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- What attributes of God’s character does this passage reveal?
- How does the passage point to Jesus?
- How should the truth of this passage change me?
- How do the events of today’s reading help you better understand the grand narrative of Scripture?
Titus 1
Paul worked to bring people to the, “knowledge of the truth that leads to Godliness”. (Titus 1:1b). We know that there is only one truth, and that truth is Jesus. He Himself told us, “I am the way, the truth, and the life.” (Jn. 14:6a). Thus, what I note about Paul’s statement is that knowledge of Jesus leads to Godliness. However, from Paul’s day until now, there has been no shortage of people stepping up to proclaim something as truth that is not consistent with the gospel of faith in Jesus Christ. Paul said of these people, “They claim to know God, but they deny Him by their works.” (Titus 1:16a). That’s because there is only one truth that leads to Godliness; only one truth that saves. Everything else only feeds the flesh.
Titus 2-3
There’s no way around it – the way we live reflects whom we serve. The attitudes and behaviors Paul instructs Titus to encourage are not natural to humanity in general. This is obvious because even true believers struggle with them! Thus, if we live the way Paul describes, people will know something is different in us. Whether our lives are characterized by Godliness or Godlessness, we wear that like a garment. People see it, even if they don’t recognize it. And this all gives me something to think about as I go through my day-to-day. Before I speak a word, react to anything, or decide on an action, I need to stop and think about who others will see in my choices. Will they see me serving me, or will they see God shining through me?