Titus Heading: Shaped into God's Community

Called into His Service
Titus 1:1-4

Paul J. Bucknell

The Bible Teacher's Commentary

Paul, a bond-servant of God, and an apostle of Jesus Christ, for the faith of those chosen of God and the knowledge of the truth which is according to godliness,  2 in the hope of eternal life, which God, who cannot lie, promised long ages ago, 3 but at the proper time manifested, even His word, in the proclamation with which I was entrusted according to the commandment of God our Savior; 4 to Titus, my true child in a common faith: Grace and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Savior.    


This is page 1/5 of The Bible Teacher's Commentary on Titus 1:1-4, 'Called into His Service', which shows how Paul's love touched his ministry. In this article the contrast between a mature and immature Christian is articulated. A Bible Study is included.



Introduction

Every relationship that we have has the potential of bringing forth God’s love and light to others. We might not regularly think about the people we Immature Christianmeet in this light, but we should. This is the difference between a mature Christian and an immature one.

The mature Christian is aware of those around him or her and constantly discerning what is God’s purpose for Mature Christianhim in relationship to him. A person around us might be discouraged. When we notice that, we pray and seek the Lord for words of comfort that we might be able to say.

The immature Christian, however, focuses on how others fulfill his own needs. If he or she is happy, they exude a sense of happiness. But if they are upset, one can easily notice that they want everyone else around to notice and feel pity on them.

Sometimes this is done by withdrawing oneself; at other times by complaining. Paul showed himself to be a man who cared for others. In between prison sentences, he could not get the church off his heart. He cared for those in Crete even though it might have only been a month that he was there. He remembered them, though, and heard of their plight.

It is this relationship of love Principles of Care and Lovethat stands behind any office that makes it so powerful. He was not just exerting his authority. He cared for the people and therefore exerted his authority. God’s will is most easily discovered by looking at the needs of those God brings into your lives.It is true that we all are very different, especially compared to Paul the Apostle.

He had a special role in life. But we do too. We have much more in common than we would normally think about. Outline Titus NTIt starts with observing those around us. Secondly, we are to care for them. Thirdly, we are to follow up that concern. Whether here and elsewhere at work, home or while traveling.

We are on a mission. We have different gifts, resources and capacities, but like Paul, we are called to make ourselves available to Him and others.

Let’s try learning from Paul on how to be sensitive care for others. From Titus 1:1-4 we find three characteristics behind a mature Christian that God can greatly use. Next


    The online Cross Training discipleship material helps train others to focus on others.


    New Testament Digital LibraryMost of BFF articles such as this one is nicely formatted for printing. Check out the great number of articles on the BFF Biblical Training Library all for one low cost.

    Or just order the printed copy or download of the Inductive Bible Study in Titus which comes with student handouts in pdf and .doc to edit.



    Book of Titus: The Bible Teacher's Commentary


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      New American Standard Bible used


      Biblical Foundations for Freedom


      By Paul J. Bucknell