Daily Meditations on the Bible / We stand with Israel
And I want you to stress these things …
Summary: Paul’s letter to Titus is very short. Yet, it contains a concise summary of Christian teachings. In this passage we are encouraged to step back and take a look at where Paul’s words have brought us.
Continue reading “Titus 3:8 (b) — Things”
But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared …
Summary: The word “kindness” is sometimes misunderstood to refer to someone who never says a mean word. As we look at today’s passage, we discover that what is important is the moral quality of the person or being the word refers to.
Continue reading “Titus 3:4 — A Kind of Kindness”
… and to purify for himself a people that are his very own …
Summary: Learning to live for God is a purifying process. We give up what is ungodly and embrace what is godly. Having paid the price for our redemption, God changes us into people who are his very own.
Continue reading “Titus 2:14 (c) — The Keys of Heaven”
For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people.
Summary: Knowing our Lord and talking about him are two different things. We can do one without the other. However, when we know the Lord and talk about him, the way we talk says as much as the words we use.
Continue reading “Titus 2:11 — Unspeakable Love”
Then they can urge the younger women… to be … kind …
Summary: Paul’s words challenge us to ask the question: Am I kind?
Continue reading “Titus 2:5 (d) — Maple Syrup”
Then they can urge the younger women to love their … children
Summary: Paul wants young women to care for their children as God cares for us. The word used in the NIV is “love,” but in this case, it means “caring like a friend.”
Continue reading “Titus 2:4 (b) — The Source of All Knowledge”
They claim to know God, but by their actions they deny him.
Summary: “Actions speak louder than words,” is an old saying that is very true. We might think we can hide our motives in our hearts and minds, but God knows our hearts and our actions speak volumes.
Continue reading “Titus 1:16 (a) — The Big Ouch”
They must be silenced …
Summary: The NIV translates “epistomizō” as “must be silenced.” In English, that phrase is open to broad interpretation. Looking to Jesus helps us understand Paul’s intent.
Continue reading “Titus 1:11 (a) — Shush!”
… one who loves what is good …
Summary: Analytical personalities are not often gifted with the ability to “see” with the heart. Yet an overseer of God’s church must be able to do that, and to love what is good.
Continue reading “Titus 1:8 (b) — Eyes of the Heart”
[Since an overseer manages God’s household, he must be blameless] —not overbearing …
Summary: Paul’s letter provides instructions for a mature believer in Christ to recognize other mature believers. In those who are mature leaders will be found.
Continue reading “Titus 1:7 (c) — Christians with “a Peel””