Under Control
Read Titus 2:1-15
Similarly, teach the older women to live in a way that honors God. They must not slander others or be heavy drinkers. Instead, they should teach others what is good. These older women must train the younger women to love their husbands and their children, to live wisely and be pure, to work in their homes, to do good, and to be submissive to their husbands. Then they will not bring shame on the word of God.
In the same way, encourage the young men to live wisely. And you yourself must be an example to them by doing good works of every kind. Let everything you do reflect the integrity and seriousness of your teaching. Teach the truth so that your teaching can’t be criticized. Then those who oppose us will be ashamed and have nothing bad to say about us.
(Titus 2:3-8)
Reflect
Paul urged Titus to be a good example to those around him so that others might see Titus’s good deeds and imitate him. Paul’s life would give his words greater impact. Sound doctrine was the resource that would enable Titus to make an impact.
Self-control, a fruit of the Spirit, was another resource. The Christian community of Crete where Titus lived was made up of people from differing backgrounds and viewpoints, making conflict inevitable. To stay above reproach, men and women needed wisdom and discernment to be discreet, and to master their wills, tongues, and passions so that Christ would not be dishonored.
Having people of all ages in the church makes it strong, but it also brings potential for problems. Paul gave Titus counsel on how to help various groups of people. The older people were instructed to teach the younger by words and by example. Women who were new Christians were to learn how to have harmony in the homes by watching older women who had been Christians for some time. Young men were to be taught to value wisdom. In ancient Greek society, the role of the husband/father was not viewed as a nurturing role but merely as a functional one. Husbands and fathers who were good examples of Christian living were important role models for young men. This is how values are passed on from generation to generation.
Respond
How has self-control helped you make an impact in your home, neighborhood, or church? What lessons can others glean from your example and priorities?