“This is a trustworthy saying, and I want you to insist on these teachings so that all who trust in God will devote themselves to doing good. These teachings are good and beneficial for everyone.” Titus 3:8 (NLT)
In the book of Titus, Paul writes to his son, instructing him on church leadership, wrong teachings, and how the believers in Crete should live.
Interestingly, Paul’s description of the false teachings in Crete closely resembles the situation in Ephesus: a combination of selective Jewish observances (such as being circumcised and abstaining from certain foods) and the pursuit of controversial speculations (Titus 1:10-14, 1 Tim 1:3-7).
- However, these teachings did not produce transformed lives because they were not rooted in the gospel of Jesus Christ.
- It is the messages about Jesus Christ (Christocentric) that help people to live the Christ-like life.
- It has the power to shape character, renew minds, and produce genuine godliness (Romans 1:16; Titus 2:11–12).
For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age, ~ Titus 2:11–12
In addressing the concerns in Crete, Paul instructs Titus to insist on Christocentric teachings, so that all who trust in God will devote themselves to doing good. He made it very clear, that these teachings are good and beneficial for everyone (Titus 3:8).
In yesterday’s devo, we highlighted some of these teachings from Titus chapter two. Let’s briefly recap those before continuing in chapter 3.
Recap from Titus 2:
- a. Church leaders, teach the word: emphasizing sound doctrine and integrity in teaching
- b. Older men, toughen up in the right areas: exhibiting self-control, endurance, and faith
- c. Older women, train and nurture: teaching younger women by example
- d. Young women and men, follow right: embrace purity, discipline, and godly conduct
Now in Titus 3, Paul continues by outlining additional teachings Titus must emphasize – teachings that lead to godly living, effective witness, and spiritual maturity.
1. Submission to rulers and authorities (v1)
Remind them to be subject to rulers and authorities, to obey, to be ready for every good work ~ Titus 3:1
Christian witness is not only doctrinal but civic as well. Believers must model responsible citizenship by respecting and obeying authorities, except when obedience would violate God’s commands (Acts 5:29). This prevents unnecessary opposition to the gospel and reflects God’s orderliness (Romans 13:1–7; 1 Peter 2:13–17).
Therefore submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord’s sake, whether to the king as supreme, or to governors, as to those who are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers and for the praise of those who do good.
For this is the will of God, that by doing good you may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men— as free, yet not using liberty as a cloak for vice, but as bondservants of God. Honor all people. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the king. ~ 1 Peter 2:13–17
Submission also includes honoring authority in the home (Ephesians 5:21–25), the workplace (Colossians 3:22–24), and the church (Hebrews 13:17). A Christian who respects lawful authority becomes trustworthy, influential, and responsible, a living testimony of godliness to society.
How can we reflect Christ in our civic and social responsibilities?
- Be diligent and honest at work (Colossians 3:22–24).
- Respect leaders even when you disagree, praying for them faithfully (1 Timothy 2:1–2).
"Bondservants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh, not with eyeservice, as men-pleasers, but in sincerity of heart, fearing God. And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ." ~ Colossians 3:22–24
- Avoid complaining and strife (Philippians 2:14–15).
- Represent Christ in your neighbourhood, contributing to peace and order (Jeremiah 29:7).
"Do all things without complaining and disputing, that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world," ~ Philippians 2:14–15
Christians should be known as the most faithful, trustworthy, respectful, and peace-loving people in any community. We’ll continue tomorrow but today, pray that you will reflect Christ in your diligence, honesty, respect, submission, etc. ~ Min James Deke
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