Live The Truth, Teach The Truth

This is the epistle of Paul, to his fellowservant Titus. His co-worker in the church. False doctrines are invading the Cretan church. Notice Paul refers to Titus as his fellowservant, his brother in the faith. Here Titus is recognized as an equal or Elder just like Paul, and is instructed as to what to teach the followers. Earlier Paul talked to Timothy as his child, his son in the faith. He taught him what he should do as a leader. He used the doctrine Jesus taught, to prepare Timothy for his journey as a Christian leader. What he should teach the congregation. Here elder is used as a designation of age. He teaches Titus what the follower of Christ, should be doing. Notice how the scriptures are relatively the same. Just addressed to different people. One to the leaders, one to the church. Each one teach one.

Titus 2
1But speak thou the things which become sound doctrine:

The most important thing here, is the true doctrine coming forth. The word of God hasn't changed at all, in thousands of years. It was the same for Timothy, as it was for Titus. As well the same thing, goes for Christians today. Paul is telling Titus, to teach what he has come to know. Remember Paul telling Timothy, to rely on what Lois and Eunice had trusted. If it worked for those before you, why not you too? This is basically saying the same thing, in different words. The truth is timeless.



Titus 2
2That the aged men be sober, grave, temperate, sound in faith, in charity, in patience.

3The aged women likewise, that they be in behavior as becometh holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things;

4That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children,

5To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed.

6Young men likewise exhort to be sober minded.

The first scripture deals with the men of the faith, and how they should behave. It first tells them, to be calm and patient. Not quick to become moved and react, to what upsets worldly minded men. Not one who is influenced by the affects, of intoxication. Not just alcohol, but anything that alters ones mentality. You should be one willing to be of service to others in need. In general he should be, an all around good person. One whose life, can be patterned after by others. Also one who teaches and practices righteousness, as a way of life. The scripture then deals with women, and how they should behave. It pretty much demands the same things of them. It goes farther to tell the older women, to teach the younger women. It is important that the older people, lead the younger ones by example. I think this scripture was as significant then, as it is now. Women seem to have always had the inside track to other women, when it comes to influence. In week before last weeks lesson, Paul called on Timothy to think back to his mother and grandmother. I think the relationship between, women and their children. Is crucial in passing the faith down through the generations. Notice how it ends telling young men, only to be sober. If a child has been reared in the way he should go,he will only face that issue once he becomes a man. Before you become an adult the seed should have already been planted.


Titus 2

7In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine shewing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity,

8Sound speech, that cannot be condemned; that he that is of the contrary part may be ashamed, having no evil thing to say of you.


Don't be one to just talk the talk. Be one to walk the walk as well. People should be able to look at you, and see what you're about. You shouldn't have to broadcast your religion , it should be evident in your demeanor. Any thing you say, you should be able to repeat. Those who challenge what you profess, they will be proven wrong.Those against you will have to make things up. They won't get any ammunition from you.


Titus 2
9Exhort servants to be obedient unto their own masters, and to please them well in all things; not answering again;

10Not purloining, but shewing all good fidelity; that they may adorn the doctrine of God our Saviour in all things.

This is a principle that many Christians have a problem with. As believers we are required to respect authority. Whether we like it or not. We are required to obey the rules prescribed by those in charge. Whether it coincides with what we think is best. We must believe that all things work together for the good of those who love the lord. We must trust God to be our intercessor. Not being resistant, but behaving as Christians in all situations.

Titus 2

11For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men,

12Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world;

13Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ;

14Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.

15These things speak, and exhort, and rebuke with all authority. Let no man despise thee.

We avoid the traps of this earth, in exchange for the promises of a better eternal life. In a world hereafter, set aside for a chosen people. Chosen people being those that have accepted the gospel of Jesus. The promise of God have been extended, to all that accept his son Jesus Christ as their saviour. We as Christians live in expectation of the day, when people like us will be redeemed. We live righteously while on earth, in hopes of things to come. Teach and preach these things continually, it is the truth. If God is for you, let no man can stand against you. At least not with success.

Next Weeks Lesson 2/26/2006

Live The Truth, Teach The Truth

Bible Background * Titus 2

Printed Text * Titus 2

Devotional Reading * Ephesians 4: 11-16

Follow A Good Mentor

In this lesson we see where Paul is preparing young Timothy, on the opposition he will face. Paul considered Timothy, as his son in the faith. It's amazing to me, that the bible is self fulfilling. The principles of righteousness, are called on repeatedly throughout the bible. The same problems they had in the start. Are the same things happening, thousands of years later. Just like we had the answer then, we have the answer now. We have the holy bible, the written word of God. We have been doing a series centered in Exodus, about the deliverance of the Israelites. The reluctance of the people, to follow the word of God. Took a journey that was supposed to take three days, and turned it into one that lasted forty years. The gospel has changed considerably, since the beginning of time. It has always been to save the children, of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Which brings us, to where we as Christians are today. All people fall into one branch of that family. The same problems Moses and Paul faced then. We face as Christians today. Just like Timothy needed a good mentor then, we need one today.


Passage 2 Timothy 3
10But thou hast fully known my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, charity, patience,
11Persecutions, afflictions, which came unto me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra; what persecutions I endured: but out of them all the Lord delivered me.

Again Paul is instructing the younger Timothy, on the opposition he will face in his Christian walk. Paul reminds Timothy, he has been taught all there is to know, about the gospel of Jesus Christ. He has been taught what Godly behavior is, and what is not. The fruits of the spirit should be evident, in his actions. He knows what he should look for, in other leaders as well. Paul is aware of the things Timothy will face, in maintaining the church. Experience is the best teacher you can have. Paul has endured these things himself. He speaks of the experiences he faced at Antioch, Iconium and Lystra. Through it all, he depended on his faith in God. The lord delivered him through everything he encountered.


Passage 2 Timothy 3
12Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.
13But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived.

If you live for God, they will come against you. That's a given, you can expect that to happen. When you look around, and it seems like the bad guys always win. That's a trick of the devil, used to weaken the believer. Just keep watching, you'll see the righteous always prevail. Only those things we do for God will last. Those that trick others, just keep on getting tricked themselves.


Passage 2 Timothy 3
14But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them;
15And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.
16All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
17That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.

Stick with what got you to this point. Remember what you've learned, and who you learned it about. Remember week before last Timothy was reminded of his grandmother Lois, and his mother Eunice. To have known this thing all your life, makes you stronger in your walk with Christ. Everything that you have learned thus far, is worthy of repeating. It is complete in it's coverage, because it is inspired by God. If one seeks to truly live a righteous life. Why not use the manual God has provided us, for perfection in our lives.

2 Timothy 4
1I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom;
2Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long suffering and doctrine.
3For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;
4And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.
5But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.

Your faithfulness and works, will be judged by the Father and his son Jesus. In spite of it not being popular, keep preaching the word anyway. It usually convicts us, in one way or another. Don't be hesitant to share, or use the word of God. The time will come when man will be willing to listen, to everything but the truth. People now can find congregations and denominations, to go along with whatever they want. They find groups that go along or feed into their behavior. Regardless of what the world does, you continue to trust in God, and tell others. Be an example yourself, or the gospel you profess.

2 Timothy 4
6For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand.
7I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith:
8Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.

Here Paul foresees his future coming to an end . The end of his earthly ministry is at hand. To know you have lived a good life dedicated to God, must be a wonderful feeling. To know at the time of judgment, you will be abundantly rewarded. This will be a day of happiness for all who accept. Not just the elect. Most people won't live a life as instrumental as Paul's, in the upbuilding of the body of Christ. That's why it's so important to have mentors. They provide encouragement, and examples for us to follow. To have someone go ahead of us with success, makes it easier to go ourselves. That's why it's important to have mentors for ourselves, that have gone before us. As well as be mentors to those who follow you.

Next Weeks Lesson 2/19/2006

Follow A Good Mentor

Bible Background * 2 Timothy 3-4

Printed Text * 2 Timothy 3:10 4:8

Devotional Reading * Psalms 119: 9-6

Develope Christian Character

Again apostle Paul is talking, to the younger pastor Timothy. Concerning the false teachings, of Hymaneaus and Philetus. It appears they are the leaders, of a spiritual movement. That encourages the abandonment, of the true faith. It taught that the ressurection of the messiah, had already taken place. Resurrection was according to them, a state of being. Of which I'm sure, they had the key. It is amazing how the early Christians, faced the same obstacles as we do today. Over 1900 years ago, there were false prophets then. People were looking for alternatives even then. It is important that we as Christians, are equipped to represent the kingdom. Knowing that there will be those, who challenge our belief. This can only be obtained, through study and application.

Passage 2 Timothy 2
14Of these things put them in remembrance, charging them before the Lord that they strive not about words to no profit, but to the subverting of the hearers.
15Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

As stated earlier, Paul is talking to Timothy about false teachings. He is telling him to stay focused on the scripture . Don't get sidetracked with senseless questions. Trying to defend truth, to those that don't honestly want to hear. Time would be better spent, feeding someone that hungers. Anyone that humors this type discussion, opens the door for deceit. The only way to know when someone, is not telling the truth. Is to know the truth for yourself. You can obtain this knowledge, through reading the bible. Rightly dividing the word, is to reveal what is given to you by God. Not what we choose to believe, or what's convenient. People have always been looking, for an easy way out.

Passage 2 Timothy 2
16But shun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness.
17And their word will eat as doth a canker: of whom is Hymenaeus and Philetus;
18Who concerning the truth have erred, saying that the resurrection is past already; and overthrow the faith of some.
19Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity.
20But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of earth; and some to honour, and some to dishonour.
21If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master's use, and prepared unto every good work.

Don't get started on an unending journey. If you engage in ungodly behavior, it raises the level of temptation. Avoid conversations that only create question after question. All spiritual knowledge, derive from the word of God. Here Paul addresses Hymanaeus and Philetus by their name. They were influential leaders, in a spiritual movement. That claimed the resurrection had already taken place. They claimed resurrection was a state of being, humans could obtain. Of which I'm sure they alleged, they had the directions. Just like in the year 2000, people are coming up with variations of the truth. Leaving out this particular word, adding that one. In verse twenty, vessels are used as an analogy. Every house during bibical times used them, in one form or the other. They were constructed of different things. Some gold, silver, some made of wood or clay. To be used for certain tasks, they all had to be cleaned up. Regardless of its makeup, once washed. They serve the same purpose. That's like our role as Christians, all our gifts are different. Once we clean our lives up. They are worthy and acceptable to God. For the use of building the kingdom. Once we become Christians, we should be like soldiers. We have a primary focus, in spite of rank.Our ultimate goal is to be victorious.

Passage 2 Timothy 2
22Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart.
23But foolish and unlearned questions avoid, knowing that they do gender strifes.

Lust refers to more than just sex. It is all about the earthly desires of man. It's that new car,or house we have or seek. Don't mention that eros love interest. Those are just a few of the many things, that we choose over righteousness. Follow what is of God, for it is profitable. Don't get caught up in senseless debates. You already know, they don't go anywhere. Often the motivation, is to create doubt. For weaker less mature Christians. The choice presents a problem. Stronger more mature Christians, have to be like rocks. They have to be unwavering and steadfast in their faith.

Passage 2 Timothy 2
24And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient,
25In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth;
26And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will.

The Christian must not be impatient, and always willing to teach. The truth will always prevail at some point. Just continue to use the weapon given to you. Let the word of God, do it's job. Christians need to rest assured of this. Being right shouldn't make you cocky, instead your life should serve as an example. To those who are living a unholy life, and haven't yet come into the light. There is only one way to be saved. To escape the sure death, of those who follow evil. To have eternal life, you must accept Jesus Christ.

Next Weeks Lesson 2/12/2006

Develop Christian Character

Bible Background * 2 Timothy 2

Printed Text * 2 Timothy 2: 14-20

Devotional Reading * 1 Peter 2:1-10

Be True To Your Christian Heritage

This is the second letter written to the young Timothy. From the Apostle Paul, during his time of incarceration. This is the second letter , and the second time Paul has be in jail. It doesn't say what happened, that made Paul feel the need to reiterate his teachings again. It could have possibly been the rise of Gnosticism, in Ephesus. Many preachers taught by Paul, had fallen away from the faith. False Prophets and teachings, may have began to wear on Timothy. Whatever the reason, Paul felt the need to offer Timothy encouragement. He was thankful and appreciative, of the relationship they shared. Paul considered Timothy like a son in the faith. He wanted to encourage Timothy to carry on the torch after he was gone. This gospel is something to pass on to others, like it was passed to you.

2 Timothy 1

3I thank God, whom I serve from my forefathers with pure conscience, that without ceasing I have remembrance of thee in my prayers night and day;
4Greatly desiring to see thee, being mindful of thy tears, that I may be filled with joy;

This is Paul expressing his love for Timothy, and that he misses him. He lets him know that he is aware of the hardship he has faced. In his efforts to preach life, to a dying world. Some time we need to know, that the way may not always be easy. To be persecuted on behalf, of the faith. We should count it all joy. Paul was letting Timothy know, he prays for him constantly.

2 Timothy 1

5When I call to remembrance the unfeigned faith that is in thee, which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois, and thy mother Eunice; and I am persuaded that in thee also.
6Wherefore I put thee in remembrance that thou stir up the gift of God, which is in thee by the putting on of my hands.
7For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.

Here Paul is reminding Timothy, that he knows his faith is sincere. The same faith that was good enough for his grandmother, and for his mother as well. Will suffice for him too. I see the same perserverance in you, that was in them. Paul had been convinced over time, prior to him laying hands on Timothy. The same qualities we have been taught to look for, in our leaders in the church. Paul had witnessed in Timothy, in the time they had spent together. All power put in place, God has allowed. So don't be intimidated by those, who come against you. You have a flawless and proven plan. We don't have to fear anything, we can stand firm against all opposition. We have been given something complete, that will always serve our needs.

2 Timothy 1

8Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me his prisoner: but be thou partaker of the afflictions of the gospel according to the power of God;
9Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began,
10But is now made manifest by the appearing of our Saviour Jesus Christ, who hath abolished death, and hath brought life and immortality to light through the gospel:

Don't be ashamed, to share what has been shared with you. Be proud and consider yourself blessed, to know the person who enlightened you. Honor you father in the faith, or whoever gave you bread. When someone comes around with something that sounds better, don't abandon ship. Hold fast to the promises given to us by God. Even though you didn't deserve it, you were still given a chance. We were saved by the grace of God, through his son Jesus Christ. I think Jesus was a backup plan in the event man didn't work out. This is controversial interpretation. I base my thinking on this scripture:

Genesis 6:5 And God saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually.

If it had not been for Jesus, where would we be now? If our life depended on our worthiness, we wouldn't make the cut. Jesus abolished death, and gave us eternal life with his dying on the cross.

2 Timothy 1

11Whereunto I am appointed a preacher, and an apostle, and a teacher of the Gentiles.
12For the which cause I also suffer these things: nevertheless I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day.

Paul's assignment in the kingdom, was to be spread the gospel to the Gentiles. Thus the title of apostle is appropriate. An apostle is one who starts something new. To boldly go where no man has gone before. Gentiles had been left out, before the ministry of Jesus Christ. Can you imagine the opposition Paul faced? Paul was both a Roman and a Jew. He had double reasons, working against him. He had to overcome several traditions to be a Christian. In spite of that, he wasn't being swayed. He would remain committed to his belief, until his day of judgment.

2 Timothy 1
13Hold fast the form of sound words, which thou hast heard of me, in faith and love which is in Christ Jesus.
14That good thing which was committed unto thee keep by the Holy Ghost which dwelleth in us.

Paul is telling Timothy to remember what he has taught him. The belief all members of the body of Christ share, is what will ultimately bring us through. Take as an example, those who have came before you. Just as the serve as proof to you. Be an example to those, that come after you. God is, and always has been good.

We as Christians should value the path, and relationships that brought us to the faith. When we reflect on the gospel, and the affect it has had, on the lives of others. We should be excited and want to carry it forth. Just like Paul exhorted to Timothy, in his second epistle. The ball is on our court as Christians. We should take it, and run with it.