Compiled By: Lisa K Gonzales
From: The Life Application Study Bible
1 “But as for you, promote the kind of living that reflects right teaching. 2 Teach the older men to exercise self-control, to be worthy of respect, and to live wisely. They must have strong faith and be filled with love and patience.” ~ Titus 2:1-2
Notice the emphasis on “right teaching” in Paul’s instructions to Titus. This is the content of our faith. Believers must be grounded in truths of the Bible so they won’t be swayed by the powerful expression of false teachers, the possible devastation of tragic circumstances, or the pull of emotions. We should learn the Bible, study theology, apply biblical principles, and do what we learn. Having people of all ages in the church makes it strong, but it also brings potential for problems. Paul gave Titus counsel on how to help various groups of people. The older people should teach the younger by words and by example. This is how values are passed on from generation to generation.
Self-control was an important aspect in early Christianity. The Christian community was made up of people from differing backgrounds and viewpoints, making conflict inevitable. Christians exist in a pagan and often hostile world. To stay above reproach, men and women need wisdom and discernment to be discreet and to master their wills, tongues and passions so that Christ is not dishonored.
3 “Similarly, teach the older women to live in a way that is appropriate for someone serving the Lord. They must not go around speaking evil of others and must not be heavy drinkers. Instead, they should teach others what is good. 4 These older women must train the younger women to love their husbands and their children, 5 to live wisely and be pure, to take care of their homes, to do good, and to be submissive to their husbands. Then they will not bring shame on the Word of GOD.” – Titus 2:3-5 – Women who were new Christians were to learn how to have harmony in the home by watching older women who had been Christians for some time. We have the same need today. Young wives and mothers should learn to live in a Christian manner – loving their husbands and caring for their children – through observing exemplary women of GOD.
If you are of an age or in a position where people look up to you, make sure that your example is motivating younger believers to live in a way that honors GOD.
Father help us to be people living a life that reflects right living. Teach us all to exercise self-control, to be worthy of respect, and to live wisely so that we may have strong faith and be filled with love and patience. Help us to be an example for others that will bring honor to YOU, LORD, then we will not bring shame to YOUR Word.
Photo: Lexington (Kentucky)
Photo By: Lisa K Gonzales
Click on the photo to enlarge
