The book of Titus tells how Paul encourages Titus to plant the church in Crete.
Chapter one tells us of Paul’s mission for Titus, the problem and problem makers at Crete, the witness against the Cretians, and the solution to the problem.
This week we will focus on each of these items.
Paul’s greeting (1:1-4)
“Paul, a servant of God, and an apostle of Jesus Christ, according to the faith of God’s elect, and the acknowledging of the truth which is after godliness; 2 In hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began;3 But hath in due times manifested his word through preaching, which is committed unto me according to the commandment of God our Saviour;4 To Titus, mine own son after the common faith: Grace, mercy, and peace, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ our Savior.”
Paul, a servant of God, is writing to his son in the faith, Titus.
Paul’s mission for Titus (1:5)
“For this cause left I thee in Crete, that thou shouldest set in order the things that are wanting, and ordain elders in every city, as I had appointed thee:”
This letter was written to Titus, but it was also written to the Christians on the island of Crete. Paul knew this letter would be publicly read among the churches on the island.
From Titus 1:5 we learn that Paul and Titus worked together in Crete, spreading the gospel and establishing churches but Paul had to leave. Titus stayed and worked among the congregations there. Since Titus was left behind to do a difficult work, Paul wanted to instruct and encourage him and he did so with this letter.
Tomorrow we will look at the problems and problem makers Titus had to deal with. You will see not much has changed in the last 2000 years.
Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001