10/20/24
Rev. Clint Smith
Sermon Direct Link
Paul authoritatively described his divinely appointed credentials (as a special messenger of God and a chosen representative of Jesus Christ). He shared his personal testimony of the grace of God.
Paul lovingly referred to Titus as my true son in our common faith. This common faith brings with it the gifts of grace, mercy, and peace from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
The Church in Crete is believed to have been a young congregation. Pastor Titus was commanded by Paul to appoint Christian Elders in every town. The Church Overseer must be:
- A man of truth with unquestionable integrity. Above reproach and blameless. 1 Timothy 3:2; Titus 1:6
- A man who is the faithful husband of one wife, exemplifying fidelity in marriage and demonstrating that Pastors should be above reproach in all aspects of life. 1 Timothy 3:2; Titus 1:6
- A man with believing children who are not accused of being immoral or rebellious. A good manager of his household, whose children trust and obey him. 1 Timothy 3:4–5; Titus 1:6
- A steward of God. Devout. Not a new believer. 1 Timothy 3:6; Titus 1:9
- Blameless. Titus 1:7
- Selfless, not self-willed. Self-controlled. 1 Timothy 3:2; Titus 1:8
- Slow to anger, not quick-tempered. 1 Timothy 3:2; Titus 1:8
- Above reproach and not addicted to wine, avoiding thoughtless and inappropriate behaviors often associated with drunkenness. 1 Timothy 3:3; Titus 1:7
- Gentle and not prone to violence. 1 Timothy 3:3; Titus 1:7
- Generous, not greedy for dishonest gain, and financially ethical. Not a lover of money. 1 Timothy 3:3; Titus 1:7
- Hospitable to both believers and strangers. 1 Timothy 3:2; Titus 1:8
- A lover of good, acting in ways that are upright, holy, and disciplined. Titus 1:8
- Sensible and upright. Respectable. 1 Timothy 3:2; Titus 1:7
- Fair. Having a good reputation with outsiders. 1 Timothy 3:7; Titus 1:7
- Self-disciplined. Titus 1:8
- A man who holds firmly to the trustworthy word of God, promoting ideas that align with the Gospel and refuting false teachings. 1 Timothy 3:2; Titus 1:9