SCRIPTURE: Titus 1:1-4
Background
What do we know about Titus?
Where is Crete?
Author: Paul
Doulos means: Servant or slave
Apostle means: Messenger or ambassador
Commitments of Ministry
- Evangelism
- Understanding the Truth
- Encouragement
Commitment to Preaching of the Word
Jesus Christ, the Son, was literally God’s Word or message of salvation to the world. In the Gospel of John we read “the Word was made flesh and dwelt among us and we have seen God’s glory.” That was God’s plan for revealing salvation to the world. And it is for the ministry of the church. In His final words, Jesus said “Go, preach the Gospel, baptize new believers, disciple them, teach them the Word of God, so they can obey my commands.” Paul, and a faithful leader today, will be committed to preaching salvation revealed at the right time through Jesus’ own life and words.
That is why our church is committed to preaching the Bible God’s Word not just popular or the latest trendy ideas. Expository preaching is interpreting, explaining, and apply God’s Word as clearly and completely as possible. That is our aim.
Closing
In just these four opening verses of Paul’s letter to Titus, he points out that God, in His sovereignty, ordained or planned our salvation through His Son Jesus Christ even before time began. He also details the purposes of ministry as the knowledge and understanding of the truth about God and eternal life, encouragement of believers, and God’s faithfulness through the ages. He also identifies himself as a chosen servant and messenger who is called to preach and teach the Word of God. The faithful leader must be committed to the Word of God. As we study this letter in the coming months, commit to worshipping together, ask God to show you where He calls you to serve in the church and how He wants you respond to the Gospel and the call to godliness.
If you have never trusted Jesus Christ as your Savior, that is the starting point for understanding God’s grace, experiencing His mercy and forgiveness, and finding true peace with God. Come talk to Pastor Mark if you are ready to hear more.
