Paul's writings

Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good, to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and always to be gentle toward everyone. At one time we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another. But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life. This is a trustworthy saying. And I want you to stress these things, so that those who have trusted in God may be careful to devote themselves to doing what is good. These things are excellent and profitable for everyone. But avoid foolish controversies and genealogies and arguments and quarrels about the law, because these are unprofitable and useless. Warn a divisive person once, and then warn them a second time. After that, have nothing to do with them. You may be sure that such people are warped and sinful; they are self-condemned. Titus 3:3-11

I think to myself sometimes, why do I write? There are several reasons. One is because I am just like my mom and cannot always say the words that are in my head. Another is because it gives me an opportunity to really think. With the crazy life of a football coach, it helps me to take a few minutes and just think. Most of all, I write because we are all in different stages of our lives with many challenges. I hope I am helping and encouraging you because I know it encourages me when I get a note from a family member or someone special in my life. I have an envelope in my dresser drawer at home with a few notes from my Granny and my mother. I remember one letter from my mom that was written during the first August that I was playing football at Samford. I often pull the old letter out to read it and it encourages me still, 25 years later.

In the verses above, Paul is writing to encourage and teach Titus. Paul had left Titus on the island of Crete to continue the work of the Lord and his letter was teaching him how to act as a Christian, how to teach others to act, and how to deal with the non-believers living on the island. The people on the island, the Cretans, were considered an angry group of people with bad character. They were living under the authority of the violent Roman Empire and were constantly fighting against the rulers. Even today a bad person is sometimes referred to as a “Cretan”. Paul knew that Titus would encounter many non-believers during his time on the island and his work would be very difficult. He was reminding Titus of how a Christian should live in a world controlled by non-believers. He directs Titus to obey the government and to avoid political disputes, and to be a gentle and humble citizen. He also reminds Titus to be careful to not insult people but to live as an example of a kind, but strong, Jesus. He warned Titus about becoming involved in arguments that would cause division among the Christians and about becoming involved with wicked people. He tells Titus to warn the wicked person once or twice, but if he refuses to change, avoid him.

The letter to Titus was meant as a guide through the difficult times that would come and also as encouragement. I imagine Titus read the letter many times, especially during those days when he felt as though the entire group of people was against him. The letter may have also helped correct Titus when he was becoming angry or was tempted to act in a manner that was unpleasing to God. I know my letter from my mom encouraged me during two-a-days in 1988 and it still encourages me today. It also reminds me of how much she loves me and expects from me.

Hopefully, these blog writings will encourage you as you go throughout your day with some of the “Cretans” in your life. Also, I pray that God continues to help me live the life that I portray in my writing. Paul could only write to Titus and give instructions if he was living the example that he expected of Titus.

Pray each day to be an example of Jesus in your words, actions, and thoughts.

Chad