A Daily Purpose

Bible Study & Devotional 301

Guiding Scripture: Titus 3:9‘But avoid foolish controversies and genealogies and arguments and quarrels about the law because these are unprofitable and useless.’ 

 

🔴Rehabilitating the Cretian Household

 

written by: Torrie Slaughter

 

Paul’s letter to Titus concludes with an overview and promise to send helpers (Titus 3:13). The missionary strategy outlined throughout this epistle creates a balance. Christ-followers can live peaceably in the world and participate in worldly things. However, if anyone were to take a closer look, they would notice the difference. The command to love God, themselves, and neighbors would significantly influence their conduct.

Once a Cretan?…

The Cretans were idol worshippers and lacked moral integrity. Paul quoted Epimenides, a Cretan poet in Titus 1:12, because the false teaching negatively influenced their culture. Imagine believing everyone from a specific place were liars and lazy gluttons only living to eat. The reputation would befall those who purposed to live in such a place. 

Renewal

But Paul wanted to change that, and through Titus, he sought to begin the transformation at the core. The family represented the foundation of godly behavior. If every household worshipped, believed, and had a reverential fear of God, then the bloodshed on the cross would affect their every action. 

What did Paul challenge Titus to do, and what can we learn from this model?

1. Be set apart! As believers in Christ, our mandate is to be ready to do good and be gentle toward everyone. We accomplish being lovely when we are mindful of our patterns. Stop blaming others for their imperfections. Be willing to address the ‘rod in your eye’ because that will demonstrate that transformation is real to unbelievers. (Titus 3:1-2)
2. Recognize the challenge to speak the truth without destroying reputation. Titus 3:3 ‘At one time we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another.’  
3. Remember that Jesus alone saves. We do not need to add anything to the bloodshed by the Son of God. The merciful, loving-kindness of our Lord and Savior produced an opportunity for our renewal through the Holy Spirit. (Titus 3:4-5)
4. (Titus 3:9) Avoid foolish, fault-finding conversations that lead to division and bitterness. Instead, create environments to discuss ideas with godly motivation. (James 3:17)

Conclusion

Paul’s letter charges Titus to start with the individuals and then cast his net into the group. We can learn this method and approach our daily interactions with more love, kindness, and mercy (Titus 3:14). Instead of gossiping about the people God loves, we can live rehabilitated lives for Christ. Pray with and over those who are challenging and frustrating. Improve the conversation by eliminating judgment and cultivating vulnerability. 

Prayer: 

Father, we thank you for sending people who will reinforce your Words and your Ways. Please help us make the first step towards recovery and freedom from the Cretan addiction. Your Truth endures to all generations. Thank you for patiently abiding in us. Amen

 

 

   

🔴 The Bible In A Year Daily Reading Plan

Thursday, October 28, 2021

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