TITUS

 

  "Holding forth the faithful word as he hath been  taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers."  Titus 1:9  KJV

The book of Titus has no "3:16".  Titus is one of the three "Pastoral"  letters the Apostle Paul wrote to deal with matters concerning pastors and congregations. (The other two were I and II Timothy.)  These  were the only letters of Paul written to individuals - with pastoral advice about false teaching, sound doctrine, and good works... What to do, and what not to do...

The book of Titus emphasizes sound doctrine, but also challenges believers to do good works.  In other words, there can be no separation between what we believe and doing what is right.  All action is shaped on belief;  if there are no convictions in a person's heart, there will be no fruitfulness in his life. Paul  stresses the need for good works and gives many practical examples of what good works are to the people. And,  although he tells them that it is only by the grace of God that good works are possible (2:11,12), he also teaches that human involvement is necessary in motivating  believers. He states the need for teaching (1:11;2:3,12), preaching (1:3), speaking (2:1,15), reminding (3:1), admonishing (2:4), exhortation (1:9;2:6,15) and rebuke (1:13;2:15). There is a tremendous call to action in the epistle to Titus. This is a book requiring people to "do."

The final chapter of Titus lists ideal characteristics for Believers. Paul urged Titus to avoid such traps as legalism, man-made traditions, and disputes over moot points (foolish controversies.)  There is a balance to be maintained;  it is most-important to always remember that the measuring stick for appropriate behavior is the Word of God.

"Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life."  Proverbs 4:23