Titus was to lead the church in Crete by setting a good example for others to follow and by teaching the word of God. Paul says that Titus must teach the older men and women to live commendable lives in Christ. The older women, in turn, are to encourage the younger women to be good wives and mothers. At the same time, the younger men were to be taught self-control in order to overcome their pride, lustful desires, and ambition. Titus was to take his teaching seriously, and it was to be evident by integrity and well-chosen words. Paul says that slaves must demonstrate the power of God's word to their masters through their obedience and good behavior. The same is true for those of us in the workplace today.

How were all these people supposed to do this? How can we overcome the world and our sinful natures to live such godly lives? The answer is in the grace and glory of Jesus. When we reflect on the cross of Jesus and how he purchased our redemption through his blood, we want to honor him with our lives. When we think of the new life we have received in him, we never want to go back. Even more, when we contemplate the glory of the risen Christ and how he will share that glory with us, we want to reflect his glory even now. It is the grace and glory of Christ that purifies our lives.


Application: Lord Jesus, purify our hearts and souls.
One Word: Grace is the fuel for godliness