Titus’s Task

Instead he must be hospitable, devoted to what is good, sensible, upright, devout, and self-controlled. He must hold firmly to the faithful message as it has been taught so that he will be able to give exhortation in such healthy teaching and correct those who speak against it. Titus 1.8-9

Paul wrote to Titus after leaving him in Crete. He had been left there to set some things in order and to appoint elders in every town. Paul had given him directions on what to do.

He wrote to Titus explaining the criteria for the appointment of elders. Given the responsibility of caring for the spiritual lives and growth of the church, whatever man available did not fit the need. Paul gave Titus a list of attributes to look for in those who would be considered for this role.

One of the attributes was hospitality, as well as being good, sensible, and self-controlled. These men were also to hold firmly to the faithful message as it had been taught, being able to correct those who spoke against it.

These same attributes apply today. The church needs men who will hold firmly to the faithful message. These same men must be capable of correcting those who teach differently. The Bible is one book and has one message.

Vicki Matheny

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