The apostle Paul wrote the book of Titus to a young pastor named Titus who was ministering on the Greek island of Crete. Crete has some Jews living in their towns, so they would have had some knowledge of God. But it was a massive shift for most individuals in Crete who put their faith in Christ. Titus was ministering in this new and dynamic environment and this letter gives him guidance about how to faithfully navigate things. It can help us reflect on the core elements of our faith and how we should live it out in our own context.
Paul refers to himself as a servant of God and an apostle of Jesus Christ and addresses Titus as a son. This is perhaps a surprising blend of authority and tenderness in his way of relating to Titus. Paul is speaking on behalf of God but does so with the concern of a father for his son.
The substance of Paul’s ministry, and in turn Titus’, is to further the faith of God’s people and their knowledge of the truth that leads to godliness. This encapsulates Christian service. It is about helping people believe in God and grow in godliness. While there are all kinds of diverse environments that Paul, Titus, and we serve people, it is this basic influence that we aim to have.
Paul also highlights that the hope of eternal life found in the Christian message is something God promised before the beginning of time! This is not an afterthought or back-up plan. This was God’s intention all along. But since the death and resurrection of Jesus and the coming of the Holy Spirit, this message is going out to all the world through God’s servants. We are all a part of that mission.
Questions for Discussion/Reflection:
- Does the combination of authority and tenderness that Paul has in his relationship with Titus remind you of any relationships you have experienced?
- While we don’t want to oversimplify the work God has for us to do in the world, how does the boiled down description of “furthering faith” and “knowledge that leads to godliness” help clarify God’s mission?
- How can you further participate in bringing the good news about Jesus to the people in your current environment?
