SUMMARY: Church leadership
OVERVIEW: Paul writes to Timothy and identifies the characteristics of church elders and overseers.
BIG IDEA: Live for God, and you’ll silence those who oppose God.
KEY VERSE: Titus 1:9 (Paul to Titus)
He must have a strong belief in the trustworthy message he was taught; then he will be able to encourage others with wholesome teaching and show those who oppose it where they are wrong.
IF GOD WROTE YOU A LETTER
I love communities of faith that live for me and aspire to grow in the image of Jesus and to share my love with others. The contrast between those who live for me and those who oppose me and my ways is startling. Don’t be like those who claim the name of Jesus yet live self-centered lives. Their actions deny what their mouths proclaim. Speak truth to them, treat them with respect, and pray for them. Pray that they respond to the Holy Spirit and turn from their selfish ways and to me.
Meanwhile, focus on continuing to grow in the ways I’m leading you. Support and encourage one another to seek me and follow me. Be faithful in your relationships. Live with joy and without fear. When you fail, be quick to confess. Don’t hide your sin, hoping no one will find it. Instead, acknowledge the wrong and celebrate forgiveness as a community. Hold firmly to my teachings and experience grace and peace in your life so you can share it with others.
NEXT STEP
Paul contrasts the traits of aspiring leaders for Jesus and those who oppose God. Review the list of attributes and identify a positive one you want to grow in and a negative one you want to avoid. Ask a friend to pray with you and hold you accountable.
MUSIC VIDEO