Read

1 Timothy 6:11-21
Titus 1:1-3:15
2 Timothy 1:1-18

Titus 2:7-8, “In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness, and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned, so that those who oppose you may be ashamed because they have nothing bad to say about us.”

Think

Out of all you know about the Bible — no matter how much or how little — chances are, you haven’t spent a considerable amount of time thinking about a man named Titus. But though he didn’t lead armies and isn’t known for dramatic miracles, God deemed him important enough to include in the New Testament because of his commitment to the local church.

Titus was a Greek Gentile convert known for being a man of integrity who was willing to step in and make it happen — as a peacemaker when there was a misunderstanding, as an encourager when there was frustration, and as an advocate for those in need. Paul described him as his “true child in a common faith.” Though they came from starkly different backgrounds, they were united because of their faith — a faith that crossed all cultural lines. They were like family!

Around 65 AD, the churches in Crete were dealing with false teaching and corruption. Titus’ assignment was to remain there and lead by example as he restored order, appointed solid leaders, and rooted out the teaching of unsound doctrine to further Christ’s mission.

Like Titus, when we seek to set an example with this combination of faith, integrity, godliness, and passion for sharing the hope of Christ, we are set apart as “true children of God in our common faith.” The peace and confidence this produces within us causes others to lean in and want to know more about Jesus and why we believe what we believe!

Pray

Lord Jesus, Thank You for the peace and confidence I have through the sound teaching of Your Word. Help me lead by example as I seek to live in a way that makes non-believers want to know more about You. Amen.