- He must hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught, so that he may be able to give instruction in sound doctrine and also to rebuke those who contradict it. Titus 1:9 – Here scripture gives us a great couple reasons why we should be reading it and revolving our lives even around it. First, we need to know it so we can share it’s directions. Yes, this chapter is speaking about the qualifications and responsibilities of pastors, but even if that doesn’t fit you we still need to be familiar with scripture so we can help other people know how to live for God. Second, it’s so when someone speaks falsely against scripture we can identify it and correct it. There are enough people walking without direction and being fed lies by people who don’t know what’s right. We need to be familiar with God’s Word so we can help them see the right way to go. So remember your daily habit of reading scripture is for more than just you, it’s setting you up to help others. I love you, but Jesus loves you more – Mac – Daily DEVO 732
- This is why I left you in Crete, so that you might put what remained into order, and appoint elders in every town as I directed you. Titus 1:5 – Paul is writing to his coworker in the faith Titus to guide him on his role in the new church that was planted in Crete. This island church was a rough bunch of people (verse 12 says they were liars, evil beasts, and lazy gluttons), and they had many within their area trying to lead the church astray with false teachings. Titus’ role was to raise up pastors for the different cities in Crete that would teach scripture properly and shut up the ones teaching falsehood. While a very direct message to a particular context, we certainly can take hold of the truths laid out in this passage. Even if today your calling is not a pastor, we see here qualifications that are pleasing to the Lord in a follower of Him. We also see the role that the church should play in the “putting things in order” like Paul speaks of. The church should reject those speaking things contrary to scripture and embrace the teachings of sound doctrine. Rather than placating those in the church that are loud and seek to use their influence to sway things their way, the church should silence them and shut down such behavior. What we learn from this chapter is what God is looking for within His people. Leaders who properly teach His word and a church that is following His word. Is then your pastor teaching properly God’s word? Are you properly following God’s word? Is your church family prioritizing and following the teachings of God’s word? Let us as well make sure we are putting things in the right order so we can be faithful to our pursuit of the Lord. I love you, but Jesus loves you more – Mac – Daily DEVO 2780
Daily DEVO 