthy churches. Here we see Paul’s concern for healthy churches and the link between Christian faith & their practices (belief and behavior).
Major Points:
(V. 1-9) In the introduction Paul informs us that he is concerned about the believers of Crete and their knowledge of the truth. He states that applying faith to knowledge of the truth is how you grow into godliness. This concern then leads Paul to instruct Titus to raise up leaders in the churches. As christians, we are all called to grow into spiritual maturity for the sake of leading others to the same salvation we experienced in Jesus. Paul gives certain qualities that we should all try to grow in for the sake of growth and keeping the church in a healthy state.
(V. 10-16) There were many people in Crete that claimed to be believers but their lives did not reflect it. People were teaching a false Gospel and leading others astray. We are reminded again that sound leadership in the Church is crucial. It takes sound leadership to be able to disprove ungodly behavior and beliefs. The situation in Crete isn’t all that different than the one we find ourselves in today. There are many people in the Church that are leading others in the wrong direction. The Church needs believers to take their faith seriously and grow into godliness so we can properly lead others.
Question Bank:
How has your week been spiritually?
What is God teaching you?
What sins are you struggling with that you need to confess?
(V. 1-4) How does knowledge of the truth relate to growing into godliness?
(V. 4-9) Do you see yourself as a leader in any way? How?
(V. 4-9) How many of these qualities do you see in yourself?
(V. 4-9) What can you do this week to grow into these qualities?
(V. 4-9) Do you spend enough time in the word to teach it to others?
(V. 10-16) Who is someone you know that isn’t pursuing a relationship with Jesus?
How can you lead them closer to Christ this week?
(V. 10-16) How can you rebuke someone sharply while showing love & grace?
(V. 10-16) In what ways does your behavior align with your faith? In what ways does it not?