Titus And The Call To Biblical Discipleship

Titus and

The Call to Biblical

Discipleship An Inductive Bible Study

Sunergos Bible Studies Jan Wells

Copyright  2001, 2003 by Jan Wells Titus and the Call to Biblical Discipleship – An Inductive Bible Study by Jan Wells Printed in the United States of America Library of Congress Control Number: 2003102362 ISBN 1-591606-34-9 All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means – electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise – without the prior written permission of the publisher and copyright owners. Acknowledgments Unless otherwise indicated or if marked (ISV) scripture quotations are taken from: The Holy Bible: International Standard Version®, ISV®. Copyright © 1996-2003 by The ISV Foundation of Yorba Linda, CA. Used by permission of Davidson Press, Inc. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED UNDER INTERNATIONAL AND PAN-AMERICAN COPYRIGHT CONVENTIONS. Scripture quotations marked (NASB) are taken from The New American Standard Bible®, NASB® Copyright © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission. (www.Lockman.org) Scripture quotations marked (NIV) are taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked (KJV) are taken from the HOLY BIBLE, KING JAMES ®VERSION. KJV is public domain and permissions for use are not necessary.

Word studies are taken from Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible as well as other reference sources. The Hebrew and Greek words given in the left column of the word study are the lexical form of the word, followed by actual word found in an Interlinear Bible. When sources other than the Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance are used in the center column of the word study they are in italic print. A complete list of the references used for this study is found in the Bibliography. Cover Photo: Ruins at Aradena, on the Island of Crete by Anemone Horn Photography. Used by permission. (www.anemone-horn.de/english.htm) Woodcut illustrations by Julius Schnoor von Carolsfeld were originally printed in “Das Buch der Bücher in Bilden.” They were scanned by Publications for Latin America, WELS. [email protected]

Sunergos Bible Studies 2485 Morse Road Sebastopol, CA 95472 707 829 2956 To order additional copies, www.SunergosBible.org

1/14/2008

Table of Contents Page Lesson 1 – Titus Overview....................................................................................................5 Lesson 2 – Paul and Titus, and Titus 1:1-4 ..........................................................................17 Lesson 3 – Titus 1:5-16.......................................................................................................25 Lesson 4 – Titus 1 Review, Titus 2 Chapter Study, Titus 2:1,2,6-8,15 .................................37 Lesson 5 – Titus 2:3-5.........................................................................................................51 Lesson 6 – Titus 2:9-14, Titus 2 Review..............................................................................67 Lesson 7 – Titus 3 Chapter Study, Titus 3:1-7 .....................................................................79 Lesson 8 – Titus 3:8-15, Titus 3 Review, and Review of Titus ............................................93 Lesson 9 – Discipleship..................................................................................................... 105 Appendix .......................................................................................................................... 119 Scripture Worksheets ........................................................................................................ 121 Inductive Study Methodology ........................................................................................... 127 Theme and Title Chart....................................................................................................... 133 Map .................................................................................................................................. 135 Twelve Steps of Wholeness............................................................................................... 137 Profiles ............................................................................................................................. 139 Word Studies .................................................................................................................... 141 Bibliography ..................................................................................................................... 143 Sunergos Bible Studies...................................................................................................... 145 Book Summary ................................................................................................................. 146 Author Profile ................................................................................................................... 146

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I have written this Bible study that it might strengthen and encourage believers who are fellow workers, translated from the word sunergos in the New Testament Greek. We are to glorify God in all that we do, and diligent study of His word will equip us to carry out God’s plan in our life and in His church so that we might truly enjoy Him forever. Join with me that we might be fellow workers, allowing God’s word to equip us as members of His body. In His Love,

Jan Jan Wells, M.A. Sebastopol, CA 95472 707.829.2956 707.829.7376 email: [email protected] website: www.sunergosbible.org And we sent Timothy, our brother and God’s fellow worker (sunergo), in the gospel of Christ, to strengthen and encourage you as to your faith. 1 Thessalonians 3:2

I have found that there are some prayers that I can voice that God will always answer. One is asking God to increase my desire to spend time with Him, asking Him that my spirit would long to commune with Him in the pages of His word. If you surrender your feeling of “you have to” study God’s word, and instead ask God to help “you want to” spend time with Him, you will be delighted and amazed at the difference in your attitude toward the spiritual discipline of Bible study. Soli Deo Gloria (to God alone be the glory)!

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Lesson 1

Lesson 1 – Titus Overview Introduction This inductive study of the New Testament book of Titus is intended to encourage you concerning your faith. You will be challenged to examine your own commitment to the Lord as well as your relationship with others in the body of Christ. The study will investigate the various topics and timeless truths that convict and inspire people of all ages. The lessons will seek to equip you to be stronger and more mature in your walk with the Lord Jesus. These lessons also contain an examination of the spiritual discipline of discipleship as the focus of Day 5 each week will be on the role of discipleship within the body of Christ. The call for the church to be involved in the ministry of discipleship is a part of the teaching of the book of Titus. Dr. M. Robert Mulholland wrote a very simple definition to describe the phrase spiritual formation, when the Christian is “in the process of being conformed to the image of Christ for the sake of others.” Would you be willing to make that a goal for yourself as you study the book of Titus? Please consider allowing God’s word to lead and equip you in this way. To make the book of Titus come to life, this inductive study will use the Bible as the primary source of information and as you “read with a purpose” you will be asked questions to help you carefully observe the text. One goal is that you will be able to accurately interpret the Scriptures being studied, that you might determine eternal principles from the text, and then apply these Scriptures to the circumstances of your life. How important it is to “be diligent” and “handle accurately the words of truth.” It is essential that you believe that “all Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness,” as the apostle Paul declared in 2 Timothy 3:16. The lessons of this study will challenge you to recognize God’s eternal perspective from the book of Titus. You are promised that the Holy Spirit will help you understand the word of God. All believers have the same indwelling Holy Spirit that has been promised to guide them in God’s truth. When you feel frustrated or hear a voice telling you, “You cannot do this study,” recognize that that thought is not coming from God. Any follower of Christ can allow their flesh to defeat them. All Christians must recognize that Satan tries to keep believers from spending time with the Lord, from studying God’s word, and from making God’s truth a part of each decision they make.

Remember to stand firm, persevere, and ask for God’s help. You will be blessed as you press on! As you move through the study, you will be challenged to make a commitment to the spiritual discipline of Scripture memorization! You must not give up, thinking that this is too difficult, because it is possible for all believers to treasure God’s word in their heart and mind in this way. You can trust that God will use His holy word to minister to your spirit. You can also count on the fact that Scripture memorization will equip you to share your faith with others.

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Lesson 1

Day 1 1. Any time you approach the holy word of God, please establish the habit of opening your time in prayer. Humbly come before the Lord God Almighty asking Him to use His word to bring you to a stronger understanding of who He is and help you see what He has done for you. Ask God to draw you closer to Him and help you follow after His will as He leads. You will be reminded of this each day. The lesson will always begin with observation questions that will observe the theme and/or the verses to be covered in the day’s lesson. One way to approach the daily study would be to answer these observation questions that are introduced with a bold dot in Question 1, and then proceed to the last question (or questions) of the day that will be in a simple rectangular box. (This has been designed to take between twelve and twenty minutes.) Another option for the study is to complete some or all of the remaining questions in between question 1 and the questions in the rectangular box, which might take between thirty minutes and one hour. This format will allow you flexibility within the commitment of “completing” the study. • Look at the Scripture Worksheets that are located in the Appendix. These are the text of Titus, double-spaced, with no marginal notes, no introductory helps, no chapter headings, no footnotes, no paragraph titles, and no other helps like you find in other Bibles. Now begin by reading through the book of Titus, without stopping or looking for anything in particular, just read through the entire book. After you have completed the first reading, glance back at each chapter and write down your first impressions of each chapter of Titus. Remember: open your time with a prayer. Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

2. An important step in the overview process is to look at the one who wrote the book being studied. The Holy Spirit inspired the writing of all Scripture, and God directed men to record truths so that He might be made known to all mankind. Read through Titus again, this time taking a colored pen or pencil and marking, perhaps with a circle or rectangle, each time the author identified himself. He might describe himself by name or by using pronouns like I or me, or perhaps with the plural pronouns, us or we. Please answer the “5 Ws and an H” questions, on page 127 in the Appendix, which might include some of the following: 6

Lesson 1 How is the author identified? What information do you learn about the author from the book?

You might also record any additional insights that you have discovered from the text about the author.

3. Who received the book of Titus? Mark references to the recipient with a different symbol or colored line so that you can see these references at a glance. After marking, think about what you have learned about this individual. Remember in observing the text you can answer with the “5 Ws and an H” questions. Who was the recipient and where was he? Briefly explain the author’s concern and how he expressed this concern to the recipient.

4.

What other individuals are mentioned in the book of Titus?

5. Part of this study of Titus will include a time of quiet reflection at the end of each day’s lesson where you will be encouraged to focus on the Lord and quiet your heart before Him. You might read the passage of Scripture that was studied for the day and then pray through that passage (it will be at least an entire paragraph, or maybe more). As you “pray through the Scripture,” personalize the verses. One way to do that would be to read the verse and if it is a message clearly directed to someone, you could insert your name specifically into the passage. Another way would be to read the verse and then turn the verse into a prayer of praise or thanksgiving, or a prayer of confession or supplication. Take the words of Scripture that you have read and use these very words to express adoration and praise to God for that truth. Perhaps your prayer would be a simple prayer of thanksgiving to God for His provision as revealed in the passage, and for the relationship you have with Him. Maybe the verse should be a prayer of confession for an area of your life where you have not been obedient to the Lord, and you need to agree with Him concerning what He has revealed to you that needs attention. Perhaps the prayer will be turning the Scripture into a prayer of supplication where you ask God for help for yourself and for others who have a need relating to the verse’s theme. Continued on the next page. 7

Lesson 1 For the first week of this course, before you begin to look at the text one paragraph at a time, select a portion of the book that ministered to your spirit, and pray through those verses. Ask God how this truth can become a reality in your life today. Maybe a doctrinal truth would encourage your faith and you could commit that truth to memory. Maybe the passage for you to focus on today is a challenge that has come to your heart that you need to apply in your life. Ask God what He would have you spend time praying about and then quiet yourself before Him.

Day 2 1. Begin today’s time in the word by praying to God for the help you will need to understand what He would have you gain from studying the book of Titus. Record below any clues that give you information concerning the cultural, geographical, historical, and religious background that is either mentioned specifically or alluded to in Titus as part of the observation process. After you have recorded evidence of these references, consider the attitude expressed by the author, considering the general tone or atmosphere of the book. • What cultural references are made in Titus?

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•

What references to any geographical location are made in Titus?

•

What references to any historical information are made in Titus?

•

What references are made to religions other than Christianity in the book of Titus?

•

What is the general tone or atmosphere of the book of Titus?

Lesson 1 2. After reading through a book of the Bible, it is possible to know the type of literature or the genre of the book. Read through these brief descriptions and circle the word that describes the genre of the book of Titus. Some biblical books represent several genres. Epistle – a letter written either to an individual or to a group of individuals Narrative – a written record of an event or a series of events Poetry – the poetry of the Ancient Near East rhymed in image, not in words Prophecy – a record of what is to come, often events in the near future as well as in the distant future Wisdom Literature – nuggets of truth to exhort with practical insight into life choices 3. You have read through the book of Titus several times this week. Do not lose heart concerning this task! The overview lesson always requires time and energy, and you might feel discouraged. Ask God to increase your determination and your desire to be in His word. God will give you a desire to persevere and continue with the study. From what you learned about the author and the recipient of the book of Titus, how would you feel if you had received this letter?

Please close in a time of prayer, worshipping the Lord God for the gift of His word given that you might come to know Him better and be instructed in His word.

Day 3 – Key Words 1. Today you will look at three of the key words in Titus. Generally in an inductive study you would look for the key words that are repeated and essential in the text. When the key words are removed, they leave the text without clear meaning. Key words are essential to the text, because they reveal the message of the text, and form the basis for studying specific doctrinal truths. Keep in mind that key words reveal the subject of a passage, and these subjects then reveal the themes of the text, to help you see why the book was written. For this part of the lesson, you will only look for Paul’s use of the words God, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit. • When an author of any Scripture mentions God, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit, as well as any words representing these words, these are always considered key words. Mark these key words in a consistent way. I mark any reference to God with a red triangle through the word. Using the same red pencil, I place a symbol of a cross through each reference to Jesus. When the word Lord is used I place a small red 9

Lesson 1 crown over the word. I designate any references to the Holy Spirit with a wiggly red “cloud” surrounding the word. In addition to marking the words God, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit, also look for the words that were used to represent these three. In the Bible you might find the words Creator, Savior, or the Comforter as designations for God, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit. Mark these words in the same way you marked the words God, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit. Also take the time to distinguish between the pronouns that were used to represent God, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit. In the English language, when a sentence declares something about God followed by information about Christ Jesus, and the word He, Him, or His follows, it would be a reference to Christ who was mentioned secondly, and rather than a reference to the Father God. When you mark the text in this way it will help you differentiate truths about God, Christ, and the Holy Spirit. This part of the lesson will take some time, please do not just mark the words, but as you do the marking, think about what is being declared about God, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit in the book of Titus. Let these truths provide nourishment to your spirit and bring courage to your heart. 2. After you have marked these three key words, record some truths that ministered to your spirit. God Jesus Christ The Holy Spirit

Close by praying for these truths to penetrate your spirit and make a difference in your response to the challenges and problems that come into your life this next week.

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Lesson 1

Day 4 – Titus 1 Comprehensive Chapter Study 1. Every time you begin a new chapter you will spend time going through a process called the Comprehensive Chapter Study. Generally, the pattern for inductive study would be to observe a chapter and then study the chapter and determine the themes of the chapter before moving on to the next chapter. Today you will observe the Scripture Worksheets for Titus 1. Open in prayer asking for the Lord’s help and then read Titus 1 paying attention to the key words that are repeated. You can refer to the Appendix pages 128, 129, and 131 for help with the inductive observation process. • You already looked for the ways that God, Christ, and the Holy Spirit were used in Titus. Today you will look for the key words that are repeated throughout Titus 1. When key words are removed they leave the text without clear meaning. Key words are essential to the text, because they reveal the message of the text, and form the basis for studying specific doctrinal truths. Key words also reveal the subjects in the passage, and these subjects then reveal the themes of the text. Mark the key words in a consistent way. For example, I always mark any reference to the gospel with a green box around each reference. Now is the time to list what is being taught concerning the key words of Titus 1, by writing a list of what is being stated about the key word when the word was used. You can place these lists directly on the Scripture Worksheets in the right-hand margin under the heading of the key word, or place your lists on a separate sheet of paper. • List the key words from Titus 1 here.

2. As you read Titus 1, you can also look for contrasts and comparisons that were used. Refer to Appendix pages 129 and 131, and then write the contrasts and comparisons in the space provided, or mark your Scripture Worksheets in some way to show these. Contrasts (to show differences/opposites) Comparisons (to show similarities and connections, using the words as or like)

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Lesson 1 3. As you continue with the observation process, you will be looking for the purpose of the book of Titus, an important part of inductive study. The purpose for a book is sometimes very clearly stated by the author, but not always. One way of understanding the purpose of the book is to look for the author’s teaching through the declarative statements, instructions, exhortations, warnings, and admonitions. My prayer is that this process will not become an academic exercise, but rather that even through this part of the lesson the word would speak to your heart in a meaningful way. In the Appendix, on page 128, the different means of communication are explained. Paul used declarative statements, instructions, exhortations, warnings, and admonitions in his writing to communicate his purpose. a. Some of the writing in the Bible includes declarative statements that consist of the straight forward teaching of doctrinal truths as well as historical narrative. These declarative statements are common in the New Testament. Declarative statements appear in the first three verses of Titus 1, as they would be considered truths relating to Paul and his calling. There are many declarative statements in Titus, and you might mark the number of the verse in some way, with a colored line or circle, or by putting the verse or paragraph in brackets, < >, to help differentiate these declarative statements from other verses. I write in the left hand margin the means the author used with lines dividing one from another. You will be learning more about this as you move through the study of Titus. Remember that this is to help you “see” the purpose for the book, so be patient. Other examples of declarative statements are the descriptions that Paul made concerning the behavior and character of individuals in the church on the island of Crete. This would include Titus 1:6-9 as well as Titus 1:10,12 and 1:15,16. Please mark these in some way. b. The word exhortation comes from the word exhort which was used in the New Testament to mean coming alongside of someone, reminding them of God’s truth, and perhaps urging them to be obedient to the word of God. Exhortations might also be stated in the form of something that is promised from God. I believe that Titus 1:4 are words of exhortation spoken directly to Titus. Read this verse and if you agree, mark this verse in some way as an exhortation. You will see more exhortations as you continue in Titus. c. Instructions can be found with the help of several clues. Instructions were generally written as commands, where the author tells the recipient or recipients to “do something.” Sometimes in a narrative passage of Scripture someone is given an instruction. Titus 1:5,11,13,14 are the instructions Paul gave in Titus 1. You will look for instructions in the remaining chapters. 4. Look for terms of expression that help you understand time, with words like “now, then, later,” etc. and mark these in a consistent way. Another means of understanding language is to examine the way verbs are used in writing. A simple explanation of verbs is that they are words that express action or the state of being, and they relate the words communicated within a framework of time. Verbs communicate that something is happening at the moment, or has happened in the past, or will happen in the future. (The verbs in the preceding sentence are in italics.) Verbs can also announce that an event has already taken place and the results of that event are continuing at the present time. Please take the time to read Titus 1 looking for the different verb tenses that were used, noting in the left hand margin references to the future, the present, or the past. This can 12

Lesson 1 add another dimension to your study, not because you will be studying verbs, but this will help you see what God has done in the past, what He is doing in your life today, as well as show you what the future holds. 5. Mark words that express conclusion or show results or purpose with words like “for,” “for this reason,” “so that,” and “because.” Words that express conclusion are important to note because they show why the author wrote what he wrote and help you see the promises or consequences that will come. 6. Did you see a truth in Titus 1 that the Lord wants you to focus on? Was there a word that caused you to think about your own life and lifestyle? How has this portion of Scripture ministered to you today?

The Verse of the Week! Please choose a verse from Titus 1 and read the verse every day to help you remember the wording. Write out the verse, including the reference. Another helpful way to memorize would be to write the verse on a small piece of paper (a 3” x 5” card, or a small “Post-It”) and place it somewhere where you will see it often during the week, or carry it around with you. A helpful hint from educational research: when you put the verse to music and sing the words, functions within the brain are integrated, which will help you remember the words. So choose a simple tune and sing your verse! Now please close by praying through the verse you have chosen and make it very personal to yourself and where you are in your life today. My verse is Titus 1:16 and I have prayed; “Father God I am so thankful that I know You, and the desire of my heart is to show my faith though my deeds, not denying my faith in You to anyone, but letting You be made known. Father God I pray that what I do is not detestable to You and I pray that I will not be disobedient to You today. I pray that I will not be worthless in your kingdom today, but that my actions would bring You honor and glory. In the name of my Savior I pray, Amen.”

Day 5 - Discipleship 1. Every week the fifth day of the lesson will focus on the theme of discipleship, and the calling to this ministry among followers of Christ. Please open today’s time in the word by praying for God’s will to be revealed to you as you study the spiritual discipline involved in the life of a disciple. Now open with these observation questions. • Please read Matthew 28:18-20 and Acts 1:7,8 and record what Jesus asked of His disciples.

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Lesson 1 •

Who is to be involved in this command of Matthew 28:18-20?

•

How were the disciples to accomplish the “great commission” given in Matthew 28:19,20?

•

How did Jesus prepare His disciples for this commission according to Mark 3:14?

2. Nearly every day the lesson will study some of the specific words that were used in the Scripture to clarify your understanding of the meaning of these words used by the author. In order to save you the time of having to look up these words in reference books, the word studies will appear on a chart. Many books are available to help with word studies. Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance is an excellent resource for looking at both the Old Testament Hebrew words and the New Testament Greek words. The definition column in the middle might also give the word as it is translated in other versions of the Bible. Other sources in the definition column will be given in italics. A complete list of the references used for this study is found in the Bibliography. In the first column you will find the Strong’s number and the lexical form of the word, the word before it is changed grammatically to fit its context. The second row will show the actual word used based on the grammatical use of the word. Sometimes these two words will be the same, however they are usually different. The third line has the biblical reference of the word from the lesson. Included in the third column will be some cross-references that will show you how the word was used in another passage of Scripture in a similar way. Words can have more than one meaning, and they can be defined by looking at their context. You might briefly summarize what you learn about the word from the cross-reference(s) given, or just choose to read the verse. Strong’s # and Transliteration:

Definition from Strong’s Concordance, Use of the word in other Scriptures: unless written in italics:

3101 mathetes mathetai Matthew 28:16

Disciple, a learner, i.e. pupil. Followers who stayed close to their teacher.

Luke 6:40

Acts 11:26

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Lesson 1 3. In the Ancient Near East people were familiar with the practice of a disciple following after a teacher. At the time of Christ the Hebrew rabbis each had at least one disciple who followed their teaching. The Greek teachers and philosophers also followed this custom. In Matthew 10, Christ explained the role of the disciple. Please read Matthew 10:142 and jot down the description Christ gave for a disciple, and note also what Christ said was required of a disciple.

4. Please read John 13:34,35 and John 15:7-13 to see what Christ taught was involved in the process of being His disciple. What is the necessary attitude for a disciple?

5. As you close today, how would you summarize what you learned about what it means to be a disciple of Christ?

Do you consider yourself a disciple of Christ? What evidence would you claim as proof of that?

Continued on the next page. 15

Lesson 1 Dietrich Bonhoeffer, the German pastor who died for his faith at the end of World War II wrote a book entitled The Cost of Discipleship. Bonhoeffer defined discipleship as the “adherence to the person of Jesus, and therefore submission to the law of Christ which is the law of the cross.” Can you spend some time with the Lord and ask Him what He wants you to do with what you have learned today about discipleship? Please close by writing out a prayer of commitment or affirmation unto the Lord concerning your role as a disciple of Christ.

Did you memorize a verse for the week? You will be blessed by this discipline. If you did, you might write it out here, and do not forget to include the reference.

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Lesson 2

Lesson 2 – Paul and Titus, and Titus 1:1-4 Introduction This week’s lesson will focus on Paul and Titus and Titus 1:1-4. Day 5 will again examine more biblical evidence concerning what is asked of a disciple. Remember to open each day of study with a prayer, asking for guidance that you may be able to claim the truth that God wants you to understand from His word. You might consider claiming 2 Timothy 2:15 as your commitment to the word this week that you might “be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, handling accurately the word of God.” If you are pressed for time during any of the weeks of this study, and know you will not be able to complete the day’s lesson, prayerfully read the Scripture that is being studied for the week each day. Please do not give up on studying; you will be blessed as you continue.

Days 1 and 2 – Paul and Titus 1. Sometimes a passage of Scripture will be studied over a period of two days. On the first day, you can work through part of the lesson and then end in prayer. The next day you might review what was already done and then proceed to the end of the “double” lesson. In the next two days you will focus on Paul and Titus, looking at who they were and what relationship they had. Please open in prayer and answer these observation questions. • What does Titus 1:1-4 say about Paul and Titus? Paul: Titus:

•

2.

What was Paul and Titus’ relationship based upon? What did they share? Besides Titus 1, please read 2 Corinthians 7:5-16 to consider what Paul and Titus had in common.

Please examine these word studies for some of the key words used in this passage.

Strong’s # and Transliteration: 1401 doulos

doulos Titus 1:1 Titus 2:9

1

Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:

Use of the word in other Scriptures:

Servant ISV, bond-servant NASB, a slave, frequently in a qualified sense of subjection or subserviency. In a permanent relationship with another, consumed by the will of the other.1 A bond-slave has chosen to remain as a slave to their master even when freed.

Philippians 2:7

Spiros Zodhiates, The Complete Word Study New Testament, Chattanooga, AMG Publishers, 1991, p. 907. 17

Lesson 2 Strong’s # and Transliteration:

Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:

Use of the word in other Scriptures:

652 apostolos apostolos Titus 1:1

Apostle, a delegate, one who is sent, a messenger, specifically an ambassador of the gospel. A commissioner of Christ with miraculous powers.

Ephesians 4:11

3. Please read Galatians 1:13 through 2:5 and record information about Paul’s calling as an apostle and his relationship with Titus. You might list five facts about Paul and Titus or answer some of the “5 Ws and an H” questions from this passage to help you understand who they were. Paul: Titus:

4. This last set of Scriptures will direct you to the remaining New Testament verses that mention Titus. Please list several facts that introduce you to Titus or answer the “5 Ws and an H” questions concerning him. a. 2 Corinthians 8:16-24

b. 2 Corinthians 12:17,18

c. 2 Timothy 4:10

5. Do you understand why Paul called Titus his true child? From what you have studied, why did Paul leave Titus with the assignment of remaining in Crete? Could you give a brief explanation of why you think Titus was chosen for this assignment? Continued on the next page. 18

Lesson 2 Think about your role in the body of Christ. Are you serving as God has gifted you? Who was instrumental in your preparation for this role? Where have you received training for service?

Please close in prayer concerning these last questions, humbly bowing before the Lord.

Days 3 and 4 – Titus 1:1-4 1. In the next two days you will spend time studying Titus 1:1-4. Open in prayer asking for the Holy Spirit’s help that you might understand God’s truth, and then proceed with these observation questions. • Look at Titus 1:1-3, reading these verses several times, phrase by phrase. First Paul described the relationship he chose to have with God and then he declared his role in the church. What was the reason Paul gave for these commitments?

•

Paul claimed that the full knowledge of the truth would lead to what quality?

•

What was revealed about God in Titus 1:1-4?

•

At the time the book of Titus was written, authors identified themselves at the beginning of the letter, rather than at the end as we would today. Since they wrote on scrolls, the recipient would have to unroll the entire scroll to see who sent the letter if the writer signed their name at the end. Paul often opened his letters with the words “grace and peace” in his greeting. Charis, the Greek word for grace was the customary greeting among the Greek people of the first century. The Gentile people greeted someone with the word charis, as we would say “Hello.” The word also carried the meaning of something beautiful. The Gentiles believed that when good things happened to them it was because the gods were happy with them, so they would pray and ask for their gods to give them grace. Where did Paul say grace comes from? Answer on the next page. 19

Lesson 2

•

Paul was a Hebrew and had a full knowledge of what was meant by the word peace among the Hebrew people. These verses show God’s perspective on peace, based on the Hebrew word shalom and give an instruction for those who follow God.

A Messianic prophecy (a prophecy concerning the Messiah) in Isaiah 9:6,7

2.

Our responsibility concerning peace from Isaiah 26:3,4

Please examine these word studies for some of the key words used in this passage.

Strong’s # and Transliteration:

Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:

Use of the word in other Scriptures:

4102 pistis pistin Titus 1:1,4

Faith, persuasion, credence, moral conviction (of religious truth, or the truthfulness of God or a religious teacher), especially reliance upon Christ for salvation; assurance, belief, and fidelity. Elect ISV, select, favorite, chosen NASB. The noun form of the word.

Romans 3:28

Full knowledge ISV, recognition, (by implication) full discernment, acknowledge (-ment, or -ing) Truth, true, truly, verity

Ephesians 1:17

1588 eklektos eklekton Titus 1:1 1922 epignosis epignosin Titus 1:1 225 aletheia aletheias Titus 1:1 2150 eusebeia eusebeian Titus 1:1 1680 elpis elpidi Titus 1:2 5485 charis charis Titus 1:4

1515 eirene eirene Titus 1:4 20

Godliness, piety, specially the gospel scheme, holiness. From the prefix eu which means well and sebomai, a Greek word for worship. Hope, to anticipate, usually with pleasure, expectation or confidence, faith. Grace, graciousness, (as gratifying), of manner or act, esp. the divine influence upon the heart, and its reflection in the life; including gratitude, acceptable, benefit, favor, gift, joy, liberality, pleasure, thank (-s, -worthy) Peace, rest, quietness, set at one again, complete

John 15:16

John 14:6 1 Timothy 4:8

Hebrews 11:1,2 Ephesians 2:5-9

Ephesians 2:14-18

Lesson 2 3. The first paragraph of Titus contains many important words that explain essential elements of the doctrine of the Christian faith. The study for the next two days will look into these truths, beyond the definitions of these words as recorded in the word studies. The first word to be studied will be the word faith. The word used does not just mean an intellectual agreement. Begin by reading (outloud, if you can) the context of this word. Paul used the same word (pistin in the Greek) in Titus 1:1 and again in Titus 1:4. The original Webster’s Dictionary gave the definition of the word faith by quoting Hebrews 11:1. Please look at Hebrews 11:1-6 and record the different dimensions of the word faith according to this passage.

4. Please take the time to review what you recorded about faith. What would you share with someone who asked you about your faith? How would you explain your faith to someone based on the definition from the word study and the Scriptures you read?

5. Paul used a simple phrase in Titus 1:1, when he referred to God’s elect, however many have struggled with the doctrine of election. There are several places in the New Testament where this theme is addressed. The apostle Peter wrote about the follower of Christ being chosen as he opened his first epistle. What is the significance of that declaration according to 1 Peter 1:1,2? Please also include why this took place.

6.

Please examine these word studies for words related to the theme of election.

Strong’s # and Transliteration:

Definition from Strong’s unless written in italics:

Use of the word in other Scriptures:

1586 eklegomai exelexato Ephesians 1:4 4309 proorizo prooristhentes Ephesians 1:11

Chose, to select, to choose out. The verbal form of the word elect or chosen. Predestined, predetermine, ordain, determine before, set apart beforehand

Acts 15:7-9 1 Corinthians 2:6-9

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Lesson 2 7.

Now please explain how the word chosen was used in Isaiah 45:4.

8.

Next you will examine these two New Testament passages that use the word chosen. How were you chosen? Romans 8:28-30

Why were you chosen?

1 Peter 2:9,10

9. In understanding the issue of election and predestination, one cannot overlook a truth about God written by the apostle Peter in 2 Peter 3:9. Please read this verse in its context, at least the two verses that come before, or even 2 Peter 3:7-18. How is God described in this passage and what impact does this truth have in this “debate” about election?

10. The apostle Paul used the same expression the knowledge of the truth in 1 Timothy 2:4. Please read that verse and note the similarity with Titus 1:1. Now read Paul’s writing to Timothy in 1 Timothy 6:3-6, focusing on Paul’s use of the word godliness. How would you explain the doctrinal truths of Titus 1:1? Please paraphrase this verse, putting the verse into your own words based on your study.

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Lesson 2 11. Paul asked that “grace and peace be received from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Savior” in Titus 1:4. Grace has been defined by the phrase, unmerited favor and by the acronym, God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense. Believers are the recipients of God’s grace because of Christ’s willingness to sacrifice Himself on our behalf. It is always appropriate to ask for God’s grace to be evident, as sometimes our flesh prohibits us from seeing God’s grace in our own lives. Please write out the truth of Ephesians 2:8,9 and then read Hebrews 2:9 to add to the Ephesians’ passage the price that was paid for your salvation.

Have you ever memorized these verses from Ephesians? Please close by reading these verses several times so that God’s truth will permeate your mind and your spirit. You might close by singing the hymn “Amazing Grace” as an act of worship before the Lord God. “Amazing Grace” Amazing grace, how sweet the sound, that saved a wretch like me! I once was lost, but now am found, was blind but now I see. By John Newton.

Day 5 - Discipleship 1. God has a special blessing in store for you every time you open His word, so look with expectation to His blessing of relationship, as the Holy Spirit will comfort, counsel, teach, and guide you through the lesson when you bow before Him in humility. Now please open with these observation questions. • A discipleship relationship involves one older in their faith coming alongside of someone younger in their faith urging them to obey God’s standard, and encouraging them to continue to grow in their relationship to the Lord. Jesus made a statement to His disciples about how they were to treat others in John 13:34,35 when He said that His disciples were to love one another. Many specific instructions are given in the New Testament regarding the believer’s relationships with others in the body of Christ. These instructions direct Christians as to how they are to relate to one another. Look at how the phrase one another was used in these Scriptures, and then prayerfully consider what makes this command hard for you to obey. Instruction or Command Romans 12:10

What makes this command hard to obey?

Romans 12:16 Romans 14:19 Ephesians 4:32 23

Lesson 2 2. Please take the time to look at these other Scriptures to answer the same question that you thought about in the observation question. Instruction or Command Ephesians 5:21

What makes this command hard to obey?

Hebrews 10:24,25 Galatians 5:13 Colossians 3:9 Hebrews 3:13 James 4:11 James 5:9 James 5:16 1 Peter 4:9

3. Please read the ISV translation of Philippians 2:6-11 as a closing prayer. Ask God to help you have the same attitude that was in Christ Jesus when He was here on the earth. In God’s own form existed he, And shared with God equality, Deemed nothing needed grasping. Instead, poured out in emptiness, A servant’s form did he possess, A mortal man becoming. In human form he chose to be, And lived in all humility, Death on a cross obeying. Now lifted up by God to heaven, A name above all other given, This matchless name possessing. And so, when Jesus’ name is called, The knees of everyone will fall, Where’er they are residing. Then every tongue in one accord, Will say that Jesus Christ is Lord, While God the Father praising.

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Lesson 3

Lesson 3 – Titus 1:5-16 Introduction This week’s lesson will complete Titus 1. What was Paul asking of Titus in this portion of the book? Why was this important for the church? What was Paul’s concern regarding the church on the island of Crete? As you work through this lesson, ask God to help you see the meaning of this passage of Scripture. Ask God to opem your heart to His truth in your own life. Would you be willing to memorize a verse from this week’s lesson as you proceed? Those who follow after God can expect great things to come from having God’s holy and precious word hidden within their spirit.

Days 1 and 2 - Titus 1:5-9 1. Before you begin this week’s lesson, ask God to help you, that the study would go beyond simply reading questions and verses from the Bible. Ask that the Scriptures for the lessons would truly become useful for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness; so that you as God’s child may be complete and thoroughly equipped for every good work, 2 Timothy 3:16,17. Now, read Titus 1 to see how verses 5-9 fit into the context of the entire chapter and then answer these observation questions. • What did Paul say that Titus was to do in Crete?

•

Paul introduced his message to Titus with a general statement in Titus 1:6 that he repeated in Titus 1:7. What did Paul say about an elder in this summary statement?

•

Now please consider Paul’s message concerning elders from Titus 1:6-9 and answer these questions.

How did Paul describe the character of the elder? (What are they to be?)

How did Paul describe the behavior of an elder? (What are they to do?)

What is the spiritual role of the elder according to Titus 1:7,9?

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Lesson 3 •

Jesus Christ taught about His Father and also what it meant to follow after Him as Savior. The apostles’ writing continued with this teaching and they also wrote about the church; writing about how the church was to worship and how it was to function. Long before the coming of Christ, God had established a system for the Hebrew people to worship Him and function as a community of believers. The elders who lead the tribes of Israel were well known among the people. Look at the different roles taken by the elders mentioned in the Old Testament. Please briefly note what God had entrusted to these men and who was involved. a. Exodus 3:16,18 b. Exodus 24:9-11 c. Deuteronomy 21:18-21 d. 1 Samuel 8:4,5 e. 2 Samuel 5:3 f. 1 Kings 8:1-3

2.

Please examine these word studies for some of the key words used in this passage.

Strong’s # and Transliteration:

Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:

Use of the word in other Scriptures:

4245 presbuteros presbuterous Titus 1:5 410 anegkletos anegkletos Titus 1:6

Elders, older, a senior. Can be used either in the masculine or feminine form. Blameless, above reproach, (to be) unaccused, irreproachable

1 Peter 5:1,5

435 aner aner Titus 1:6 810 asotia asotias Titus 1:6 506 anupotaktos anupotakta Titus 1:6 anupotaktoi Titus 1:10

Husband, man, fellow, sir. Could have 1 Timothy 3:2 been translated “a one woman man,” meaning not a ladies man. Wild life-styles ISV, riot KJV, Ephesians 5:18 dissipation NASB, also excess.

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Rebellious ISV, rebellion, unruly, unsubdued, disobedient, insubordinate (in fact or temper), one that will not be “put under” another

Colossians 1:21,22

Hebrews 2:8 (not subject to, NASB)

Lesson 3 Strong’s # and Transliteration:

Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:

Use of the word in other Scriptures:

1985 episkopos episkopon Titus 1:7 3623 oikonomos oikonomon Titus 1:7 829 authades authade Titus 1:7

Overseer ISV, bishop KJV, superintendent, officer of the church

Acts 20:28

Administrator, steward, a house manager, overseer, preacher of the gospel Arrogant ISV, self-willed KJV, selfpleasing

1 Corinthians 4:1,2

3711 orgilos orgilon Titus 1:7 3943 paroinos paroinon Titus 1:7

Irritable ISV, soon angry KJV, quicktempered, irascible

Ephesians 4:26

Drink too much ISV, given to wine KJV, addicted to wine, staying near wine

Used twice in the New Testament. 1 Timothy 3:3

4131 plektes plekten Titus 1:7

Violent person ISV, striker KJV, Used twice in the New Testament. pugnacious. The word comes from pug, 1 Timothy 3:3 short for pugilist, or boxer.

146 aischrokerdes aischrokerde Titus 1:7

Use shameful ways to make money, sordid gain, given to (greedy of) filthy lucre

Used three times in the New Testament. 1 Timothy 3:3,8

5382 philoxenos philoxenon Titus 1:8 5358 philagathos philagathon Titus 1:8 4998 sophron sophrona Titus 1:8 1342 dikaios dikaion Titus 1:8 3741 hosios hosion Titus 1:8 1468 egkrates egkrate Titus 1:8

Lover of strangers, hospitable, fond of guests

1 Peter 4:9

Lover of goodness, fond of good, promoter of virtue, love of good

2 Timothy 3:3

Sensible, safe (sound) in mind, selfcontrolled, discreet, sober, temperate

2 Timothy 1:7

Honest, just, equitable, innocent, holy, right (eous)

Hebrews 11:4 (righteous)

Moral, devout, right, holy, mercy

1 Thessalonians 2:10

Self-controlled, strong in a thing, temperate

1 Corinthians 9:25

Used two times in the New Testament. 2 Peter 2:10

3. The New Testament contains other teaching concerning elders. Please read 1 Timothy 3:1-7 and 1 Peter 5:1-5 for a fuller understanding of the character and role of an elder in the body of Christ. Compare the information you gathered from Titus 1:5-9 on page 25 and mark the similarities these two passages have with Paul’s teaching to Titus. 27

Lesson 3 How is the character of the elder described? (What are they to be?) 1 Timothy 3:1-7

How is the behavior of an elder described? (What are they to do?)

What is the spiritual role of the elder?

1 Peter 5:1-5

4. These passages are not identical, so please look again to see how the qualifications given to Titus can give you insight into the situation on the island of Crete. Please make note of this here.

5. In Acts 20 Luke recorded a meeting that the apostle Paul had with the elders of the church in Ephesus. Paul’s words to the elders of the church of Ephesus are recorded in Acts 20:28-31. These verses must be read in the context of their passage, so please read Acts 20:17-38. First briefly summarize Paul’s situation and his attitude toward these elders from Ephesus and then record his concern for them and their role in the church. Paul’s situation and attitude: Paul’s instructions for the Ephesian elders:

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Lesson 3 6. What does James 5:14 say about the role of an elder in the body of Christ? Have you ever followed this command? Was there perhaps a time that you should have been obedient to this command and yet you did not? A friend of mine said that there was a time when she should have gone to the elders of our church for prayer, but the pride within her heart prohibited her from asking for prayer. From what you have read about the role of the elder in the church, why was the command of James 5:14 given to the body of Christ? Before you think about this question, please read the verse in its context. Read James 5:13-18 and then meditate on this command.

7. You’ve looked at some very significant Scripture today. You might not see a personal application of the truths taught concerning eldership in the church, but no one in the body of Christ should ignore these truths. What would God want you to do with these verses you have looked at today? Do you know an elder that you could encourage with his role in the church? Is there someone that you could go to for advice concerning a struggle in your life? Who do you turn to when you need help?

What is your responsibility toward the elders in your church? How can you pray for these elders? Can you thank God for the leaders in your church and pray for them regarding these Scriptures that you just studied?

Days 3 and 4 – Titus 1:10-16 1. Look at the word that opens Titus 1:10. This is a word that brings you to a conclusion concerning the preceding paragraph. Whenever you read a term of conclusion, you must go to the paragraph that came before, to read in its context the paragraph introduced with the term of conclusion. So please open by reading Titus 1:5-9 as these are not to be separated from Titus 1:10-16. Pray before beginning that the Lord would reveal to you what He would want you to learn in these next two days. Open with these observation questions. • In Titus 1:10-16, Paul directed Titus concerning a certain group of people in the church. How were these people described in Titus 1:10 and what did Paul say that they were doing? •

According to Titus 1:11,13, what did Paul ask Titus to do concerning these people and why?

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Lesson 3

2.

•

Paul’s quotation in Titus 1:12 is a poem from the honored Cretan philosopher and poet Epimenides, who was born in 659 B.C. The people of Crete even offered sacrifices to Epimenides as they considered him to be a god.2 What was declared about the Cretan people in this poem?

•

There were two Greek words developed because of the character of the people of Crete. The Greek verb kretizo means “to speak like a Cretan,” meaning to lie. The Greek noun kretismos represented the behavior of a Cretan as someone who lies. Look back at the attribute Paul gave to describe God in Titus 1:2. Learning about God and His attributes would minister to the needs of the Cretan people. How did Paul describe the character of the Cretan people that he was concerned about in Titus 1:15,16?

Please examine these word studies for some of the key words used in this passage.

Strong’s # and Transliteration:

Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:

Use of the word in other Scriptures:

3151 mataiologos mataiologoi Titus 1:10

Speak utter nonsense ISV, an idle (i.e. senseless or mischievous) talker, i.e. a wrangler, vain talker. Devoid of force, truth, success, or result.3 Deceive people ISV, a mind misleader, i.e. seducer

Hapax legomen, meaning the only place this word was used in the New Testament.

5423 phrenapates phrenapatai Titus 1:10 4061 peritome peritomes Titus 1:10 5198 hugiaino hugiainosin Titus 1:13,9 Titus 2:2 (sound) 3453 mueo muthois Titus 1:14 2513 katharos kathara Titus 1:15 3392 miaino memiammenois Titus 1:15 2

Converts from Judaism ISV, those of the circumcision NASB, (the rite, the condition of the people, literally or figuratively), circumcised Healthy ISV, to have sound health, i.e. be well (in body), to be uncorrupt (true in doctrine)

Hapax legomen. Romans 2:25

1 Timothy 6:3,4 (sound)

Myths ISV, fables KJV, a tale, fiction

2 Timothy 4:3,4

Clean ISV, pure, literally or figuratively, clear

Matthew 5:8

Corrupt ISV, to sully or taint, i.e. contaminate, defiled

Hebrews 12:15

Henry Alford, The New Testament for English Readers, Chicago, Moody Press, 1958, p. 1422. Kenneth Wuest, Word Studies in the Greek New Testament, Grand Rapids, Wm. B. Eerdmans Pub. Co., 1973, p. 186. 30 3

Lesson 3 Strong’s # and Transliteration:

Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:

Use of the word in other Scriptures:

571 apistos apistois Titus 1:15

Unbelieving ISV, disbelieving, without Christian faith, faithless

2 Corinthians 4:4

3. What did Paul mean when he used the expression “those of the circumcision” in Titus 1:10? The first reference in the Bible to circumcision is found in Genesis 17 where God Himself was talking with Abraham about his future. Please look at the following three portions of Scripture answering the “5 Ws and an H” questions as you read. a. Genesis 17:1-14

b. Jeremiah 31:31-33

c. Hebrews 13:20

4. Now please look further at New Testament teaching on circumcision to see how this issue was brought before the Jerusalem Council for the early church in Acts 15:1-35. What did these leaders say concerning circumcision for those who believe in Jesus Christ?

5. Now please read Paul’s teaching on circumcision to the early church in Galatia. What did Paul teach about circumcision in Galatians 5:6-13?

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Lesson 3 6. Based on what you have studied from both the Old and the New Testaments, please briefly explain circumcision and its impact on “those who are converts from Judaism.”

7. Please turn your attention to the last four verses of Titus 1. Paul wrote an instruction in Titus 1:13 and he also gave the reason for his instruction. What was to be a goal for Titus’ ministry according to this verse? 8. What was a Jewish myth? What is a myth? Did you ever study the genre of the “myth” in a literature class? One definition says that a myth is “traditional story, presented as historical, often purporting to explain some natural phenomenon, as the creation of life, and expressive of the character of people, their gods, culture, heroes, religious beliefs, etc.” 4 Where would you find a myth today that should be rejected?

9. The issue of the words spoken by the rebellious people in Crete was addressed in Titus 1:10-12. Look at what Paul stated about the people in Titus 1:15. What had become corrupted? What was the contrast that Paul made here?

Jesus spoke truth that relates to this in Matthew 15:18,19. Read also Jeremiah 17:9 and summarize what is taught about the heart in these two Scriptures. How would these Scriptures support Paul’s teaching as he expressed his concern to Titus?

10. Stop to think about the problem Paul expressed to Titus in Titus 1:10-16. How would you summarize this situation that Titus faced?

4

Sidney I. Landau, ed., The Doubleday Dictionary, Garden City, Doubleday & Co. Inc., 1975, p. 480. 32

Lesson 3 11. Jesus said, “I am the way and the truth and the life, no one comes to the Father but through Me.” In John 16:13 Jesus explained the role of the Holy Spirit to His disciples, “Yet when the Spirit of truth comes, He will guide you into all truth. For He will not speak on His own accord, but will speak whatever He hears and will declare to you the things that are to come.” Many who deny the sovereignty of God and struggle with His control over the world have joined with those who follow the philosophy of “relativism,” embracing the belief that there is no absolute truth, that everything is relative. These individuals would hold to the idea that what one person considers to be truth, is fine for them, but since there is no absolute truth, they themselves seek a foundation for their world from a different source than the Almighty God. When Jesus was asked what was the greatest commandment He quoted Deuteronomy 6:5, that those who believe in Him were to love the Lord their God with all their heart, soul, and mind. Would you quiet your heart before the Lord God and ask Him if there is a part of your heart or your soul or your mind that does not love Him. How would you describe what it means to love the Lord in this way? Please meditate on this question for a period of time. You might take a walk outside while thinking about this, or you might sit in your favorite spot and quietly meditate.

Jesus had a conversation with a man who shared his response to Jesus by saying, “I believe, help my unbelief.” Could you pray, “Father God, I love you Lord, help me to love you more. Show me any area of my life where I do not completely love you. Show me Lord where I have not completely surrendered to you. I want to love you Lord and be faithful to you above all else. I can pray this because of the sacrifice of Your dear Son who died for my sins that I might be in relationship with you, and it is in the precious and holy name of Jesus I pray this, Amen.” Please end by quieting you heart before the Lord and worshipping Him. Ask that you might know His grace and mercy today. You might close by singing the following hymn as part of your worship time. “Joyful, Joyful We Adore Thee” Joyful, joyful we adore Thee, God of glory, Lord of love; hearts unfold like flowers before Thee, hail Thee as the sun above. Melt the clouds of sin and sadness, drive the dark of doubt away; giver of immortal gladness, fill us with the light of day! Thou art giving and forgiving, ever blessing, ever blest, well-spring of the joy of living, ocean dept of happy rest! Thou the Father, Christ our Brother – All who live in love are Thine; teach us how to love each other, lift us to the joy divine. By Henry Van Dyke and Ludwig Van Beethoven. 33

Lesson 3

Day 5 – Discipleship Lesson 1. Today’s lesson will focus on a responsibility of a disciple of Christ revealed through a theme from the book of Titus. Please open in prayer, thanking God that the Holy Spirit will guide you into the truth as Jesus promised in John 16:13. Begin with these observation questions. • How are the words truth or true used by Paul in Titus 1? Please read through Titus 1 looking for references for the words truth or true, or any word/s that would represent these words in the context of Paul’s letter. Briefly state what Paul said about truth or what is true. •

2.

What difference does truth make in the life of a disciple of Christ?

Please examine these word studies for key words used in the Old Testament.

Strong’s # and Transliteration:

Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:

Use of the word in other Scriptures:

543 Hebrew amen

Amen, sure, in the abstract faithfulness, as an adverb truly, so be it, truth

The word usually used to end prayers. Psalm 41:13

1697 Hebrew dabar

Words, a matter as spoken of, or thing…This word had the meaning of something concrete, something that was definite. The word of the Lord was absolute, what He said would always come to pass.

Exodus 20:1

3. this?

What was recorded about God’s word in Isaiah 55:11? Are there any exceptions to

4. What God said would always come to pass, as His word would never fail. The words spoken by God’s prophets would always come true as well. Many of the Old Testament prophets were introduced by the simple statement, “the word of the Lord came to the prophet…” Please read Hebrews 1:1,2 to see the reminder that was given to the people about God’s truth.

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Lesson 3 5. Now please read what was taught in Proverbs 6:16-19. How does this relate to Paul’s concern relating to truthfulness?

6. Do you adhere to God’s truth as a disciple of Christ? John 8:31,32 records Jesus’ words spoken to those Jews who had believed in Him, “If you continue in my word, you are really my disciples. And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free,” ISV. How can you know what is truth and what is not truth? Teachers in our school system provide for students many “true and false” tests in a variety of subjects. Sometimes these tests were easy, sometimes there is one word or phrase that could be overlooked and perhaps “trick” the student. Do you sometimes have trouble recognizing the truth, and discerning what is error? Please look at these verses to see how you can make God’s truth the standard of your life. a. 2 Corinthians 10:3-5

b. 1 John 4:1-6

You might need to be reminded of this. Is there someone in your life that could help you with this? I have two friends who have the spiritual gift of faith and they freely speak God’s truth to me in the midst of disappointment and sorrow, always pointing to God’s power, His love, and His mercy, no matter the circumstances. What an encouragement these two dear ladies are to me. It is always appropriate to point others to the truth of God’s word. We are not to rely on our feelings in the midst of disappointment, but we must rely on the Lord God Almighty, trusting in His sovereignty and in His word. One does not have to have the gift of faith to encourage others in their time of troubles. Continued on the next page. 35

Lesson 3 As we come to the end of today’s time together, spend some time worshipping the Lord because of who He is. Can you thank Him for making Himself known to you? Can you thank Him for His word, a precious gift that has been given to you? How can you express your praise and adoration to the Lord in the next twenty-four hours?

Will you make the words of this song the intent of your heart? “Take My Life, and Let It Be Consecrated” Take my life, and let it be consecrated, Lord to Thee; take my moments and my days, let them flow in cease-less praise. Take my hands, and let them move at the impulse of Thy love; take my feet, and let them be swift and beautiful for Thee. Take my will, and make it Thine – it shall be no longer mine; take my heart – it is Thine own, it shall be Thy royal throne. Take my love, my Lord, I pour at Thy feet its treasure store; take myself, and I will be ever, only, all for Thee. By Frances Ridley Havergal and John B. Dykes

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Lesson 4

Lesson 4 – Titus 1 Review, Titus 2 Chapter Study, Titus 2:1,2,6-8,15 Introduction You have now studied Titus 1, and this week you will review this chapter looking for the reason Paul wrote this epistle to Titus. The lesson will then introduce the Comprehensive Chapter Study of Titus 2 followed by the study into the instructions given to Titus on behalf of the people on the island of Crete. This week’s discipleship lesson will examine the concept of spiritual formation to see what is involved in becoming “conformed to the image of Christ.” As we move through these lessons remember that you could be memorizing a verse each week, to strengthen your faith and to help you share your faith with others.

Day 1 –Titus 1 Review 1. The focus of today’s lesson will be to review Titus 1. The word review might make you uncomfortable and bring up memories that are less than positive. The reason to review at the end of each chapter is so that you will think back over the chapter you have studied to look for the main ideas or themes of this portion of Scripture. Start by praying and asking God for His help with this and praising the Lord that He has promised that the Holy Spirit will help you. Please read Titus 1 one more time and then answer these questions. • How did Paul identify himself in Titus 1:1-4 and why did Paul minister in this way?

•

Without looking at the text, see how many of the qualifications for an elder you can remember from Titus 1:5-9. Write these out here.

•

Now check the Scripture to see how you did with this. Did you remember all of them? If not, write in the qualifications that you left out.

•

What was Paul’s attitude toward the rebellious people on Crete and what was the principle concern Paul shared in Titus 1:10-16?

•

What did Paul ask Titus to do in Titus 1?

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Lesson 4 2. The goal will now be to reflect back on the message of Titus 1. Look back at your Scripture Worksheets and your marking of the declarative statements, instructions, and exhortation from Titus 1. Using some of the key words written in the text, will you consider a summary statement for each of the sections you studied in this chapter? It might help to write out several summary statements of each section, and then try to limit your statement to no more than five words. List these here as well as in the left hand column of the Theme and Title Chart on page 133 of the Appendix. Titus 1:1-4

Titus 1:5-9

Titus 1:10-16

3. The next part of the lesson is to ask God to show you the theme for Titus 1 based on the main points of each paragraph. Is there one theme that the separate paragraph themes would “fit” under? Sometimes you can take some of the key words from the paragraph themes and write those into a theme or title for the chapter. You might be thinking, “It is too hard, I cannot do that.” Pray and ask for the help of the Holy Spirit, as Jesus called the Holy Spirit the Spirit of truth when He declared that this One from God would help all who follow after Christ. Pray about this part of the lesson, and then read through these paragraph themes you listed above to do this. Now list your title for Titus 1 here and on the Theme and Title Chart in the Appendix on page 133.

4. As you close today please pray for the leaders in your church. Do you know the names of those who serve as elders in your church? They have a serious calling and need the support of the people with whom they minister. Pray that they would continue to be faithful and love the Lord with all their heart, mind, soul, and strength. Pray that each elder’s love for the Lord would be their motivation for serving the Lord’s people in the body of Christ.

Day 2 – Titus 2 Comprehensive Chapter Study 1. Today you will spend time going through an observation process called the Comprehensive Chapter Study. The lesson will observe the Scripture Worksheets for Titus 2. Open in prayer asking for the Lord’s help and then read the entire chapter paying 38

Lesson 4 attention to the key words that are repeated. You can refer to the Appendix pages 128, 129, and 131 for help with the inductive chapter study observation process. •

Mark the key words in Titus 2. Now is the time to list what is being taught concerning the key words of Titus 2, by writing a list of what is being stated about the key word when the author used the word. You can place these lists directly on the Scripture Worksheets in the right-hand margin under the heading of the key word, or place your lists on a separate sheet of paper. List the key words of Titus 2 here.

2. As you read the chapter, you can also look for contrasts and comparisons that the author used. Refer to Appendix pages 129 and 131, and then write those here in the space provided, or mark your Scripture Worksheets in some way to show these contrasts and comparisons. Contrasts (to show differences/opposites)

Comparisons (to show similarities and connections, using the words as or like)

3. Now you will again focus on the ways Paul communicated in Titus 2 to help you see the author’s purpose, so keep reminding yourself that going through this process will be helpful to your understanding of the book. a. Titus 2 contains declarative statements that teach God’s purpose and plan for men and women. Titus 2:2-5,9,10 are declarative statements, containing important teaching for Titus, as well as for the church today. Mark these declarative statements in some way. b. Remember that the instructions in the book of Titus can be found with the help of several clues. Instructions were generally written as commands, where the author tells the recipient or recipients to “do something” or in a narrative passage of Scripture where someone is given an instruction. Some of the verbs or words that express action were written in the imperative mood, which means that they are statements written as commands to be followed by those hearing the words or receiving the book or letter. These imperatives were generally written in the second person, addressing the recipients as “you or your” or sometimes the “you” is understood but not actually stated in the sentence. In the Koine Greek that was used for the New Testament, the verbs written in the imperative mood are easy to differentiate, because 39

Lesson 4 the imperative mood has a different ending than other verb forms. However, even when you do not know the specific Greek word that was used, you can tell when a verb is in the imperative form by the intent of the sentence. Titus 2:1,6,7,8a,15 are all instructions. Read these and mark these in some way. c. Continue by marking the exhortations from Paul to Titus. Remember that the word exhortation comes from the word exhort which is used in the New Testament to mean coming alongside of someone to remind them of God’s truth, and perhaps urging them to be obedient to the word of God. Exhortations can also be general statements without reference to a specific person, and might be stated in the form of something that is promised from God. Read Titus 2:11-14 and see if you agree that these verses would be considered an exhortation. Mark these exhortations in some way. d. Sometimes Scripture will confront a specific behavior of the recipient or recipients that has not honored God. The Bible contains admonitions that call the believer to consider their lifestyle choices, recognizing that God is aware of the thoughts and actions of each of His children. I think that Titus 2:8b is an admonition. Read this verse to see why I have decided that. 4. Look for terms of expression that help you understand time, with words like “now, then, later,” etc. and mark these in a consistent way. Another means of understanding language is to examine the way verbs are used in writing. A simple explanation of verbs is that they are words that express action or the state of being, and they relate the words communicated within a framework of time. Verbs communicate that something is happening at the moment, or has happened in the past, or will happen in the future. (The verbs in the preceding sentence are in italics.) Verbs can also announce that an event has already taken place and the results of that event are continuing at the present time. Would you take the time to read Titus 2 looking for the different verb tenses that were used, noting in the left hand margin references to the future, the present, or the past. This can add another dimension to your study, not because you will be studying verbs, but this will help you see what God has done in the past, what He is doing in your life today, as well as show you what the future holds. 5. Mark words that express conclusion or show results or purpose with words like “for,” “for this reason,” “so that,” and “because.” Words that express conclusion are important to note because they show why the author wrote what he wrote and help you see the promises or consequences that will come. 6. 2 Timothy 3:16,17 says that “All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, so that the person who belongs to God may be complete and thoroughly equipped for every good work,” ISV. What have you read today that the Lord can use to equip you for every good work?

Continued on the next page. 40

Lesson 4 What truth in Titus 2 caused you to think about your own life and lifestyle? Meditate on this truth so that God’s word would be for you today what God longs for His word to be in your spirit. You might close by singing a song of adoration and praise to God. Here’s a hymn as one suggestion! “Holy, Holy, Holy” Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty! Early in the morning our song shall rise to Thee; holy, holy, holy! Merciful and mighty! God in three persons, blessed Trinity! Holy, holy, holy, though the darkness hide Thee, though the eye of sinful man Thy glory may not see; only Thou art holy - there is none beside Thee perfect in pow’r, in love and purity. By Reginald Heber and John B. Dykes

Day 3 – Titus 2:1,7,8,15 1. Today’s lesson will look at the commands that Paul specifically wrote to Titus in Titus 2:1,7,8,15. What do these four verses reveal about Titus’ ministry with the people on the island of Crete? Open in prayer before you read today’s verses, so that these Scriptures might help you see the purpose for Paul’s letter. Begin with these observation questions. • Why did Paul begin his instruction of Titus 2:1 with the (adversative) conjunction but?

2.

•

What specifically did Paul direct Titus to do in Titus 2:1,7,8,15?

•

What was the reason Paul gave for Titus to follow these instructions?

Please examine these word studies for some of the key words used in this passage.

Strong’s # and Transliteration:

Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:

Use of the word in other Scriptures:

2980 laleo lalei Titus 2:1 5198 hugiaino hugiainose Titus 2:1 Titus 1:9,13 1319 didaskalia didaskalia Titus 2:1 5179 tupos tupon Titus 2:7

Teach ISV, speak NASB, i.e. utter words, preach, say, talk, tell

John 3:11

Healthy, sound NASB, NIV, to have sound health, i.e. be well (in body), to be uncorrupt (true in doctrine)

1 Timothy 6:3,4 (sound)

Doctrine, instruction, (the function or the information), learning, teaching

Ephesians 4:14

Example, a die (as struck), a stamp or scar, a shape, i.e. a statue, a model for imitation

1 Timothy 4:12

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Lesson 4 Strong’s # and Transliteration:

Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:

Use of the word in other Scriptures:

2041 ergon ergon Titus 2:7,14 1319 didaskalia didaskalia Titus 2:7 90 adiaphthoria aphthorian Titus 2:7 4587 semnotes semnoteta Titus 2:7

Works ISV, deeds NASB, toil, (as an effort or occupation), an act, labor

2 Timothy 2:21

Teach ISV, instruction, the teaching, learning

Titus 1:9, 2:1

Integrity ISV, incorruptibleness, uncorruptness.

Hapax legomen.

Dignity ISV, venerableness, grave, honest. The ability to perform one’s duties as a citizen while drawing respect and reverence.5 Wholesome ISV, healthy, i.e. well in body; true (in doctrine): sound

1 Timothy 3:4

5199 hugies hugin Titus 2:8

All other references using this word refer to being made physically healthy again. John 5:4

3056 logos logon Titus2:8

Speech ISV, something said, (including the thought). By implication, a topic (subject of discourse), also reasoning.

John 1:1 (word)

176 akatagnostos akatagnoston Titus 2:8 3870 parakaleo parakalei Titus 2:15

Cannot be condemned ISV, beyond reproach NASB, soundness NIV, unblammable Encourage, to call near, i.e. invite, invoke (by imploration, [ex]hortation, or consolation), (be of good) comfort, give exhortation Refute, to confute, admonish, convict, convince, tell a fault, reprove

Hapax legomen.

Authority ISV, an injunction or decree, authoritativeness, commandment, command

Titus 1:3 (command)

1651 elegcho elegche Titus 2:15 2003 epitage epitages Titus 2:15

Hebrews 3:13

Hebrews 12:5

3. Please look at the word healthy from today’s word studies and then record what Paul said when he used the word healthy in Titus 1:9,13,2:1,2:2.

5

Zodhiates, p. 954. 42

Lesson 4 Why was this word (that the ISV translated as) healthy so important to Paul?

4.

According to Paul’s letter to Titus, what would be the opposite of healthy doctrine?

5. Throughout Titus, Paul gave reminders of what Titus was to teach to the members of the Cretan church. In today’s Scripture, Titus was also instructed as to the character qualities he needed to have to be an example for the church. Look at these Scriptures to see what Paul said using the same word example. a. Briefly explain what Paul said about the Hebrew people in 1 Corinthians 10:6-11 and why did he write this to the Gentile believers in Corinth?

b. What did Paul say about himself in relationship to the believers in Philippi in Philippians 3:17? c. What was Paul’s instruction to Titus in Titus 2:7?

6. The responsibility of encouraging people in the body of Christ is a two-sided calling. The word encourage in biblical Greek means to come along side of someone and comfort and affirm them while also calling them to live a life of obedience to God’s standard. Are you willing to be encouraged? Are you willing to be refuted or admonished? Are you willing to submit to the leadership of your church? Have you been frustrated with the leadership of your church and “looked down on” someone that God has placed in authority over you? If you have a negative response to any of these closing questions, please close by examining your heart regarding this area of being under the authority of the leaders in your church. You might take a walk and spend time praying about this while seeking the mind of Christ, as He will always lead you into the path of righteousness.

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Lesson 4

Day 4 – Titus 2:2,6 1. Open your time today by thanking God for His help with the lesson and praising Him for His faithfulness. Ask God to help you have a desire to study His word and grow in the knowledge and grace of the Lord Jesus Christ. God will always answer a prayer where you humble yourself before Him to seek His truth as He delights to have His children spend time with Him in His holy word. Now begin with these observation questions. • While today’s focus will be on Titus 2:2,6 please read the first three paragraphs in Titus 2, Titus 2:1-10. Now write down the reasons given for these instructions in Titus 2:5,10.

2.

•

The word translated as older men in Titus 2:2 is the same word that Paul used in Titus 1:5 that was translated as elders. Please read again the context of these two verses, and explain who Paul addressed in Titus 2:2.

•

Please read Titus 2:2 over again and consider what was meant by this short sentence. Would you take the time to draw a diagram that would illustrate or represent the truths in this verse?

•

What was the command given to Titus concerning younger men? Please examine these word studies for some of the key words used in this passage.

Strong’s # and Transliteration:

Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:

Use of the word in other Scriptures:

4246 presbutes presbutas Titus 2:2

Older men, aged KJV, an old man. The Hebrew author, Philo, a Greek scholar in the first century, said this was a man over fifty-five years old. Sober ISV, temperate, circumspect, vigilant

Luke 1:18 (Zacharius)

Serious ISV, grave KJV, dignified, honorable, honest

Philippians 4:8 (honorable)

3524 nephaleos nephalious Titus 2:2 4586 semnos semnous Titus 2:2,8 44

1 Timothy 3:2,11

Lesson 4 Strong’s # and Transliteration:

Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:

Use of the word in other Scriptures:

4998 sophron sophronas Titus 2:2,5

Sensible ISV, temperate KJV, safe (sound) in mind, i.e. self-controlled (moderate as to opinion or passion), discreet, the noun form of the word Sound ISV, healthy, i.e. well (in body), figuratively, true (in doctrine), whole, wholesome Faithfulness ISV, faith NASB, persuasion, moral conviction (of religious truth, or the truthfulness of God or a religious teacher), esp. reliance upon Christ for salvation Love, charity KJV, i.e. affection benevolence, a love feast or feast of charity, dear Endurance ISV, patience KJV, cheerful (or hopeful), constancy, perseverance NASB, enduring, patient, continuance (waiting) (To be) sensible, (from 4998, see above), to be of sound mind, i.e. sane, moderate, be in right mind, be sober (minded), soberly; the verbal form of the word

Titus 1:8

5199 hugies hugiainontas Titus 2:2 4102 pistis pistei Titus 2:2 26 agape agape Titus 2:2 5281 hupomone hupomone Titus 2:2 4993 sophroneo sophronein Titus 2:6

Titus 2:8 Hebrews 6:1

John 15:12 James 1:3,4 (endurance)

1 Peter 4:7 (note the command that follows this)

3. Now please think about the statements regarding men in Titus 2:2,6. To do this, you might also read verses 7 and 8. From this passage, how would you explain Paul’s concern about the men on the island of Crete? Be aware that sometimes when a command is given, it is because the opposite of what is being asked is what actually exists. Before you answer, identify what the opposite quality would be from those given in today’s verses. a. sober or __________________________ b. serious or _____________________ c. sensible or _______________________ d. sound or _______________________ e. faithfulness or _____________________ f. love or ________________________ g. endurance or ______________________ Now please explain what would seem to be Paul’s concern about the Christian men on the island of Crete.

45

Lesson 4 4. Paul shared with Titus the standard for the men on the island of Crete. This verse could also be translated as the following: Older men are to be sober, serious, sensible, and sound in faithfulness; older men are to be sober, serious, sensible, and sound in love; and older men are to be sober, serious, sensible, and sound in endurance. Based on the word studies for the words Paul used in this verse, how would you explain to someone Paul’s statement of Titus 2:2?

5. How was a Christian man to become the person that Paul was expecting the Cretan men to be? Please look ahead and read Titus 2:11-14 which will be studied in a later lesson. How would you explain the responsibility Paul said believers were to have regarding their lifestyle and attitudes according to Titus 2:11-14?

If you do not consider yourself to be an older person, what is your attitude toward someone who is older? Are you respectful of older people? In the American society youth is revered. Please ask God to reveal your heart toward those who are older. If you are an older person, do you struggle with your place in life and your place in the body of Christ? Have you accepted that God has allowed you to live into your older years and that He has a purpose for you? Maybe you are struggling with this. Read these Scriptures that express God’s heart toward those that are older. God’s instruction to the Hebrew people in Leviticus 19:32 was, “You shall rise up before the grayheaded, and honor the aged, and you shall revere your God; I am the LORD.” Job spoke to his friends and said, “Wisdom is with the aged men, with long life is understanding,” in Job 12:12. A Hebrew song (Psalm 92:12-14) said that “The righteous man who is planted in the house of the LORD will flourish…they will still yield fruit in old age; they shall be full of sap and very green.” Do you have God’s heart toward people who are older? Do you honor the elderly? Next week’s lesson will specifically look into the Titus 2:3-5 passage about older women and their role in the church. The same questions could be asked regarding older women, as God has extended to women a very important role in the body of Christ. Please close by spending some time meditating on the instructions from Titus 2:2,6. You might close with a song of worship before the Lord God, that you might have His heart, and the mind of Christ toward the elderly. 46

Lesson 4

Day 5 - Discipleship Lesson 1. In Titus 2:7,8 Paul directed Titus to “always set an example of good works” for the people on the island of Crete. Paul wrote in his letter to the people of Philippi that the believers were to follow his example and “pay close attention to those who live by the example we have given you,” Philippians 3:17. Paul also wrote to the people in Corinth that he had “the mind of Christ,” in Corinthians 2:16. Years ago the book In His Steps was written telling of a pastor who challenged his congregation to ask themselves the question, “What would Jesus do?” when they were facing any decision. Christ is to be our example as we make decisions day by day. Our behavior is to show our faithfulness to our Lord and Savior. The concept of spiritual formation is being addressed in the Christian community today as a means of challenging believers to make a commitment to faithfully grow in their faith. Of course the literal meaning would be to consider how you are forming your spirit, that part of you that relates to the Lord God Almighty. Robert Mulholland defines the phrase spiritual formation as “being in the process of becoming conformed to the image of Christ for the sake of others.”6 In the book In His Image Mike Wilkins calls the process “Christian transformation,” based on the Romans 12:1,2 passage written by the apostle Paul. Please open in prayer asking God to use His word to strengthen you and cause you to grow in your faith. Begin now with these observation questions. • Based on Romans 8:28-30, who has been appointed to be conformed to the image of God’s Son and why?

2.

6

•

How can believers follow this calling according to Romans 12:1,2?

•

Summarizing the message from Romans 8:29 and 12:1,2. Those who follow Christ are to conform to _________________________________. Those who follow Christ are not to conform to ______________________________. Please examine these word studies for some of the key words used in today’s lesson.

Strong’s # and Transliteration:

Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:

Use of the word in other Scriptures:

4832 summorphos summorphous Romans 8:29

Conformed, jointly formed, similar, fashioned like unto

Used twice in the New Testament. Philippians 3:21

4964 suschematizo suschematizesthe Romans 12:2

Conformed, to fashion alike, conform to the same pattern, fashion self according to

Used twice in the New Testament. 1 Peter 1:14

M. Robert Mulholland Jr., Invitation to a Journey, Downer’s Grove, IL., InterVarsity Press, p. 146. 47

Lesson 4 3. Years ago theologians looked in the New Testament for the ways that Christ and His followers lived their lives and called these practices “spiritual disciplines.” These choices of lifestyle address the question of how someone could continue to grow in their faith and seek to walk in obedience to the Lord. Look at these Scriptures, identifying the activity that was modeled or the attitude that was assumed. Please also consider what that activity or attitude means to you if you in fact are seeking to be conformed to the image of Christ. The answer in the second column might focus on your own growth, or how you could help another grow in their relationship with the Lord. Do this section prayerfully, seeking God’s truth and wisdom. What was modeled or taught? Mark 1:35

What does God want you to do concerning this?

Luke 2:49 Luke 4:4,8,12 Acts 2:42 Acts 13:1-3 Philippians 2:1-4

1 Peter 3:15

4. When the Hebrew people assembled together for worship in their neighborhood synagogues, they would pray specific passages of Scripture that they called “The Shema.” Shema is the Hebrew word for hear, as that is the opening word in Deuteronomy 6:5. The recitation of these Scriptures affirmed their faith in God, and pious Jews said these prayers several times a day. “The Shema” was also spoken as an expression of unity with others. When Jesus was confronted by a Pharisee with the question “Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?” Jesus’ answer was to quote Deuteronomy 6:5, the opening of the well known Hebrew prayer “The Shema.” Jesus said, “‘You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ This is the greatest and most important commandment. The second is like it: ‘You must love your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets depend on these two commandments.” Continued on the next page. 48

Lesson 4 The early Christian church continued with the Old Testament tradition of praying “Shema” and also included verses from the writings of Paul and James to help them acknowledge their faith in God and in their Savior, Jesus Christ. The early church was made up of Jews and Gentiles, and men as well as women worshiped together. How does the Old Testament commandment in Deuteronomy 6:5 (given to the Hebrew people through Moses) relate to Paul’s teaching of Romans 8:29 and Romans 12:1,2? What difference can these truths make in your life?

There are many ways that disciples of Christ can grow in their faith and show the Lord that they love Him. How can you show your devotion to your Savior? Those who study human behavior say that it takes thirty days for a new habit to be formed in someone’s life. Would you close by asking God what is the habit He would like to see formed in your life that your spirit would grow closer to Him. Ask Him to help you form this habit in your life. After your prayer, you might close with this prayer by Ruth Myers. “I praise You that Christ is not…outside me, but a tremendous power inside me, that through Him I am competent to cope with life, to do Your will, to love with Your love, to be more than a conqueror. How I rejoice that I can grow, develop my gifts, enlarge my capacities… that I need not be forever shackled by my past, but that with confidence and joy I can look forward to actually becoming all that You have in mind for me to be.”7 “I Need Thee Every Hour” I need Thee ev’ry hour, stay Thou near by; temptations lose their pow’r when Thou art nigh. I need Thee, O I need Thee, ev’ry hour I need Thee! O bless me now, my Savior – I come to Thee! By Annie S. Hawks and Robert Lowry

7

Ruth Myers, 31 Days of Praise, Sisters OR, Questar Pub., 1994, p. 73.

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Lesson 5

Lesson 5 – Titus 2:3-5 Introduction The Christian church has patterned many ministries for women after the portion of Titus that you will be studying this week. As you examine Titus 2:3-5 you will be looking at the role and the standard that God has asked of women in the body of Christ. Many would see Titus 2 as establishing a standard for a discipling or mentoring ministry within the church, so the lessons this week will reflect on the reasons Paul gave to Titus for the teaching of each group of people in the body of Christ. The theme of discipleship will run through each day’s study instead of just on Day 5. It is my prayer that you might continue to grow in your faith and follow Christ’s command to help another grow in their faith. Do not forget that as you move through these lessons you could memorize a Scripture verse to strengthen your faith or to help you share your faith with others.

Day 1 – Titus 2:3 1. Please open by reading Psalm 5:1-7 as a prayer before the Lord. The word reverence is key in Titus 2:3 and David’s prayer used the word reverence to show his heart for the LORD. Now begin with these observation questions. • Notice the first word in Titus 2:3. What does good biblical interpretation require you to do upon reading this word?

•

Please read Titus 2:3-5 and mark the phrase “to be” in a distinctive way.

•

Will you paraphrase (put into your own words) Titus 2:3-5 using the following chart.

Older women are:

2.

Older women are to encourage:

Why?

Please examine these word studies for some of the key words used in this passage.

Strong’s # and Transliteration:

Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:

Use of the word in other Scriptures:

4247 presbutis presbutidas Titus 2:3 2412 hieroprepes hieroprepeis Titus 2:3

Older women, aged women KJV, an old woman

Hapax legomen.

Reverence for God ISV, as becometh holiness KJV; to act like a sacred person.

Hapax legomen.

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Lesson 5 Strong’s # and Transliteration:

Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:

Use of the word in other Scriptures:

2688 katastema katastemati Titus 2:3 3374 Hebrew yir'ah yirah Psalm 5:7

Behavior ISV, demeanor, a position or condition

Hapax legomen.

Reverence ISV, fear, dreadful, fearfulness, awe. If one recognizes God as all-powerful, this will be reflected in their attitude.8

Psalm 2:11

3. The Greek word Paul used for reverence, hieroprepeis is a compound word from the word hieros, meaning sacred, and the word prepo meaning to become. The Greek word hieron is the word for temple. The Greek word hiereus is the word for priest, the one serving at God’s altar. Considering these word studies, what then is meant by the phrase “older women are to show their reverence for God by their behavior”?

4. What does it mean to be reverent in your attitude toward God? Psalm 2:11 says, “Worship the LORD with reverence and rejoice with trembling,” NASB. The Hebrew word for reverence is listed with the word studies above. Please read Psalm 2:11 in its context and meditate on what it means to have “reverence for God.” Jot down your thoughts about this here.

One way to understand a phrase is to think about what would be the opposite of that phrase. Read Titus 2:3 again and think about what that would be. Older women are “to show their reverence for God by their behavior” or will they show their _______________ for God by their behavior. What does reverence for God mean to you? How are you to become more reverent for God in your own behavior?

How would you answer these statements regarding reverence for God? …reverence for God in the way a woman talks? …reverence for God in the way a woman dresses? …reverence for God in the way a woman spends her time? Continued on the next page.

8

Zodhiates, The Hebrew-Greek Key Study Bible, Chattanooga, AMG Publishers, 1990, p. 1732. 52

Lesson 5 How can you show your reverence for God today? Please humble yourself before God and thank Him for how His word has challenged you today. You might close by singing a hymn or a song that would express your reverence for God.

Day 2 – Titus 2:3 1. Many who follow Christ begin their day by reading God’s word, not necessarily to study that portion of Scripture, but as a quiet act of devotion to the Lord God. This reading of Scripture can be a systematic reading through the Bible with a set schedule so that at the end of a year or two the entire Bible has been read. Some might read a Psalm each day and meditate on these prayers written to God, prayers read by the Hebrew people during their time of worship. Some read a chapter from the book of Proverbs every day, to focus their mind on these words of wisdom. As I am writing today’s lesson it is the tenth of the month and I just read Proverbs 10. As I read this Proverb I saw truths that relate to the choices of Christ’s followers, and explanations of godly behavior. You might open by reading the Proverb that is the number of the day of the month you are doing today’s lesson, or join me in seeing the connection of Proverbs 10 with this week’s lessons, as you will continue to look at the examples of behavior that relate to the instruction of how an older woman is to show reverence for God. Now please pray before opening with these observation questions. • What examples of reverent behavior did Paul give in Titus 2:3, and how would obedience to God’s standard show an older woman’s reverence for God? Behavior:

•

How this would show reverence for God:

In Titus 2:3, Paul said that older women are not to be gossips ISV, which is the Greek word diabolous. This was translated as malicious gossips in the NASB, slanderers in the NIV. The word also meant a false accuser. When this word is in the singular form with the article “the” introducing it, it is translated as the devil, or Satan, as in Ephesians 4:27, “do not give the Devil an opportunity to work.” Stop and think about that association. Now read Proverbs 20:19 and record this statement that relates to the command given to women in Titus 2:3.

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Lesson 5 2.

Please examine these word studies for some of the key words used in this passage.

Strong’s # and Transliteration:

Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:

Use of the word in other Scriptures:

1402 douloo dedoulomenas Titus 2:3 2567 kalodidaskalos kalodidaskalous Titus 2:3 2570 kalos kalos Titus 2:7,14 Titus 3:8,14

Addicted ISV, bring into bondage, to be made a servant. “A relation of dependence upon, or bondage to.”9 Examples of goodness ISV, an example of the right, example of good things

2 Peter 2:19

Good, beautiful, but chiefly good, i.e. valuable or virtuous (for appearance or use, and thus distinguished from agatha, the other word for good which means intrinsic goodness). This also means better, fair, honest, worthy.

Galatians 6:9

Hapax legomen.

Hebrews 10:24

3. Please read two additional verses in Proverbs to see more truth on the topic of gossip. How is gossip described in these two verses? What is associated with gossip? a. Proverbs 17:4 b. Proverbs 17:9 4. Paul wrote that women were not to be gossips. Considering the definition for the word gossip given in Question 1, how would you write this portion of Titus 2:3 in a positive way? Before you write this you might also keep in mind this question, why do women gossip? Women are not to be gossips, but they are …

5. This next section will focus on the phrase used in Titus 2:3, that an older woman is not to be addicted to alcohol. Please record what was written in Proverbs 20:1 concerning this.

6. Have you ever felt as if you were addicted to something? In Titus 1:1 Paul described himself as a servant of God which meant that Paul had made a choice to follow after God and to align himself with his Creator, serving ONLY Him. 9

Zodhiates, The Complete Word Study New Testament, p. 907. 54

Lesson 5 How does being addicted to something compare with being enslaved to God? How can you tell the difference? Addicted to something:

Enslaved to God:

7. There are many causes for compulsive behavior, and usually more than one reason for an individual developing this personality pattern, so that recovery is seldom a simple matter. Compulsive behavior might be caused by the following: •

An unconscious desire or attempt to suspend time, a desire for invincibility, or the drive to fight the aging process, and in fact to achieve immortality.

•

Feelings of inadequacy and shame, often stemming from childhood.

•

Unmet emotional needs, because of the hunger for love each have within.

•

Our deep longing for spiritual fulfillment when one is alienated from God, and in fact, this longing can only be filled by a relationship with God.

•

Distorted thinking, such as “I deserve such and such” generally associated with wanting to feel good or have good things.

•

An underlying rebellion in the individual, to God or anyone in authority over them.

•

Low self-esteem, including a struggle separating who one is from what one does, or how one behaves.

•

Growing up in a home where alcohol or another addiction was present.

In England during the 19th century, a revival led many Christians to a place of humility before God. This Oxford Revival as it was named, contributed teaching concerning what a believer should do to be spiritually whole, and to deal with areas in their life that caused addiction or led to a compulsive behavior. Included in the Appendix is the list of the twelve statements based on Scripture, that later became known as “The Twelve Steps,” forming the basis for the Alcoholic Anonymous program as it is known today. While most AA programs have moved away from the foundation of biblical standards, the original “Twelve Steps” can provide a resource for anyone who struggles with temptations and compulsiveness in their life. Please take the time to study the “Twelve Steps to Wholeness” letting the holy word of God minister to your soul as you process these truths. I would like to mention two valuable resources to help anyone who is struggling with the “recovery process” or has been affected by someone with an addiction. Both of these books were recommended by a Christian counselor, whose clients can use these “workbooks” as homework in between counseling sessions. One excellent Christian reference is The Twelve Steps, A Spiritual Journey and an excellent book from a non-Christian perspective is Repeat After Me, by Claudia Black. Both of these books are listed in the Bibliography in the Appendix. 55

Lesson 5 8. Someone shared this simple quote that expresses a standard that they have vowed before God as the pattern for their life. “I will never talk about you until I talk to you, and then never against you, but only for you.” Please stop to meditate on this statement, and ask God to help you follow this if you have a problem with gossiping about others. Maybe you could write this on a 3” by 5” card and keep this card someplace that would remind you of this commitment, so that you can show reverence for God by not gossiping, slandering, or accusing another. Older women are to be “examples of goodness” in their behavior. Those who follow Christ would certainly not want to be an example of what is not good. This reminded me of Psalm 1 and the admonition given to those who would follow after God’s standard of righteousness. Please read this Psalm listing the three actions that God’s children were not to do. Reflect on these and write out what you are to do instead, according to Psalm 1. Those who follow God are not to: But they are to: a. b. c. How could you teach goodness to others? What would God need to incorporate in your life that you might be an example of goodness?

Please close your time in the word today be reading Psalm 100:1-5 and let these words be your prayer of thanksgiving to the Lord for His goodness and His mercy to you and to all generations.

Day 3 – Titus 2:4 1. The focus of the study today will be on the two commands for young women given in Titus 2:4. These commands fill very little space, and are given with very few words, but the message is significant because of the importance of these standards. Entire books have been written explaining in detail “how to” love one’s husband as well as “how to” love one’s children. Would you please make a sacrifice of time to complete this lesson that you might be open to what God puts on your heart concerning these two imperatives. Begin with prayer asking God for a humble heart and for an open mind concerning your role in your family and in your church. Begin by reading a portion of the teaching psalm of Asaph, Psalm 78:1-8, looking at God’s perspective toward His children, and then open with these observation questions. • Please look at the first verb used in Titus 2:4, and what that word meant in the first century by looking at the word study in Question 2. Write out the other English 56

Lesson 5 words used for the word sophronizosin and consider what that would mean to older women and what it would mean to younger women.

2.

•

As a review, please list what younger women are “to be” according to Titus 2:4.

•

Did Paul put conditions on this standard for younger women? Did Paul say you are to be a lover of your husband if or when “such and such” or “this and that” takes place? Please examine these word studies for some of the key words used in today’s verse.

Strong’s # and Transliteration:

Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:

Use of the word in other Scriptures:

4994 sophronizo sophronizosin Titus 2:4 3501 neos neas Titus 2:4

Encourage ISV, teach to be sober KJV, train NIV, to make of sound mind, to discipline or correct Younger women ISV, new, (of people or of things), used here in the feminine form

Hapax legomen.

5362 philandros philandrous Titus 2:4 5388 philoteknos philoteknous Titus 2:4 5368 phileo phileo John 5:20

Lovers of their husbands ISV, affectionate as a wife: love their husbands, fond of man Lovers of their children ISV, fond of one’s children, i.e. maternal Love, to be a friend (fond of an individual or an object), i.e. have affection for (denoting personal attachment)

The only place in the New Testament where this word refers to a specific individual, instead of just a “new” item. Hapax legomen. Hapax legomen. Matthew 10:37

3. An older woman is to be teaching, training, disciplining, correcting, or encouraging a younger woman regarding her behavior. The older woman is to be an example of goodness, and then Paul shared that this would include encouraging the younger woman to be a lover of her husband. This is a very simple directive, and yet this is very profound. The Bible has significant teaching regarding the marriage relationship in Ephesians 5:21-33. Answer the questions below and think about how the passage in Ephesians relates to Titus 2:4. (The theme of submission will be studied in Days 4 and 5.) What are wives to do?

What are husbands to do?

57

Lesson 5 4. If you have children, consider what gets in the way of you loving your children, or what causes your children to not feel loved? The following are some responses to this question shared by several women that I talked with. Can you add to the list? Is there something that divides your attention, and keeps you from honoring God in your role as a parent? Be honest and ask God to help you answer this question. “When I am angry, my anger gets in the way of my children feeling secure and safe.” “When I demand perfection, my high expectations cause my children to not feel acceptance, and they feel they can never measure up to my standard.” “When I am too busy with other commitments my children do not feel that they have value.” “When I am self-absorbed and do not have a servant heart, and my children do not feel that I care.” “When I am tired, I have a hard time listening and I become unapproachable.”

5. Part of loving children is to study them so that you get to really know them. Ask God for His eyes that you might look and see who God created them to be. Sometimes that means they are like you in some respects and sometimes that means they are like someone else in the family. This very fact might make it hard for you to love them. What should you do about this? Do those personality traits, gestures, mannerisms, or characteristics of their appearance make it difficult for you to love your child? What should you do about that?

Knowing that God has set the standard of Titus 2:4 for all mothers, can you claim Philippians 4:13 as a verse to help you with all things that are difficult? This is a great verse to memorize, both the message and the reference! Write the verse out here and ask God to help you believe this truth.

6.

If you are a married woman please read this section. Is there someone in your life that encourages you to love your husband? This might sound silly, but if you have no one reminding you of the importance of this, your heart can become self absorbed, or so focused on others, your children, your parents, your siblings, or your friends, that your relationship with your husband is not what God would want it to be. The only “thing” that should come between you and your husband is your relationship with God, because God should be the most important priority in your life. When God is first in your life, it will follow that you will seek ways to express love to your husband, as well as to others. Continued on the next page.

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Lesson 5 Paul wrote in Romans 5:5 that the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us. This means to me that when it is God’s will for me to love another, I am able to do that by His grace and by the power of the Holy Spirit. Jesus Christ died that I might be reconciled to God, and it is right that I love my husband, period! Part of the meaning of phileo love includes “having common interests”10 with that person. Do you join your husband in doing what he enjoys doing? If it is not illegal, immoral, or somehow counter to God’s will, then you can pray and ask God how you can join your husband so that you might have common interests together. Will you make a commitment to “having common interests”? How can you be an example of goodness in regard to loving your husband?

Someone said that a marriage with staying power needs two funerals before the wedding, as each who marry must die to themselves before entering into a covenant relationship with another. What do you think about this idea?

7. The incredible thing about God’s creation is that it is His plan for each of His children to be as He created them. Psalm 139:13-16 explains the sovereignty of God the Creator. Loving the Lord God means trusting Him with all that He has created and allowed, as painful and frustrating as that might be. I would challenge you to spend some quiet time alone with the Lord to ask Him what He would want you to face in regard to your attitude toward your husband and/or your children if you are a married woman and have children. If you are not married or do not have children, think of those God has put in your life and how you relate to them. Dr. Gary Chapman teaches that there are five languages of love: expressive words, gifts, touching, acts of service, and spending quality time together.11 It is your responsibility to know the people that God has placed in your life so that you might express love in ways that are understood and appreciated by them. How can you express love to individuals being sensitive to the ways in which they feel loved?

10 11

Zodhiates, Ibid., p. 965. Sandra P. Aldrich, “Five Expressions of Love,” Colorado Springs, Focus on the Family, April 1997, p. 11. 59

Lesson 5

Days 4 and 5 – Titus 2:5 1. Today’s verse expressed more of the qualities that are to define the behavior of women. You could just read these words and not let your mind dwell on their truths and what they are to mean in your own life. Open by reading Titus 2:3-5 and ask God for His help with the decisions you face daily, that His word would not be discredited by your behavior. Now begin with these observation questions. • Younger women are also asked to be sensible! Spiros Zodhiates explained that a sensible person is “a person who limits his own freedom and ability with proper thinking, demonstrating self-control with the proper restraints on all the passions and desires, one who voluntarily places limitations on his freedom. The exact opposite to insolent (hubristes), one whose insolence and contempt of others breaks forth in acts of wantonness and outrage.”12 What action or activity do you need to limit in order to be more sensible in your behavior?

•

Joseph demonstrated the idea of purity when he was the overseer of Potiphar’s house in Egypt. Read Genesis 39:7-12 and summarize how Joseph’s life was an example of someone who was pure in his behavior.

•

If you are a married woman, or responsible for your own home, think about how you “keep” your home. Are you a “worker” in your home, or perhaps you are unmotivated or even lazy? Maybe you are frustrated with the enormity of the task? How do you keep a balance in all of this? Think about these issues and address the concerns that follow.

Areas where I feel adequate as a manager of my household:

•

12

60

Areas where I need (or want) to learn more:

The world has said that we should practice “random acts of kindness,” but as a believer, acts of kindness should be the pattern of our life. Through this lifestyle we

Zodhiates, Ibid., pp. 959,962.

Lesson 5 show our reverence for God. What act of kindness can you show to someone this week? Stop and ask God what act of kindness He would have you “do” this week, and when you have an idea thank Him for His leading. Then ask God to help you honor Him with this act of kindness, that this might show your reverence for Him. This idea might come to you while you are taking a walk. Please allow yourself some time alone with your loving Father, and He will bring to your mind someone in need of an expression of kindness.

•

2.

What is a wife asked to do in Titus 2:5 and why?

Please examine these word studies for some of the key words used in today’s verse.

Strong’s # and Transliteration:

Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:

Use of the word in other Scriptures:

4998 sophron sophronos Titus 2:5

Sensible ISV, temperate KJV, safe (sound) in mind, i.e. self-controlled (moderate as to opinion or passion), discreet, prudent Pure ISV, clean, innocent, modest, perfect, chaste. “An adjective used to express freedom from defilements or impurities.”13

Titus 2:2

Managers of their households ISV, one who stays at home, i.e. domestically inclined, keeper at home. “To look after domestic affairs with prudence and care.”14 Kind ISV, good, benefit, good things, well; useful

Hapax legomen. From the two words, oikos (home) and ouros (guard, or beware)

53 hagnos hagnos Titus 2:5 3626 oikourgos oikourgous Titus 2:5 18 agathos agathas Titus 2:5 5293 hupotasso hupotassomenas Titus 2:5 987 blasphemeo blasphemetai Titus 2:5

13 14

Philippians 4:8

Colossians 1:9,10 (good)

Submit themselves, to subordinate, to obey, be under obedience, put under, subdue, subject to

Hebrew 12:9

Discredited, to vilify, to speak impiously, defame, revile, speak evil, dishonored NASB, malign NIV, blasphemed

Titus 3:2

Ibid., p. 879. Ibid., p. 940. 61

Lesson 5 3. What can get in the way of someone living a pure life? The answer to this would probably be different depending on the culture of the community where one lives. Have you allowed impurities to enter your life? This will certainly impact your purity. Consider what influences your purity and what causes your thinking and your lifestyle to be impure?

What should you do about these temptations? Please take the time to stop and ask God what you should do about the temptation in your life regarding the pull in your spirit toward impurity. Now please read James 4:7-10 and see if your ideas line up with what James wrote to the scattered, persecuted church in the first century.

4. Titus includes the standard that women are to be “managers of their households” ISV, “workers at home,” NASB, or “keepers at home” in the KJV. This passage has caused controversy over the years. How are Christians to interpret this phrase, “managers of their households”? On one side of the debate there are those who say a woman is not supposed to work outside of the home and they base that statement on Titus 2:5. Many women find themselves in a position where they have to seek employment outside their home, some part time and some full time. This is a decision that requires communication between the husband and wife, as well as prayer in which they together seek God’s wisdom. When a wife works outside the home, many couples share the responsibilities in the home, recognizing that the task of keeping the home as well as working full time can be difficult. Many Christian authors have addressed this issue. Some have suggested ways a woman can have an income without working outside the home. Economic concerns can outweigh the emotional and spiritual needs of the home. How should one balance all of this and come to a place of agreement with the Lord and within one’s marriage and family?

5. It is possible for someone to be aware of their own weaknesses, and to perhaps be overly critical. On the other hand, sometimes the temptation is to ignore one’s weaknesses and not deal with an area of life where one needs to repent, learn, and grow. Those who follow after Christ must ask God for His wisdom, to know what needs to be done. One part of this is for a woman to accept the talents God has given, and to accept the reality that there are certain talents He has not given. Beyond these God-given talents, there are certain skills that can be learned from others and then incorporated into your life. How could you go about learning a new skill, technique, or interest that would benefit your role in your home? Maybe you are supposed to ask for help in this area from a friend or an older woman. Some communities have adult education classes available or offer courses at a 62

Lesson 5 community center or a community college. Ask others if they know of a place where you could receive training to help you become the manager at home that God desires you to be. Ask God to help you answer the questions that follow and then trust in His leading regarding this. At this point in time, what should you do yourself to “manage your home”?

What can you train others Consider whether there is an to do to contribute to the area have you emphasized order in your home? that you need to relinquish?

6. Two more standards remain! Younger women are told to be kind. A simple way to understand this is that to be kind is to be useful. Would others describe you as a kind person? Is there something in your life that gets in the way of you being kind to others?

7. This paragraph is for those women who over commit themselves on a regular basis. Is this you? Maybe the desire of your heart is to be good to people and do more than you should. Even “doing good” can be a temptation or scheme from the enemy to keep Christians so busy that they are not in God’s will. It is easy for some to do “too much” for others or to want to meet every need they are aware of, when actually someone else could help. Perhaps the person in need could be more active themselves instead of allowing others to do what God would want them to do personally. Christians need to be sensitive to the Lord’s leading and “do” what He wants His followers to do, and not “do” everything that needs to be done. This can really be an issue in your life, and if it is, maybe you need to ask someone to hold you accountable with this temptation. Some women read Proverbs 31 and feel very guilty because they do not see themselves living the same way as that “excellent woman.” Please ask God for His leading and for His will in your life, so that you do not fall into the temptation of living by the world’s standard. Take some time to pray about this, seeking God’s will for your life, trusting Him in all things. 8. The last direction for young women in Titus 2:5 has to do with the wife’s relationship with her husband. You read the definition of the word “to submit themselves” in Question 2. Who have you seen model a submissive attitude? What does it look like when a wife submits herself to her husband?

Who have you seen that did not model submission? What does this look like?

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Lesson 5 9. Many women have become followers of Christ before their husband chose to follow Christ. Does a woman only have to submit to her husband if he is a Christian and seeks to honor God with his life? Please look at what Peter wrote about this in 1 Peter 3:1-6. What is a woman’s attitude to be?

Who is the role model and why?

10. In the early church, the apostles Peter and John were arrested, and Acts 4:19,20 recorded their unique reply when they were brought before the Council. What does this say to Christian women who are in a marriage where it is difficult to share their faith? Should they be silent about their relationship with the Lord? What did Peter and John say in response to the Council telling them “not to speak or teach at all in the name of Jesus?”

11.

If you are a married woman please read this section. Think back now and try to remember a time when your flesh did not want to submit to your husband and you did not. Now think back to a time when your flesh did not want to submit, but you did anyway. Do you see how the consequences of your attitude and response demonstrate God’s will and God’s blessing for obedience to His word? What would God want you to learn from these events? How is this issue of submission related to your relationship with the Lord? What can you do to determine to follow these commands of being loving and submissive towards your husband? Is there an older woman you might ask to hold you accountable so that you might show your reverence for God by your behavior? Stop and pray about this challenge and check to see what God has in mind for you.

12. The world recognizes the value of a relationship where an older (more experienced) person comes alongside of a younger (less experienced) person and offers support and wisdom for dealing with complex issues in life. Several of these programs are explained below, and you might know of others. Please read this section and think about how this type of program could be incorporated into your church. Continued on the next page. 64

Lesson 5 a. Most school districts offer a teacher mentoring program in their school system. This program would pair a “new” teacher with a more experienced teacher, preferably within the same grade level or department during the “new” teacher’s first year of employment. b. The California school system has a program for students who are seen as “at risk” of not completing school. The director of each school’s program seeks out responsible adults in the community to mentor these “at risk” students throughout the school year. c. An idea that is being implemented in corporate America is for individuals to seek the counsel of a consultant who serves as a career counselor and coach, offering insight and expertise regarding their career. These consultants are paid for their impartial opinion. d. The Twelve Step program created to help individuals with addiction asks its participants to meet with a “sponsor” on a regular basis. The sponsor is someone who has experience with the process and is willing to be available to support and counsel the one who is newer in the battle.

Are you a man that could demonstrate a lifestyle that is sober, serious, sensible, and sound in faithfulness, love and endurance to a younger man? Are you a woman that shows reverence for God by your behavior and could come alongside of a younger woman? Would you be willing to pass along your experience to someone younger in their Christian walk? Will you pray about being obedient to Christ’s command to make disciples? Oswald Chambers said, “If we walk in the light as God is in the light, God will give us communion with people for whom we have no natural affinity.” 15 That is a thought provoking statement! Some are hesitant concerning being in a discipleship relationship because they feel that it will be hard to find someone with whom they “match up.” I am sure each Christian could come up with many other excuses for avoiding the command to be a part of “making disciples.” Was there an older Christian in your life when you were a “new” Christian who spent time with you and helped you understand your faith in Christ? You can thank God that you had that blessing. Have you had the privilege of being an older believer to a younger believer? If not, what has prevented you from taking that role in a younger believer’s life? If you have never been discipled, but you are this far in this study, you are obviously serious about your faith, and might simply set aside the fact that you were never discipled, and ask God who He would want you to disciple. Will you step out in faith and take the role of a spiritual mentor in a younger believer’s life? Has the Lord moved in your heart so that you might take a step of faith and trust God enough to serve Him and His church in this way? Pray about it, and trust Him to lead you, He always will. I am convinced that if you asked a pastor in your church if there is a new believer you might disciple, the pastor would be DELIGHTED, and would probably be able to suggest someone to you. A pastor who works with the youth in your church would have names of young people who would benefit from this commitment. Continued on the next page.

15

Oswald Chambers, My Utmost for His Highest, New York, Dodd, Mead and Company, 1935, p. 264. 65

Lesson 5 If you are a younger believer, is your heart ready to be taught by an older Christian? Hebrew rabbis recorded in their writings called the Talmud, “when the heart is ready, the teacher will come.” Are you ready to accept the counsel of an older believer? Will you extend God’s grace toward others in the church through a ministry of discipleship? Please close your time in prayer and perhaps by singing a song of worship. You might sing this song if you know the melody and it expresses your heart toward the Lord. “’Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus” ‘Tis so sweet to trust in Jesus, just to take Him at His word; just to rest upon His promise, and to know “Thus saith the Lord.” Chorus: Jesus, Jesus, how I trust Him! How I’ve proved Him o’er and o’er! Jesus, Jesus, precious Jesus! O for grace to trust Him more! O how sweet to trust in Jesus, just to trust His cleansing blood, just in simple faith to plunge me ‘neath the healing, cleansing flood! Chorus: I’m so glad I learned to trust Him, precious Jesus, Savior, Friend; and I know that He is with me, will be with me to the end. Chorus: By Louisa M.R. Stead and William J. Kirkpatrick

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Lesson 6

Lesson 6 – Titus 2:9-14, Titus 2 Review Introduction This week you will complete the study of Titus 2, and then review the chapter. Paul gave Titus instructions for older men, older women, younger women, younger men, and then slaves. Historians believe in the first century, one out of three people living in Rome were slaves, and in the rest of the Roman Empire, the ratio was one out of every five. It puzzles people as to why Jesus and His apostles did not call for slavery to be abolished. Many believe that since “slavery was so much a part of their society that to call for abolition would have resulted in violence and bloodshed.”16 You will see that there was a standard for slaves as well as masters in New Testament Scripture. A friend of mine came to the Lord in her thirties and a couple in the church came to her and her husband and asked if they wanted to meet weekly to study the Bible and “be discipled.” My friend and her husband were not familiar with what it meant to “be discipled,” but they agreed anyway and all four of the people were blessed. Besides studying the Bible together, they also went along with this older couple to some special events at other Christian churches in the area, and they simply spent time together. These new Christians grew in their faith and they had a place to go to ask questions about what it meant to follow Christ. Who do you know who is new in their faith, and has not yet been discipled?

Day 1 – Titus 9,10 1. Theodore Epp wrote concerning the understanding of Scripture, “If someone were to speak to me in Russian or in Greek or some other foreign language, I would need an interpreter to tell me what was said. This is the way it is in understanding the word of God. We must have someone to open up the spiritual realm of the word, because the human mind without the aid of the Holy Spirit just cannot comprehend it.”17 Many people believe that today’s passage can be applied to those who have a job working for someone else. Keep this in mind as you proceed through this lesson, to see if you would agree with this position. This would lead to the step in inductive study called principlization, seeing eternal principles in Scripture that can be applied to your own life. This involves looking beyond the context of the verse, to see how the doctrinal truths in the Scripture relate to today. Join me in praying this simple prayer, “Thank You Lord for providing all that I need for eternal life and godliness, and for Your gift to me of the Holy Spirit. It is through your precious Son that I can come to You, Father God, and I do come with a grateful heart, as I pray in Christ’s holy name, Amen.” Now please begin with these observation questions. • Look at what Paul asked of slaves in Titus 2:9,10, and think about why this was important. What was to be the attitude and behavior of slaves?

16 17

Why was this important?

Trent C. Butler, ed., Holman Bible Dictionary, Nashville, Holman Bible Publishers, 1991, p. 1286. Theodore Epp, The Other Comforter, Lincoln, NE, Back to the Bible Broadcast, 1956, p. 203. 67

Lesson 6

2.

•

How did Paul describe God in Titus 2:10?

•

Now please read ahead to a verse you will study in the next two days, Titus 2:13. How did Paul describe God in this verse? Please examine these word studies for some of the key words used in this passage.

Strong’s # and Transliteration:

Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:

Use of the word in other Scriptures:

1401 doulos doulous Titus 2:9 Titus 1:1

Slaves ISV, servants KJV, bond slaves NASB, frequently in a qualified sense of subjection or subserviency. “One who is in a permanent relationship with another, with his will altogether consumed in the will of the other.”18 Submit (themselves) ISV, obedient KJV, to subordinate, to obey, put under, be subject to

Romans 6:17,18

5293 hupotasso hupotassesthai Titus 2:9 Titus 2:5 1203 despotes despotais Titus 2:9 2885 kosmeo kosmosin Titus 2:10

Masters, an absolute ruler, lord. “Wields unlimited authority not always for good.”19 Attractive ISV and NIV, adorn NASB, to put in proper order, i.e. decorate, garnish, trim; to embellish with honor.20

1 Peter 2:18,19

1 Peter 2:18 Revelation 21:2,19

3. In the New Testament, the words master and lord can be one of two Greek words. In Titus 2:10 Paul used a different word from the word people used to address Jesus Christ. Jesus was addressed as kurios, which described a master or lord who exercised his authority for good. The word in Titus 2:10 described someone who might not always be fair or just in his dealings with those that he had authority over. Please read 1 Timothy 6:1,2 to see another place Paul used the same word for master. What did Paul ask of slaves in these verses and why? What was to be the attitude and behavior of slaves? Why was this important?

18 19 20

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Zodhiates, Ibid., p. 907. Ibid., p. 901. Kenneth Wuest, Word Studies in the Greek New Testament, Grand Rapids, Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., 1952, p. 193.

Lesson 6 4. Paul also addressed the believers in Colossae concerning the role of the slave in their city. According to Colossians 3:22-24, what were slaves to do and how was this possible? What were slaves to do?

How were they to do this and why?

5. Paul said that older women were to show their reverence for God by their behavior. What was to be the result of an obedient lifestyle for a slave?

Henry Alford quotes Calvin who taught that slaves were considered to be so lowly in status and the fact that they could “adorn” the doctrine of God showed God’s acceptance of them as believers.21 Please write out the truth Paul shared with the people of Galatia in Galatians 3:28 to see God’s heart toward people who would have been considered “outside of Israel.”

Do you have a job outside of your home where you answer to an employer? What is your attitude toward that individual? Do you need to work on this? God will help you soften your heart toward others. God will give you wisdom to know how to work toward reconciliation with others. God will help you submit to anyone who is in authority over you. One amazing way this can happen is to faithfully pray for the person you are struggling with. When you continue to pray for the individual, your heart will change. God might lead you to change from one job to another. Trust Him with what you are to do. It might give you clarity in your thinking if you make a list of the advantages and drawbacks of your present job, and then pray about what you are to do next. One other way to look at Titus 2:9 and the first part of 10 is to see if that is your heart attitude toward God Himself. Have you made God your Master? Remember Paul called himself a servant of God in Titus 1:1. Do you consider yourself to be a servant of God? Are you daily submitting yourself to Him in everything? Do you aim to please God? Do you argue with Him when He has made His will known through His word and through His leading? Do you show complete and perfect loyalty toward Him so that the teaching about your Savior is more attractive to others? Please end with a time of prayer before Jesus Christ who is your Lord and Savior.

21

Henry Alford, The New Testament for English Readers, Chicago, Moody Press, 1958, p. 1341. 69

Lesson 6

Days 2 and 3 – Titus 2:11-14 1. You might open today’s lesson by first reading the paragraph you will be studying in the next two days, and by singing the classic hymn “Amazing Grace” as an act of worship before the Lord God Almighty. John Newton, who had been involved in the slave trade, wrote this song when he came to understand God’s grace and mercy. “Amazing Grace” Amazing grace, how sweet the sound, that saved a wretch like me! I once was lost, but now am found, was blind but now I see. ‘Twas grace that taught my heart to fear, and grace my fears relieved; how precious did that grace appear the hour I first believed!

Pray with me, “Father God I thank You that You extended Your grace to me, that You have made me whole through the precious blood of my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. It is in His holy name that I pray you will help me as I study. I want to have a grateful heart, knowing that it is possible to renounce ungodly living and worldly passions so that I can live a sensible, honest, and godly life in this present world as I wait for the blessed hope and the glorious appearance of my great God and Savior, Jesus Christ. Father God, I thank You that Your Son gave Himself for me to set me free from every wrong and to cleanse me so that I could be Your special person who is enthusiastic about good works. In the name of my Savior I pray, Amen.” Now please begin with these observation questions. • Since Titus 2:11 begins with the word “for” you must go back to the verses that come before this. How is Titus 2:9,10 connected to Titus 2:11? Remember what you learned about slaves? How did Paul use the word “all”?

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•

What did Paul say about grace in Titus 2:11?

•

What are Christians to renounce according to Titus 2:12 and why?

•

What is the contrast Paul made in Titus 2:12?

•

I do not know who coined the expression “good things are worth waiting for,” but for what did Paul say believers are to wait? Why would it be worth it to wait for this?

•

According to Titus 2:14, what has Jesus Christ done for you and why?

Lesson 6 •

2.

How did Paul use the word “every” in Titus 2:14?

Please examine these word studies for some of the key words used in this passage.

Strong’s # and Transliteration:

Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:

Use of the word in other Scriptures:

4992 soterion soterios Titus 2:11 720 arneomai arnesamenoi Titus 2:12 763 asebeia asebeian Titus 2:12 1939 epithumia epithumias Titus 2:12 1346 dikaios dikaios Titus 2:12 2153 eusebos eusebos Titus 2:12 1680 elpis elpida Titus 2:13 1391 doxa doxes Titus 2:13

Salvation, defender, defense. (From 4991 soteria: rescue or safety, deliver, health, save, saving) Renounce ISV, to contradict, i.e. deny, disavow, reject, refuse

Ephesians 6:17

Ungodly living ISV, wickedness. Impiety toward God; the negative form of a Greek word for worship, sebeia.22 Passions ISV, a longing (especially for what is forbidden), lust (after)

Romans 11:26

2015 epiphaneia epiphaneian Titus 2:13 3084 lutroo lutrosetai Titus 2:14 2511 katharizo katharise Titus 2:14 4041 periousios periousion Titus 2:14 22 23 24

Honest ISV, justly, equitably, righteously, righteousness; without injuring anyone23 Godly ISV, piously. (From 2152 wellreverent, pious, devout, godly)

Titus 1:16

1 John 2:15,16 (lust) 1 Peter 2:23 Used twice in the New Testament. 2 Timothy 3:12

Hope ISV, (to anticipate, usually with pleasure), expectation or confidence, faith Glorious ISV, (as very apparent), in a wide application (lit. or fig.); dignity, honor, praise, worship. To give a correct estimate of something or someone. Appearance ISV, a manifestation, i.e. (spec.) the advent of Christ (past or future): brightness Set free ISV, to ransom, to redeem by the payment of a ransom.24

Hebrews 6:18,19

Cleanse ISV, to purify, make clean, purge

1 John 1:7,9 (cleanses)

Special ISV, peculiar KJV, being beyond usual, i.e. one’s own, own possession

Hapax legomen.

2 Peter 1:16-18

2 Timothy 4:8 1 Peter 1:18,19 (redeemed)

Zodhiates, Ibid., p. 893. Ibid., p. 906. Wuest, Ibid., p. 196. 71

Lesson 6 3. Inductive Bible study asks that you study a passage of Scripture with regard to how the text expresses time. Some confuse the timing of the redemption of the believer. Please read Titus 2:11-14 looking for the truth that is revealed concerning God’s timing. What has already happened regarding your salvation?

What is for you now?

What is to come in the future?

4. Titus 2:11-14 explains the salvation of those who follow Jesus Christ. Please read these other verses where the same word for salvation is used looking for a common thread in these references. It will help you to read the verse in its context (noted in parenthesis). a. Luke 2:30 (Luke 2:27-33) b. Luke 3:6 (Luke 3:3-6) c. Acts 28:28 (Acts 28:24-28) 5. Titus 2:12 begins with the words “it trains.” How do you receive your training? How can you guard those sources that influence you? 6. Perhaps you are NOT renouncing ungodly living or worldly passions. What gets in your way of obedience to Titus 2:12? 7. New Testament Greek scholar Kenneth Wuest shared that the key phrase in Titus 2:13 demonstrates a unity of thought and structure because of the way it is written in the Greek. Essential doctrinal truths can be verified through the study of the original biblical languages, and this verse verifies the very nature of Jesus Christ. Look at this phrase: our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ The rule that applies to this expression would be that “when there are two nouns in the same grammatical case connected by the word and, the first noun having the article, the second noun not having the article, the second noun refers to the same thing the first noun does and is a further description of it.”25 In Titus 2:13 the word God and the phrase Savior, 25

72

Wuest, Ibid., p. 194.

Lesson 6 Jesus Christ refer to the same individual.26 Please do not let this information confuse you. Meditate on Titus 2:13 and then answer this question including other information from Titus as well. Who is Jesus Christ?

8. The information discussed in Question 7 can be used to help people understand the doctrine of the trinity. H. Wayne House wrote that the doctrine of “the trinity is a mystery which we will never be able to understand fully.”27 There is not one single place in Scripture where the doctrine of the trinity is fully described. This means that to learn about the trinity, you have to search the Scriptures to determine where the support of this truth is revealed. Volumes have been written about this topic and the study will now look at the foundation of this teaching. First, what is recorded about those who were involved in the creation of the world? a. Genesis 1:1,2,26

b. John 1:1,2,14

c. Colossians 1:15-17

d. Hebrews 1:1-3

9. There are several passages in the New Testament where all three persons of the godhead, known as the trinity, are described or mentioned together. Look at what is taught concerning the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit in these Scriptures and note the purpose for this passage. a. Matthew 28:19,20

26 27

Ibid. H. Wayne House, Charts of Christian Theology and Doctrine, Grand Rapids, Zondervan Publishing, 1992, p. 48. 73

Lesson 6 b. Luke 3:21,22

c. Hebrews 9:14

d. 1 Peter 1:2 10. Considering what you have just read, how would you explain the doctrine of the trinity to someone?

11. Would you be able to explain to someone how Jesus Christ set you free from every wrong and how He cleansed you to be His own? The book of Hebrews was written to help the Hebrew people understand their Messiah, Jesus Christ. Here are a few verses that could help you explain Titus 2:14. a. Hebrews 10:10,14,17,18,22

b. Hebrews 9:11,12,14

12. Would you please take the time to think about Titus 2:11 and Titus 2:14 and put these two verses into your own words. As you paraphrase these verses, please explain what this means to you as a follower of Christ concerning the choices you make in your every day life.

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Lesson 6 13. What exactly did Paul it mean in Titus 2:14 by the phrase His “special people,” translated as His “own possession” in the NASB? Please read Peter’s perspective on this in 1 Peter 2:9,10 to answer this question.

Paul ended Titus 2:14 with the phrase that should cause believers to examine their heart and their motives. Are you “enthusiastic for good works”? Why or why not? Praise the Lord if your answer is “Yes,” and you are enthusiastic for good works! However, if you are not enthusiastic for good works, is there someone you could talk with about this that would help you determine why you are not enjoying serving the Lord and serving the body of Christ? He found God’s grace too amazing to keep to himself. This inscription was found on someone’s tombstone. How can you extend God’s grace to someone this week? How can you do this enthusiastically?

Day 4 – Titus 2 Review 1. The focus of today’s lesson will be to review Titus 2. Think back over this chapter to look for the main ideas or themes of this portion of Scripture. Start by praying and asking God for His help with this and praising the Lord that He has promised that the Holy Spirit will help you. Please read Titus 1 and 2 one more time and then answer these questions. • As you go back over the first two chapters of Titus, please read about Paul’s concern for certain individuals or groups of people. Who were these individuals and how would you briefly describe Paul’s concern? People Paul wrote about:

A summary statement describing Paul’s concern for these people or individuals:

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Lesson 6 People Paul wrote about:

A summary statement describing Paul’s concern for these people or individuals:

2. The goal will now be to reflect back on the message of Titus 2. Look at your Scripture Worksheets and your markings of the declarative statements, instructions, exhortations, and admonition from Titus 2. Using some of the key words written in the text, consider a theme for each of the sections you studied in this chapter. Try to limit your statement to no more than five words, and list these statements here as well as on page 133 of the Appendix in the section for Chapter 2 Summary Statements. Titus 2:1-5

Titus 2:6-8

Titus 2:9,10

Titus 2:11-14

Titus 2:15

3. Now ask God to show you the theme for Titus 2 based on the main points of each paragraph. Is there one theme that the separate paragraph themes would “fit” under? Sometimes you can take some of the key words from the paragraph themes and write those into a theme or title for the chapter. Pray and ask for help with this part of the lesson, and then read through these paragraph themes you listed above to do this. Now list your title for Titus 2 here and on the Theme and Title Chart in the Appendix on page 133.

4. I am praising the Lord that you are reading this paragraph in Lesson 6 of the study of Titus! This shows that you are tenacious and diligent with the commitment you made to study Paul’s pastoral epistle to Titus. My prayer continues to be that these words written so long ago would be very practical in your life today. Please close by reading Psalm 130 as a prayer of gratitude to the Lord God because you have been set free and accepted as His dear child. As you read, pray and give praise to His holy name! 76

Lesson 6

Day 5 – Discipleship Lesson 1. This week’s lesson looked at the way Paul shared the gospel with Titus. The focus of today’s lesson will be on you as a disciple being ready to share the gospel of Christ with others. Please open in prayer, asking God to help you be prepared to be His ambassador in this world. Do you share your faith in Christ on a regular basis? Perhaps the question to ask is “Can you share your faith with others?” How would you answer the question “What is your religion?” One dictionary defines religion as including these four elements, “a belief in God or gods; worship of God or gods; a particular system of religious belief and worship; and anything done or followed with reverence or devotion.”28 Some say that Christianity is not a religion, but Christianity involves a relationship with God through Christ Jesus who has brought “salvation to all people.” Can you explain how it is possible to have a relationship with God? What does that means to you?

Peter wrote that followers of Christ are to be ready to share the hope that is within them, in season and out of season. The word hope can be used either as a noun or as a verb. 1 Peter 3:15 uses the word “hope” as a noun. A noun can be either a person, a place or a thing. Peter used the word hope as a thing of certainty, rather than as a verb. An example of the word hope used as a verb would be, “I hope that one day I will be in heaven.” When the word hope is used as a noun in the Bible, its meaning would involve hope as the assurance you have because of the work of Christ who gave His life that you might be in a relationship with Father God. I had a professor who believed that Christians should be able to share their “testimony” by answering the three questions listed below, within three minutes. Another dimension that can be added to this sharing would be to incorporate the truths from the book of Romans that specifically explain the gospel and mankind’s need for a redeemer. These verses, known as the “Romans’ Road,” offer a verse by verse explanation of the gospel. Could you walk someone through this road to salvation? The references to these verses are listed below. You can read these and mark the verses in your Bible. Some have taken these references and listed them on a page in the back of their Bible. Perhaps the opportunity to share will come when you do not have your Bible with you. You would be prepared if you committed these verses to memory, so that you would be ready anytime to share the way, the truth, and the life, that others might come to the Father. Sharing your testimony: a. What was your life like before you accepted Jesus Christ as your Savior?

28

The World Book Dictionary, p. 1766. 77

Lesson 6 b. What were the circumstances involved in you asking Jesus Christ to be your Savior?

The Romans’ Road 1.) Romans 3:10 2.) Romans 3:23 3.) Romans 6:23 4.) Romans 5:8 5.) Romans 10:9 c. What difference does Jesus make in your life today?

2. Who does God want you to share your faith with? Can you pray and ask God to give you the opportunity to share? Will you continue to pray for opportunities to share with this individual? Will you give this to the Lord and then trust Him with the results? What would help you share the gospel? What practical help do you feel that you need? Do you need to be motivated to share? Pray, asking God for the names of five people with whom you might share your faith. You might have a family member or friend that you have shared your faith with and yet they have been unresponsive. It can become very discouraging. Ask a friend to covenant with you and the two of you pray for your unsaved friends and family members. Close by thanking God for the gift of your salvation, expressing your heart of thanksgiving to Jesus Christ your Savior for His sacrifice on your behalf. Is there a hymn or chorus that expresses you heart concerning this?

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Lesson 7

Lesson 7 – Titus 3 Chapter Study, Titus 3:1-7 Introduction This week you will begin Titus 3! You will look closely at the final chapter. How did Paul explain the work of Jesus Christ and the blessing of your salvation? What were the final instructions given to Titus? How did Paul conclude his letter? Every time you open God’s holy word expect to be personally instructed and convicted. Allow the challenge of God’s truth to impact your thinking, and every decision you make this week. Will you commit to memorizing a verse of Scripture this week? God will certainly help you with this spiritual discipline. A report was just released that studied memory function and they shared that people can learn with a simple method, called the 3/5 rule. The idea involves reciting something you want to learn three to five times a day for three to five days. I might suggest writing out the verse you are going to memorize on a 3 x 5 card, and carrying it with you for five days, purposefully reading the verse three to five times a day.

Day 1 – Titus 3 Comprehensive Chapter Study 1. Today the lesson will observe the Scripture Worksheets for Titus 3. As you open, please claim Paul’s prayer of Ephesians 1:17,18 for yourself personally. I pray that the God of my Lord Jesus Christ, the Father most glorious, would give me a spirit of wisdom and revelation through knowing Christ. Then with the eyes of my heart enlightened, I will know the hope of His calling, the riches of His glorious inheritance among the saints. Begin by reading Titus 3 paying attention to the key words that are repeated. You can refer to the Appendix pages 128, 129, and 131 for help with this part of the inductive observation process. • Mark the key words in Titus 3, keeping in mind the key words from Titus 1 and Titus 2. Now is the time to list what is being taught concerning the key words of Titus 3, by writing a list of what is being stated about the key word when the author used the word. You can place these lists directly on the Scripture Worksheets in the right-hand margin under the heading of the key word, or place your lists on a separate sheet of paper. Write the key words from Titus 3 here.

2. As you read Titus 3, you can also look for contrasts and comparisons that the author used. Write those here in the space provided, or mark your Scripture Worksheets in some way to show these contrasts and comparisons. Contrasts (to show differences/opposites)

Comparisons (to show similarities and connections, using the words as or like)

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Lesson 7 3. Titus 3 includes declarative statements, instructions, and exhortations and looking at these will help you find the purpose for the book of Titus. a. Declarative statements are found in Titus 3:2,3,8a,9b,12a,c,14,15a,c. Read these verses and mark these in some way. b. Paul wrote instructions to Titus in Titus 3:1,8b,9a,10,12b,13,15b. Mark these instructions on your Scripture Worksheets. c. Paul wrote a description of the gospel of our Savior Jesus Christ in Titus 3:4-7 that included a personal message. Notice the words us, we, and our in these verses. Because of the personal nature of these verses, I believe that these are exhortations. Read them and see if you agree. 4. Look for terms of expression that help you understand time, with words like “now, then, later,” etc. and mark these in a consistent way. Another means of understanding language is to examine the way verbs are used in writing. A simple explanation of verbs is that they are words that express action or the state of being, and they relate the words communicated within a framework of time. Verbs communicate that something is happening at the moment, or has happened in the past, or will happen in the future. (The verbs in the preceding sentence are in italics.) Verbs can also announce that an event has already taken place and that the results of that event are continuing at the present time. Take the time to read Titus 3, looking for the different verb tenses that were used, noting in the left hand margin references to the future, the present, or the past. This can add another dimension to your study, not because you will be studying verbs, but this will help you see what God has done in the past, what He is doing in your life today, as well as show you what the future holds. 5. Mark words that express conclusion or show results or purpose with words like “for,” “for this reason,” “so that,” and “because.” Words that express conclusion are important to note because they show why the author wrote what he wrote and help you see the promises or consequences that will come. 6. Please allow the Holy Spirit to speak to you concerning your own life and write out a prayer to the Lord regarding how the truths from His word can be applied in your life today.

End your time today meditating on the book of Titus. One way to assimilate the word of God is to digest God’s truth, and some would say you must ruminate upon the verses. This comes with spending time in the text and clearing your mind of the distractions that would keep you from being focused. If you are feeling inadequate for this task, that is exactly where God would want you, remembering the apostle Paul’s statement of 2 Corinthians 3:5, “Not that we are adequate in ourselves to consider anything as coming from ourselves, but our adequacy is from God.” 80

Lesson 7

Day 2 – Titus 3:1-3 1. The Holy Spirit directed the author of Hebrews to proclaim, “The word of God is living and active. It is sharper than any double-edged sword, piercing until it divides soul and spirit, joints and marrow, as it judges the thoughts and purposes of the heart” in Hebrews 4:12. Let the words from Titus 3:1-3 come alive to you, and ask that you might “see” what the Lord would have you “see” as you look at these words that were specially and carefully chosen by the inspiration of the Holy Spirit for the body of Christ. Open in prayer and then answer these observation questions. • What behavioral qualities was Titus to teach to the believers of Crete according to Titus 3:1?

2.

•

Titus 3:2 says that the believers in Crete were to be reminded to stay away from a negative behavior. What was that and what were they to do instead?

•

Paul reminded Titus of the behavior of people before they accepted the salvation that has been offered through Christ Jesus. How did Paul describe the life style of unbelievers in Titus 3:3?

Please examine these word studies for some of the key words used in this passage.

Strong’s # and Transliteration:

Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:

Use of the word in other Scriptures:

5293 hupotasso hupotassesthai Titus 3:1 Titus 2:5,9 746 arche archais Titus 3:1

Submit themselves ISV, obedient, subject to, to subordinate, to obey, put under, submit self unto

Hebrews 12:9

Rulers, a chief (in various applications of order, time, place or rank): beginning, principality, (the authority granting power) Authorities, force, capacity, mastery, magistrate, potentate, (executive) power

Luke 20:20

(To be) obedient, to be persuaded by a ruler, i.e. to submit to authority, by analogy

Acts 5:29,32

Honorable ISV, (in any sense, often as a noun), benefit, good (things), well

3 John 11

1849 exousia exousiais Titus 3:1 3980 peitharcheo peitharchein Titus 3:1 18 agathos agathon Titus 3:1

2 Corinthians 10:8

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Lesson 7 Strong’s # and Transliteration:

Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:

Use of the word in other Scriptures:

2041 ergon ergon Titus 3:1 987 blasphemeo blasphemein Titus 3:2 269 amachos amachous Titus 3:2 1933 epieikes epieikeis Titus 3:2 4236 praiotes prauteta Titus 3:2 453 anoetos anoetoi Titus 3:3 545 apeithes apeitheis Titus 3:3 4105 planao planaomenoi Titus 3:3 1398 douleuo douleuontes Titus 3:3 1939 epithumia epithumiais Titus 3:3 2237 hedone hedonais Titus 3:3 2549 kakia kakia Titus 3:3

Work ISV, from ergo (to work), toil, as an effort or occupation; doing labor, work, deed NASB Insult ISV, to vilify, to speak impiously, blaspheme, defame, rail on, revile, malign NASB (Be) argumentative ISV, not peaceable, a brawler

1 John 3:18

Gentle ISV, appropriate, mild, moderation, patient

James 3:17

Perfect courtesy ISV, gentleness, by implication humility, meekness

2 Timothy 2:24,25 (gentle)

Foolish ISV, unintelligent, by implication sensual, unwise

Luke 24:25

Disobedient ISV, unpersuadable, unbelieving, not letting oneself be persuaded, hard, stubborn29 Misled ISV, cause to roam, (from safety, truth, or virtue): go astray

2 Timothy 3:1,2

Slaves ISV, enslaved, be in bondage to, to do, serve (-ice), serving as slaves

Romans 6:6

Lusts, a longing (especially for what is forbidden), desire, the diseased condition of the soul30 Pleasures, sensual delight, by implication, desire, lust; the basis for the word hedonistic Malice, badness, depravity, malignity, trouble; evil

Titus 2:12

2 Peter 2:2 Used twice in the New Testament. 1 Timothy 3:3

2 Timothy 3:13

2 Peter 2:12,13 Acts 8:20-22 (wickedness)

3. Paul gave three instructions concerning submission in his letter to Titus. As a reminder, what individuals were given these instructions and to whom were they to submit? a. Titus 2:5 b. Titus 2:9

29 30

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Zodhiates, p. 889. Ibid., p. 914.

Lesson 7 c. Titus 3:1

4. Why is obedience to these instructions concerning submission so important for Christians?

5. Paul wrote similar instructions to the believers in Rome that he wrote for Titus to share with the believers of Crete. Please read Romans 13:1-7 and then summarize why Christians were given this command.

6. Peter also wrote about the relationship Christians were to have with those in authority over them in 1 Peter 2:13-17. Please read this paragraph and record the reasons Peter gave for this instruction.

7. The word gentle is used in the New Testament in a number of different places, as the believer is commanded to be gentle. Gentleness is considered a fruit of the Spirit. Christians are asked to correct one another with gentleness. The passage I always think of in association with the word gentle is Matthew 11:28-30 where Jesus made a promise to His followers and then very simply described Himself. Please read these words and write out the promises Jesus made, and what His disciples are to learn from Him.

8. Titus 3:3 begins with the phrase, “After all, we ourselves were once…” What does that expression mean? Who is included in that statement? Please look at these two passages to see further teaching on this. Who were you before Christ and who are you now? What do these passages declare What does this truth call you to do? about God? Romans 6:5-14

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Lesson 7 Ephesians 2:1-5

9. I was thinking of an incident in the lives of Peter and John recorded in Acts 4 that demonstrates their response to those “in authority” over them. These two apostles were arrested and then brought before the Hebrew Council in Jerusalem. Please read Acts 4:1323 to see how Peter and John responded to the Jewish leaders. What did Peter and John model for you concerning submission?

How do you respond when you have a concern about decisions that are being made in your community, state, or country? Do you let your governing officials know you are concerned? Do you write letters or make phone calls to share your opinion? Do you pray, asking God to intervene in the process? Please stop and ask God if there is something you should be involved with where you could share your reverence for God by speaking His truth and standing on His righteousness. This would be an honorable service. No matter the situation or circumstances of your life, God is faithful. Please close by singing or reading the classic hymn, “Immortal, Invisible” as an act of worship before the Lord. “Immortal, Invisible” Immortal, invisible, God only wise, in light in accessible hid from our eyes, most blessed, most glorious, the Ancient of Days, Almighty, victorious, Thy great name we praise. By Walter Chalmers Smith.

Days 3 and 4 - Titus 3:4-7 1. I will begin by sharing with you that this passage of Titus has been difficult for me to study. The teacher in me would find it easier to teach the truths in these verses and simply ask you to respond. However, I always fight that approach to teaching because I believe that a student will retain more of what is being studied when they dig it out for themselves. Please bear with me in these verses, they contain deep spiritual truths you will not want to miss. Enter into this passage with prayer knowing that God will speak to you from His word. Thank Him for this amazing blessing and His faithfulness, then read Titus 3:1-7 and begin with these observation questions. • The conjunction, however opens Titus 3:4. What was the purpose of that word in this context? • 84

How did Paul say that you were saved in Titus 3:5?

Lesson 7 •

Scripture does not contradict Scripture. That is a fact that you can ALWAYS rest upon. Please read Ephesians 2:4,8,9 and see how Paul’s writing to the people of Ephesus confirmed Paul’s writing to Titus. How do these two passages agree doctrinally?

•

The people of Israel knew God as the God of mercy through the testimony of those who had been the obvious recipients of His mercy. The Hebrew word heced is sometimes translated as mercy, and sometimes as lovingkindness. My Hebrew professor translates the word heced as covenant love, because it is a word that encompasses God’s love, verified by His covenant with His people in the Old Testament and through Jesus, the New Covenant. Those who follow after Christ are the blessed recipients of this covenant love, as we have received the forgiveness of sins. King David knew the word heced as an attribute of God, as God extended His mercy to David even though he had sinned. When we humbly seek communion with the Lord, He responds with His heart of compassion. Isn’t it amazing that the Almighty God of the universe desires that we would be right with Him, and be in relationship with Him? This is so amazing to me that God looks at us with compassion, with mercy, with lovingkindness, and steadfast love, even in the midst of our sin. God extends His love to each of His repentant children. Remember, the Gentile people in the ancient near east prayed to their gods for grace that they might be granted favor. In fact, the emperor of the Roman people called himself the “savior of the people.” What did Paul announce to Titus about God’s grace in Titus 3:4-7?

•

The ISV Bible translated today’s passage of Titus as a poem, in a style of poetry that we would recognize. The poetry of the ancient world generally did not involve rhyming, but their poetry included a number of identifiable literary devices including images, allusions, and personification. The words of Titus 3:5 are also found in a hymn that was used by the early Christian church. Good biblical interpretation demands that you never take a phrase out of its verse or a verse out of its paragraph. Some have read Titus 3:5 out of its context, and then interpreted this verse differently. This, in fact, is the most misunderstood portion of the epistle of Titus, so please be willing to think through this section of the lesson and ask God to help you with its meaning. The original Greek text of Titus 3:5 contains the word loutrou, which is usually translated into English as washing. The ISV translated Titus 3:5 as “He saved us through a second birth.” The NASB translated this phrase as “He saved us…by the washing of regeneration,” a more literal translation of the phrase. The NIV translated this as “He saved us through the washing of rebirth.” The question debated through the centuries has been whether the word loutrou was used by Paul in a literal or figurative sense. If it was used literally, then Paul would be saying that baptism is 85

Lesson 7 necessary for salvation. However you will find support in other Scriptures for the word being used figuratively. Please take the time to read John 3:3-7 and Hebrews 9:11-28 taking notes on those truths that prove how Jesus Christ saved you, and especially the truths about your cleansing.

•

2.

Here’s one last truth that will encourage your spirit! Please write out Paul’s last verse, Titus 3:7, and consider whether you might memorize this verse in the next three to five days.

Please examine these word studies for some of the key words used in this passage.

Strong’s # and Transliteration:

Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:

Use of the word in other Scriptures:

5544 chrestotes chrestotes Titus 3:4 5363 philanthropia philanthropia Titus 3:4

Grace ISV, kindness NASB, usefulness, i.e. moral excellence (in character or demeanor), gentleness, good (-ness) Love for mankind ISV, fondness of mankind, i.e. benevolence (philanthropy), kindness, love towards man Saved, to save, i.e. to deliver or protect, heal, preserve, save (self), do well, be (make) whole Deeds ISV, work, toil as an effort or occupation, an act, doing, labor

Ephesians 2:4-7 (kindness)

4982 sozo esosen Titus 3:5 2041 ergon ergon Titus 3:5 1656 eleos eleos Titus 3:5

Used two times in the New Testament. Acts 28:2 In the New Testament 103 times! Matthew 1:21 Ephesians 2:8,9 (works)

Steadfast love ISV, mercy, compassion (human or divine, esp. active): (+ tender). Special and immediate regard to the misery that is the consequence of sins.31

Titus 1:4

342 anakainosis anakainoseos Titus 3:5

Renewed ISV, renewing NASB, renewal NIV, renovation

Used twice in the New Testament. Romans 12:1,2 (mark this for later)

1632 ekcheo execheen Titus 3:6

Poured ISV, shed KJV, to pour forth, to bestow, gush (pour) out, run greedily out, spill

Romans 5:5 (mark this for later)

31

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Zodhiates, Ibid. p. 911.

Hebrews 4:16

Lesson 7 Strong’s # and Transliteration:

Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:

Use of the word in other Scriptures:

1344 dikaioo dikaiothentes Titus 3:7

Made right ISV, to render (i.e. show or regard as) just or innocent, free, to be righteous; justified, a legal term, to declare someone as innocent

Romans 5:1,2

166 aionios aioniou Titus 3:7

Eternal ISV, perpetual, (also used of past time, or past and future as well): forever, everlasting, world (began)

John 3:16 (everlasting)

2222 zoe zoes Titus 3:7

Life, literally or figuratively, lifetime. This word was often used in association with the idea of eternal life, even though the word “eternal” was not always used with it.

2 Peter 1:2,3

3. Please read Titus 2:11-14 again and note what this passage has in common with today’s passage. Look for words that are repeated, and similarities in the wording of phrases. Mark these in some way on your Scripture worksheets. 4. The word Savior/savior was only used in the Old Testament thirteen times. Please read these references and record what was announced about the Savior in the Old Testament. a. Psalm 106:21 b. Isaiah 43:3 c. Hosea 13:4 5. When you started the study of Titus, you were asked to mark some of the key words in a distinctive way. You might have marked the words for God with a triangle, words for Christ with a cross, as well as some symbol for the Holy Spirit. Look at how you marked these three in Titus 3:4-7. As I was studying this paragraph I realized that I had marked some of the words for God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit differently than Paul had actually intended. What difference does this make?

Consider the last word in Titus 3:6 in the ISV, and then think about how you would explain to someone the relationship of God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit in regard to your salvation, according to Titus 3:4-7. You might consider answering this 87

Lesson 7 question in a different way, perhaps by drawing a diagram to show the work of each of the members of the godhead on your behalf.

6. Now please examine the two key words used in Titus 3:5, and then read Ephesians 5:25,26 and Matthew 19:27-30 to answer the questions that follow. Strong’s # and Transliteration:

Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:

Use of the word in other Scriptures:

3067 loutron loutrou Titus 3:5

Washing, bath, i.e. (figuratively) baptism

Used twice in the New Testament. Ephesians 5:25,26 (mark this for later)

3824 palingenesia palingenesias Titus 3:5

Regeneration (spiritual) rebirth (the state or the act), i.e. (figuratively) spiritual renovation; specifically Messianic restoration

Used twice in the New Testament. Matthew 19:27-30 (mark this for later)

Who will be regenerated?

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How are believers cleansed?

What time factor is involved in the believer’s regeneration?

Lesson 7 7. You must be careful to consider the theology of Christian songs, because while most hymns (songs with several verses and no repeated refrain or chorus) and gospel songs (songs with several verses and repeated refrains or choruses) are theologically sound, some are not. The song’s doctrine could be misleading, or even inaccurate. Titus 3:5 made me think of the gospel song, “Nothing But the Blood,” by Robert Lowry. Please read or sing the words below and think about the doctrine that this song proclaims. “Nothing But the Blood” What can wash away my sins? Nothing but the blood of Jesus. What can make me whole again? Nothing but the blood of Jesus. Oh, precious is the flow that makes me white as snow, no other fount I know, nothing but the blood of Jesus.

Do you think this song is doctrinally sound? Remember Paul’s command to Titus was that he was to teach sound doctrine. How would you determine if this song, “Nothing But the Blood” is doctrinally sound? Any investigation concerning biblical truth can begin with a Bible concordance. Remember Paul’s charge to Timothy, “Do your best to present yourself to God as an approved worker who has nothing to be ashamed of as he teaches the word of truth correctly” in 2 Timothy 2:15. You can do that with the help of the Holy Spirit. As you have studied the book of Titus, you are being trained to handle the word of God accurately. 8. The word Paul used for renewed in Titus 3:5 is only used one other place in the New Testament. Please read Titus 3:5 and Romans 12:1,2 and consider the work of the Holy Spirit as well as your responsibility concerning being renewed.

9. Now look at 2 Corinthians 5:17 and Romans 6:4-11 to further investigate the theme of the believer’s regeneration. Who are you “in Christ”? What has happened to your “old self”?

What does this truth mean to you as a believer?

10. Paul wrote that the follower of Christ is “made right by His own grace” which adds yet another important doctrine to our week’s lesson. In Titus there is one simple mention of the word that carried the message of the sinner becoming just, right, or innocent. In other 89

Lesson 7 New Testament books, Paul writes entire chapters devoted to this important topic. Please examine these verses in Romans concerning justification and answer these questions. According to Romans 3:24, how are we justified?

11. 5:1?

According to Romans According to Romans 4:1-3, 3:28,29, who is justification how was Abraham extended to? justified?

What did Paul say is the result of the Christian’s justification in Romans 4:25 and

12. “To stop without having applied what you have learned in your Bible study would be like cooking a sumptuous meal, serving it on fine china, and then walking away from the table without taking a bite! Just as eating is the goal of cooking, application, or obedience, is the goal of Bible study. It is the culmination of all your research. During the observation and interpretation stages you study the Word of God; in application, the Word of God studies you!”32 How will you renew your spirit? One of the words that defined renew was to renovate. Have you ever been involved in a renovation project? Many comment that renovation projects are exciting but messy, because people usually continue to live in the midst of the project. How can you continue living while “working” on the project, your sanctification? The difference is that this “project” will be completed when we meet the Lord face to face, not while you are here on earth! What do you need to do to renew your spirit?

Would you close by reading Ephesians 5:15-21 as a prayer of commitment before the Lord? Ask God for a psalm (song) or hymn you might sing to refresh and renew your spirit. 32

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Hans Finzel, Observe, Interpret, Apply, Wheaton, Victor Books, 1994, p. 66.

Lesson 7

Day 5 – Discipleship Lesson 1. The discipleship lesson today will look at material written by LeRoy Eims when he served with the Navigator ministry. The goal of this ministry has always been to build into the lives of believers through the study and memorization of God’s word. Please open in prayer asking that you would have the mind of Christ concerning your own spiritual walk, that you might see where you are on these lists, allowing the conviction of the Holy Spirit to help you as you examine your own heart toward God, toward His calling on your life, toward others in the body of Christ, as well as toward those who are lost. Please read this list entitled “Profiles,” included in the Appendix, marking those areas where you might need to make a commitment to growing in your spiritual walk. How would someone who knows you see you on this chart? Would you be in the profile of a convert, a growing disciple, a worker, or a leader?33 2. How long would it take for a person to move from being a new convert to being a leader in the body of Christ? Think about Christ and His relationship with His disciples. Following after Christ and being His disciple meant spending time with Him. Christ’s disciples were with Him for about a three-year period of time. Someone calculated the hours of training these disciples had with the most perceptive and gifted teacher who ever walked on earth. The disciples were not ready to serve in a short period of time! God made a provision to help His children. Please read the following verses and record what is taught about the role the Holy Spirit in our “renewing.” a. John 14:16,26

b. John 16:8

c. John 16:13,14

Please thank the Lord for His provision of your salvation through Jesus His Son and for the gift of the Holy Spirit. You might close by prayerfully singing this song. “Take Time to Be Holy” Take time to be holy, speak oft with the Lord; abide in Him always and feed on His Word. Make friends of God’s children, help those who are weak, forgetting in nothing His blessing to seek. By William D. Longstaff and George C. Stebbins

33

LeRoy Eims, The Lost Art of Disciple Making, Grand Rapids, Zondervan, 1978, pp. 184-186.

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Lesson 8

Lesson 8 – Titus 3:8-15, Titus 3 Review, and Review of Titus Introduction This week’s lesson will bring to a conclusion the study of the pastoral epistle to Titus. What do the last eight verses hold for you that you might continue to grow in your faith and commitment to the Lord God? As you go through the lesson this week, see if there is a verse that the Lord would have you memorize. Do not forget the Scripture reference when you commit the verse to memory.

Day 1 - Titus 3:8-11 1. Do you have a passion for God? The word passion comes from the Latin word meaning to suffer. The phrase “the passion of Christ” was the recognition of Christ’s suffering as He took our sins upon Himself and died on the cross. J.S. Bach wrote the dramatic symphony called The Passion According to Saint Matthew. Dramatic presentations have been shared around the world called “Passion Plays,” focusing on the last week of Christ’s life that led to His crucifixion. Christ demonstrated His love for you through the passion of His sacrifice. How do you demonstrate your love for Christ? Keep this in mind as you study today’s lesson. Humbly bow before the Lord and open in prayer asking for His wisdom, that you would have the mind of Christ in all things, and then begin with these observation questions. • Our salvation is a free gift from God and it is by God’s grace that we are saved. According to Titus 3:8, what did Paul say would be evident in a Christian’s life?

•

As you read Titus 3:9, you see a contrast with what had been written in Titus 3:8. What results were being contrasted in Titus 3:8 and Titus 3:9?

•

What tone does Paul’s instruction set for the Cretan church in Titus 3:10?

•

Consider the instructions Paul gave in Titus 3:9,10 and their importance.

What was Titus to do?

When was Titus to follow this command?

Why was this command important for Titus?

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Lesson 8 2.

Please examine these word studies for some of the key words used in this passage.

Strong’s # and Transliteration:

Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:

Use of the word in other Scriptures:

4103 pistos pistos Titus 3:8 3056 logos logos Titus 3:8 Titus 2:5

Trustworthy ISV, faithful KJV, trustful, believe (ing), sure, true

Titus 1:9 (a similar form of the word)

Saying ISV, statement KJV and NASB, something said, (including the thought), by implication, a topic (subject of discourse), also reasoning (the mental faculty) or motive, word. Here referring to “a concept of thought, i.e. doctrine.”34 Good, beautiful, but chiefly good, i.e. valuable or virtuous (for appearance or use, and thus distinguished from agatha, the other word for good which is intrinsic). Also means better, fair, honest, worthy.

John 1:1,14

Helpful ISV, serviceable, advantageous, profit (able)

Used three times in the New Testament. 1 Timothy 4:8

2570 kalos kalos Titus 3:8 Titus 2:7,14

5624 ophelimos ophelima Titus 3:8

Titus 3:8,14

2 Timothy 3:16

3474 moros moras Titus 3:9 2214 zetesis zeteseis Titus 3:9 1076 genealogia genealogias Titus 3:9 2054 eris erin Titus 3:9 3163 mache machas Titus 3:9 3544 nomikos nomikas Titus 3:9 Titus 3:13 34

Foolish ISV, dull or stupid (as if shut up), i.e. heedless, blockhead, absurd

2 Timothy 2:23

Controversies ISV, question KJV, a searching, a dispute or its theme

1 Timothy 6:3,4 (questions)

Genealogies ISV, tracing by generations

1 Timothy 1:4

Quarrels ISV, a strife, wrangling, contention, debate, variance

2 Corinthians 12:19-21

Fights ISV, a battle, controversy, disputes, strive, striving

James 4:1-3

Law, according (or pertaining) to the Law, i.e. legal, as a noun, an expert in the (Mosaic) law, about the law, lawyer

Every other place this word is used it is referring to a lawyer, as to someone who knew the Jewish law.

Kenneth Wuest, Wuest’s Word Studies, Grand Rapids, Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., 1952, p. 201. 94

Lesson 8 Strong’s # and Transliteration:

Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:

Use of the word in other Scriptures:

3868 paraiteomai paraitou Titus 3:10

2 Timothy 2:23 (do not have anything to do with)

141 hairetikos hairetikon Titus 3:10

Have nothing to do with ISV, to beg off, deprecate, decline, shun, avoid, (make) excuse, entreat, refuse, avoid, reject NASB Divisions ISV, a schismatic, heretic. From the word that means “to make a choice,” (hairetizo)

Hapax legomen, however another form of the word appears in 2 Peter 2:1 (heresies)

3559 nouthesia nouthesian Titus 3:10

Warned ISV, warning, calling attention to, i.e. a mild rebuke or warning, admonition

Used three times in the New Testament. 1 Corinthians 10:11 (warning) Ephesians 6:4 (instruction)

1612 ekstrepho exestraptai Titus 3:11 264 hamartano hamartanei Titus 3:11 843 autokatakritos autokatakritos Titus 3:11

Corrupt ISV, subvert, perverted NASB

Hapax legomen.

Sinning, to miss the mark (and so not share in the prize), to err, esp. morally to sin, for your faults, offend, trespass, sinful NIV His own condemnation ISV, condemned of self, self-condemned NASB and NIV

Romans 3:23

Hapax legomen.

3. In the second pastoral epistle that Paul wrote to Timothy, he used the same phrase, “This saying is trustworthy.” Please compare these two passages by looking at the way that Paul used this declaration in 2 Timothy 2:11. What can you do to understand what Paul meant by what he had written being trustworthy? What are the themes of Paul’s two “trustworthy statements?” Another way to analyze this would be to ask what are the doctrines that Paul was explaining to Timothy and Titus? Answer the questions below while thinking about the role of these two early church pastors. Please support your answers with Scripture references. The “trustworthy statement” of 2 Timothy 2:11

Why was this declaration important?

The “trustworthy statement” of Titus 3:8

Why was this declaration important?

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Lesson 8 4. Did Titus 3:9 remind you of one of the concerns that Paul expressed in Titus 1? Please go back and read Titus 1:10-16, and compare and/or contrast the behaviors of these individuals. Behaviors of “rebellious men” in Titus 1:10-16

Behaviors of a “person who causes divisions” in Titus 3:9-11

5. Instructions similar to Titus 3:10 were given in other New Testament Scripture. Look at these other references to see how these instructions compare with Paul’s words of Titus 3:10. a. Matthew 18:15-17 b. Romans 16:17 c. 2 Corinthians 13:1-3 d. 2 Thessalonians 3:6,14 e. 2 Timothy 3:5 f. 2 John 1:10 6. When Jesus proclaimed His role in people’s lives He said that He had come that His followers might have life abundantly. Christ drew the contrast that the enemy had come to “steal, slaughter and destroy” in John 10:10. One way the enemy attempts to destroy us is through our thoughts of self-condemnation and guilt. The root of the Greek word for selfcondemned in Titus 3:11 is a form of the word for condemnation that is given below. Strong’s # and Transliteration:

Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:

Use of the word in other Scriptures:

2631 katakrima katakrima

Condemnation, an adverse sentence (the verdict)

Used three times in the New Testament. Romans 5:16-18 Romans 8:1

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Lesson 8 7. Considering what you have studied, how would you describe the character of the individual that Paul wrote about in Titus 3:9-11? Could this person be a Christian? Be sure to support your answer to this question with Scripture.

8. Titus 3:8 records Paul’s concern “so that those who have put their faith in God will devote themselves to good works.” Are you sensitive to the Lord’s leading concerning good deeds? Is the pattern of your life to engage in good works? Good works should not take the place of spending time alone with the Lord. When Jesus Christ is your best friend you will long to spend time with Him. Performing good deeds outside your home should not come before your responsibilities with your own family. Sometimes the most important “good” that you can devote yourself to would be intercessory prayer on behalf of those in need. Is there someone that God would want you to help this week? Close by praying, asking God for His wisdom. Psalms 19:7 declares that the statutes of the Lord are trustworthy, giving wisdom to the simple. I am claiming that truth, trusting God with whatever He will lead me to do, that I may serve Him with a pure heart.

Day 2 - Titus 3:12-15 1. Today you will study the last four verses of the book of Titus! As you approach this portion of Paul’s epistle, ask God to help you have the mind of Christ, that you might understand the intention of this passage, and allow this to penetrate your own spirit. Now please consider these observation questions. • What did Paul ask of Titus in Titus 3:12?

35

•

When Titus received his letter from Paul he was on the island of Crete. In Titus 3:12 another geographical reference was given. In the first century, there were three towns by this same name within the area surrounding the Mediterranean Sea. One was in Cilicia, one in Thrace, and another was located in the Epirus region of Greece.35 Look on the map in the Appendix to see the Nicopolis on the shore of western Greece, as most scholars believe this was the Nicopolis that Paul mentioned.

•

What was the second request Paul made of Titus in Titus 3:13?

Wuest. Ibid., p. 202. 97

Lesson 8

2.

•

What did Paul say the Cretans were to learn and why, according to Titus 3:14?

•

Some have misunderstood the command to good works given in the New Testament. Devoting oneself to good works will not bring anyone salvation. Salvation for the follower of Christ comes when they accept the gift that Jesus Christ gave when He took the sins of all mankind upon Himself and died on the cross as a substitutionary sacrifice ordained by His Father, the Lord God Almighty. Those who follow Christ want to serve others in gratitude to God for His provision. Serving others shows one’s reverence for God. Through the power and love of Jesus, His followers can show their devotion to Him through good works. Please stop and humbly bow before the Lord to thank Him for your salvation.

•

How can you learn to devote yourself to good works?

•

What does Titus 3:12-15 reveal about Paul’s character and his personality?

Please examine these word studies for some of the key words used in this passage.

Strong’s # and Transliteration:

Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:

3533 nikopolis nikopolin Titus 3:12 316 anagkaios anagkaias Titus 3:14 5332 chreia chreias Titus 3:14

Nicopolis, city of victory, from the Hapax legomen. Greek words nike, meaning victory, and polis meaning city Urgent ISV, necessary, necessity, Philippians 1:23-26 (better 1:24) needful, pressing, better Needs ISV, employment, …requirement or destitution, business, use, want

Use of the word in other Scriptures:

Acts 2:44,45 (in need 2:45)

3. Paul named some specific individuals in Titus 3:12,13. Two of these, men Artemas and Zenas, are only mentioned in Titus and nowhere else in the New Testament. Tychicus and Apollos are mentioned in a number of places. Please record some of the facts about these men that you find in the references given below. a. Tychicus: Acts 20:4; Ephesians 6:21,22; Colossians 4:7-9; and 2 Timothy 4:12

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Lesson 8 b. Apollos: Acts 18:24-19:1; 1 Corinthians 1:12,3:4-6,3:22,4:6,16:12

4. Through the book of Hebrews, Jewish Christians were taught how to live in the new covenant, trusting in Jesus Christ as their Messiah. Please look at Hebrews 13:1,2 to see this teaching to the church. What were believers told to do and why?

5. Many believe that the author of Hebrews was referring to the event recorded in Genesis 18-19:1. What does this say to you concerning others?

6. Have you ever been very busy with an important task, and people from out of town “dropped in” for a visit? How do you imagine Titus would have felt with these visitors? Do you believe that the events that take place in your life are coincidences? Many people believe that related events are coincidences. However, when you believe in the sovereignty of God, there are no coincidences with those who follow after Christ. If someone unexpectedly came by for a visit, you need to acknowledge that God arranged or allowed that to happen, and it was not a surprise to Him. Sometimes you might miss the blessing of a relationship that God has planned to use to minister to your spirit or to the spirit of the other. Sometimes you can miss the fact that God will use the circumstances in your life to provide training that can shape you into the image of your Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Whatever God allows in your life, it is for your good that it might bring Him honor and glory. God has promised that He will never give us more than we can bear, and we must stand firm on that promise. 1 Corinthians 10:13 says, “No temptation has overtaken you that is unusual for human beings. God is faithful, and he will not allow you to be tempted beyond your strength. Instead, along with the temptation he will also provide a way out, so that you can endure it.” Remember the truth Paul wrote of God’s provision in Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.” Will you allow God to use this truth to influence your thinking? Do you get impatient or irritated when God allows “things” to come into your life that you did not plan or you do not really want? What event has entered your life recently that has caused you to struggle? Continued on the next page. 99

Lesson 8 Will you look beyond your pain, disappointment, frustration, and inconvenience to see God at work, refining, strengthening, comforting, and providing for your every need? Think about ways that God has shown His faithfulness to you. You might express God’s faithfulness to you through a poem or a simple picture as a means of worshiping Him. A simple definition of worship is that it is a right response to God. You have the option of worshiping God moment by moment with every act of obedience to Him.

Please end with reading Paul’s prayer request of Colossians 1:9-12 as your own prayer to the Lord. Change the pronouns you and us to I and me as you read these words. Note how Paul used the words good work in Colossians 1:10.

Day 3 – Titus 3 Review 1. The focus of today’s lesson will be to review Titus 3. Spending the time to review a chapter will help you think back over what you have studied that you might see the main ideas or themes of this portion of Scripture. Start by praying and asking God for His help with this and praising the Lord that He has promised that the Holy Spirit will help you. Please read Titus 3 one more time and then answer these questions. •

As you read again Titus 3:1-11, look for Paul’s concern for certain individuals or groups of people. Who were these and how would you briefly describe Paul’s concern?

People written about by Paul:

100

A summary statement of Paul’s concern for these people or individuals:

Lesson 8 2. The goal will now be to reflect back on the messages of Titus 3. Look back at your Scripture Worksheets and your marking of the declarative statements, instructions, and exhortations from Titus 3. Using some of the key words written in the text, consider a theme for each of the sections you studied in this chapter. It might help to write out several summary statements of each section. Try to limit your statement to no more than five words, and list these here as well as on page 133 of the Appendix, in the section for Chapter 3 Summary Statements. Titus 3:1-3

Titus 3:4-8

Titus 3:9-11

Titus 3:12,13

Titus 3:14

Titus 3:15

3. Now ask God to show you the theme for Titus 3 based on the main points of each paragraph. Is there one theme that the separate paragraph themes would “fit” under? Take some of the key words from the paragraph themes and write those into a theme or title for the chapter. Pray and ask for help with this part of the lesson, and then read through these paragraph themes you listed above to do this. Now list your title for Titus 3 here and on the Theme and Title Chart in the Appendix on page 133.

4. Please stop and reflect on Paul’s letter to Titus. What is the message God has for you today from Titus 3? What would God have you do with His truth? Meditate on this chapter, and when you come back tomorrow be willing to allow God to lead you into obedience to Him and His holy word.

You might close by singing a song of worship, declaring your heart attitude toward your God and Savior, Jesus Christ. 101

Lesson 8

Day 4 – Review of the Entire Book of Titus 1. Today’s lesson is a challenge that some become frustrated over. Even when something is not easy, God will help you with the “work.” God is honored when His children spend time studying His word. Our enemy Satan will try to keep Christians from spending time with the Lord. Whenever you feel that you are under attack, take deep breaths and start praying. Deep breathing (that is felt in your abdomen) will increase the oxygen flow to your brain and that will help you think more clearly. Praying for God’s help will also help you remember the Scripture you have studied and maybe even memorized in the past. •

As you begin today’s lesson, please go back and review Titus 2:11-14 and Titus 3:47. Part of worshiping the Lord God is to acknowledge who you were before you accepted Jesus Christ as your Savior and to thank Him for what He has done for you. In these verses explaining your salvation, note the contrast between who you were and who you are NOW as a follower of Christ Jesus.

Who you were before salvation:

Who you are now as a follower of Christ:

2. According to Paul’s pastoral epistle to Titus, what specifically was Titus to do in Crete? This answer will be like a review of the book of Titus. Make a list of the specific instructions Paul gave to Titus, and when you are finished, it will be an excellent reminder of the task before Titus. Include the attitude Titus was to have for his role in the Cretan church and why this was important. Do not forget to include the Scripture reference as you answer the questions. The instructions for Titus:

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What was Titus’ attitude to be?

Why was this attitude important?

Lesson 8 3. Look at what you have recorded on page 133 of the Appendix for the themes of each chapter and write a statement to summarize the entire book. This will sum up the book of Titus in a “nutshell.” For many, this is not an easy task, but God will help you with this, that you might understand the purpose for the book of Titus. This will be the overall message or theme of the book. Ask yourself how each chapter relates to the main theme of the book. Here are some guidelines for writing a book theme: • • •

Use about five words or less, if possible Use at least one word that is actually used in the book The theme should be descriptive of what is in the book

4. Based on the key words, declarative statements, instructions, exhortations, admonition, and chapter themes, what is the purpose for the book of Titus?

5. Will you conclude by writing a poem, drawing a picture, or in some way expressing who you are to be as a child of God. How is it possible that you can be obedient to God’s standard and to His righteousness?

Considering what you have learned in the study of Titus, what difference does this book make in your life?

Please join with God concerning what He has shown you as you close in prayer. 103

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Day 5 – Discipleship 1. At the time the Epistle to Titus was written, the Jewish leaders were persecuting the Christians of the early church because they had chosen to follow Jesus of Nazareth as their Messiah. Roman officials then began to persecute Christians for their faith, as they misunderstood the religion of Jesus’ disciples and were angry that Christians would not worship their Emperor. Some believers at this time were killed for their faith because they would not recant their relationship with their Lord. These martyrs considered it a privilege to suffer in the name of their Savior who had suffered a humiliating, anguishing death on their behalf. The passion of Christ led many to express their devotion by surrendering their own will that God would be glorified through their own act of obedience. How do you demonstrate your love for Christ? Keep this in mind as you approach today’s time in the word, allowing God’s holy word to be useful for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, so that you may be complete and thoroughly equipped for every good work, 2 Timothy 3:16,17. Humbly bow before the Lord and open in prayer asking for His wisdom, so that you would have the mind of Christ as you read His word. • Please read the book of Titus and ask God to speak to you through His word that you might allow Him to reveal to you where you are most vulnerable to sin or have been disobedient to His standard. Do not allow yourself to be “overwhelmed” by this request. Ask God for ONE area of your life He would want you to address today. 2. As a disciple of Christ please ask God to search your heart and reveal to you what your vulnerability to a certain sin is founded upon. Is there someone you could talk with about this? James wrote that Christians are to confess their sins to one another, and when obedience to this biblical command takes place, God is honored and the power of that sin is broken. When you choose to honor God by being obedient to His standard, this choice might feel like great limitations have been placed upon you. But, in fact, obedience to God leads to an incredible freedom. Will you choose to believe God’s word and make decisions daily that honor your God and Savior? If something gets in the way of your obedience to God, consider seeking an accountability companion to help you fight this natural tendency to indifference and rebellion. Believers honor God when they are willing to be honest and connected with at least one other believer. The last lesson in the study will look at some ideas to help you will this accountability. One of my favorite Christian songs is “I Surrender All,” and if you know this song you could close by singing these words as a way of expressing your dedication to Jesus your blessed Savior. “I Surrender All” All to Jesus I surrender, all to Him I freely give; I will ever love and trust Him, in His presence daily live. Chorus: I surrender all, I surrender all, all to Thee, my blessed Savior, I surrender all. All to Jesus I surrender, humbly at His feet I bow; worldly pleasures all forsaken, take me Jesus, take me now. Chorus: I surrender all, I surrender all, all to Thee, my blessed Savior, I surrender all. By Judson W. Van de Venter and Winfield S. Weeden

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Lesson 9 – Discipleship Introduction The lesson this week will contain a variety of resources designed to help you establish a ministry of discipleship. First the lesson will look at Scripture that will give the foundation for the training of children, whether in your role as a parent or grandparent, aunt or uncle, or as a compassionate older person in a child’s life. The command given by Christ that His disciples are to go and make disciples has been a burden of my heart for many years, and I recognize how important it is for older believers to reach out and teach those who are younger in their faith. In my case, when I was a young mom, I was discipled by a woman who was older than me chronologically as well as spiritually. I was a part of a team of leaders in the Bible study that she and her husband led. We met weekly to pray and study the Bible together. During this time I grew in my faith, and she encouraged a passion for God’s word that continues to grow within me.

Days 1 and 2 – Discipling Children 1. When our children were in elementary school a pastor in our church asked me what my goal was as a parent. In thinking a long time about that question I realized that the most important factor involved in raising my children was that they would be mature, committed Christians. I felt that God had entrusted my husband and me with the privilege and responsibility of training our children and I needed to be faithful to pray for them. The next two days will look at Scripture that expresses how adults can pray for the children God has entrusted to them, and the lesson will also have testimonies from a group of parents and grandparents who have shared ideas with me about this important task. You can begin with these observation questions. • First look at the standard that God set for the Hebrew people in regard to teaching their children about the Lord. Read Deuteronomy 6:1-16 and record what parents were asked to do and why God said this was important.

•

As a reminder, what does Titus 2:4 ask of women in relationship to their children?

•

How does this standard relate to the command of Deuteronomy 6:1-16?

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Lesson 9 •

The book of Proverbs is considered to be poetry and should be interpreted as wisdom literature. Biblical Proverbs are “concise, memorable, simple and profound, and they instruct us how to make wise choices in the nitty-gritty daily affairs of life and in the difficult, inscrutable events of life.”36 Reading the Proverbs will give the reader practical wisdom, however this wisdom should not be taken as promises. Following the instruction that Proverbs 22:6 gives concerning children would be a wise standard for one’s life. Please write Proverbs 22:6 here and then respond with one way you might carry out this verse in the life of a child that God has put into your life.

•

Now please look at Ephesians 6:1-4 which contain instructions that were written specifically for relationships within the family. What was asked of children and why? What was asked of fathers?

Instructions for children and why:

Instructions for fathers:

2. In the Scriptures in this section you will look at instructions given by specific themes that could be used as a reference in the raising of children in the ways of the Lord. This list could be the basis for praying these Scriptures on behalf of children. List the instruction, and then highlight with a colored pencil or pen the words that could become the themes or focus for prayer that are found in these Scriptures: Psalm 1:1,2 Psalm 143:8-10

Proverbs 3:5,6 Proverbs 13:20

36

Walter B. Russell, Playing with Fire, Colorado Springs, NAVPRESS, 2000, p. 161. 106

Lesson 9 List the instruction, and then highlight with a colored pencil or pen the words that could become the themes or focus for prayer that are found in these Scriptures: John 17:14-17 John 20:31 Romans 12:1,2

2 Corinthians 6:14 Ephesians 6:11 Philippians 2:5-11 Philippians 4:6-8

Colossians 1:9-12

Colossians 2:8 2 Thessalonians 3:7-10

2 Timothy 2:1

3. Before ending this section on the training of children, please read Jesus’ words explaining this in Matthew 18:1-6. After reading this paragraph, summarize Jesus’ attitude toward children and the importance of obedience to this portion of His teaching. Answer this on the next page.

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Now you will have the opportunity to read some nuggets of wisdom from parents in regard to raising godly children. Some share their sorrow regarding the mistakes they made, some share activities or patterns that led to positive responses from children. The goal is for you to be able to receive wisdom and instruction that you might be able to train up children in the way they should go, praying that in God’s grace the children He has brought into your life might not depart from these ways throughout their own life. Help your children memorize Bible verses and passages, and memorize Scripture with them. One Mother was shocked when she had a conversation with two of her teenage children about the nature of Christ. While her children had been attending church, and they knew the gospel, they have not been diligent to study God’s word to see how His truth can and must be applied to their everyday life. This Mom now gives her children Scripture to study each week, asking them to record the facts that support the theme of the passage. This Mother realized that her children were illiterate concerning truths from the Bible, as they spend so much time being influenced by the media and things of the world. Now they meet with their Mother and review what she asked them to study the week before. One Mother enjoys the outdoors, and uses family outings to share the wonders of God’s creation with her children, pointing them to God’s purpose and plan for the world. One Mother has been studying the Bible with her nine-year old son. They have been studying Titus together. Her son reads the questions, looks up the Scripture and reads it aloud, and then they meditate on the question and discuss their answers together. This time together in the word has been very special. Someone had recently asked the woman’s son how he learns about God and he said, “My Mom and I study the Bible together.” One Mother counseled that she would never discipline her children by taking away the privilege of participating in a Christian activity. She and her husband took away the experience of attending a week of camping at a Christian camp, and she shared how they would always regret that decision. Her advice was to find something else that the child in need of discipline loves doing and withhold that privilege for a specific period of time. Make Jesus real in your life so that your children see He was not just real in the past or will be real in their future, but He is longing for us to choose to have a relationship with Him day by day. As children get older, a parent’s role of helping their child make wise decisions is very important. There are some choices that some homes will not even enter into negotiations about. Their children knew that they were to attend worship services, Sunday school, and church youth activities. One Mother shared that her goal was to talk with her children about the Lord and what He means to her, showing her children that God’s word is relevant to everyday life. This Mother’s goal is to live out Deuteronomy 6:7, always seeking opportunities to share and answer questions concerning spiritual truths. Continued on the next page. 108

Lesson 9 Now please close by reading Psalm 78:1-8 and look for what commitment was made regarding the role of a parent and why this is important.

Pray asking God for one way you might interact with a child that God has put in your life, training him or her in the ways of the Lord.

Day 3 1. You might think that you could not take the role of a discipler because you do not feel that you have the gift of teaching, or you are not comfortable with teaching others. Maybe you feel you are not ready to take that role in another’s life because you are not strong enough yourself. How can you strengthen your faith in God and trust in His provision? Beyond the spiritual disciplines that have been mentioned in this study, (spending time alone with God in Bible study and prayer, fasting, Scripture memorization, and worship), accountability is a means of stretching oneself, as this in a relationship is a means of “sharpening” to bring growth in one’s faith. The book of Genesis tells of God’s intimate relationship with all of His creation and of God’s intent that man not live alone. God directed the first man and woman to rule over creation, and they were to face the challenge together. While this first relationship was a marriage, God’s word also teaches us about other relationships that demonstrate a loyalty and commitment between two individuals, one to another. Please open in prayer and begin with these observation questions. • The Bible describes a number of relationships that show us significant friendships and mentoring between individuals. The relationships of David and Jonathan as well as Naomi and Ruth went beyond what was expected in the Hebrew culture for a variety of reasons. These relationships demonstrate loyalty, concern, and love that contributed to a mutuality to help one another face difficult circumstances. The book of Proverbs teaches about friendships. Please read these verses and record what they proclaim. a. Proverbs 17:17 b. Proverbs 27:9,17

•

Please read Isaiah 41:8 to see the relationship the Old Testament patriarch Abraham had with God and then write out what God said about Abraham.

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Lesson 9 •

What would it take for you to have the relationship with God that Abraham had? The Bible declares another simple truth about Abraham in Galatians 3:6. What was involved in this relationship according to Paul’s teaching?

2. Please read Solomon’s words in Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 to determine other truths about relationships.

3.

How did Jesus describe the calling of friendship in John 15:13,14?

4. The Bible contains examples of commands for individuals in the church to hold people accountable to God’s standard of righteousness. The chart below includes examples from Scripture. Record what was taught about the believer’s responsibility and accountability. Accountable for: The spiritual atmosphere of the community

Old Testament: Leviticus 19:15

Jesus’ teaching: Matthew 18:21-24

New Testament teaching: 1 Corinthians 5:1-11

The well-being of others

Exodus 23:10-11

Matthew 18:7-10

James 2:14-17 Romans 14:13

John 13: 34,35 Hebrews 3:13 Exodus 23:5 Matthew 5:44 Hebrews 10:24,25

Reaching others

Leviticus 19:17

Matthew 28:18-20

Galatians 6:1

2 Timothy 4:2

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Lesson 9 5. The relationship of Paul and Titus provides the church with an example of a fellowship between two who followed Christ and edified and exhorted one another. At the beginning of this study of the book of Titus you read Scriptures that showed how these two men had served the Lord together and had developed a trust of one other. Paul and Titus both demonstrated a willingness to be used by God however He chose. When studying the concept of spiritual formation, I researched the idea of biblical friendship, to determine the difference this would make within a Christian personally as well as within the church. I have two close friends that I have asked to hold me accountable. They know me well and we have been connected for many years. They have promised to confront me when they have a concern about my life or my faith. What a blessing these two are to me. I trust them to confront me, and they have. I believe that our friendship meets the biblical standard, as we have made a commitment to relate to one another in a way that honors our Savior. This type of relationship has been called one of “soul companionship.” When two Christians establish a true biblical friendship, their relationship will offer love, support, encouragement, and a challenge that each might be nurtured toward wholeness.37 In this “soul companionship” relationship, each believer holds the other accountable for their plans, motives, and actions. Having this type of relationship will enhance one’s walk with the Lord and contribute to one’s spiritual formation, whereby an individual is “in the process of being conformed to the image of Christ for the sake of others.”38 When an individual has a “soul companion,” it can affect two aspects of their spiritual formation. The relationship can provide benefit to each as both are in the process of being conformed to the image of Christ, and their individual growth can then be “for the sake of the other,” through mutual support, encouragement, and accountability. I have included what is usually involved in this type of relationship. 1. The relationship involves the goal of spiritual growth with each desiring to be more mature in their walk with the Lord. 2. The relationship involves using Scripture to point one another to the truth. 3. The relationship involves intercessory prayer for one another. 4. The relationship involves biblical encouragement, that each will stand beside the other and care so much about their walk with the Lord that they challenge each other to stand firm and honor God. 5. The relationship involves biblical fellowship based on their fellowship with the Father. 6. The relationship is based on an openness, honesty, vulnerability, and transparency between the individuals where they not only let their weaknesses show, but the relationship is a two way street with mutual accountability. 39 Both must commit to being good listeners as well as being observant of each other.40 Continued on the next page.

37 38 39 40

Mulholland, Ibid., p. 146. Ibid., p. 13. Jim Petersen, Lifestyle Discipleship, Colorado Springs, NAVPRESS, 1993, p. 120. Marjorie J. Thompson, Soul Feast, Westminster, John Knox Press, 1995, p. 104. 111

Lesson 9 7. The relationship involves emotional intimacy moving beyond the surface level, or a casual commitment, to where each addresses and deals with their own failures, and builds on their successes.41 It is not the failure that is the problem, but rather the motivation behind the action that needs examining. Soul companions celebrate successes with praise, acknowledge feelings of disappointment, regret, and lowered self-esteem and help the other talk through or work through struggles. Do you have this kind of friend? If not, would you be willing to pray, asking God who you might approach to become your soul companion? Please spend some time meditating on why this is important and pray about what God would want you to do regarding this.

Day 4 1. As you open today’s lesson, ask God to help you have His heart toward His plan for you in the body of Christ. Yesterday’s lesson looked at the idea of biblical friendships, calling that kind of relationship a companionship of the soul. Many would declare numerous benefits of this, and some are given here.42 • • • • • •

True, loyal support as both develop a close relationship with the other. Personal renewal so that one’s faith does not become stagnant. A sense of self-fulfillment as each helps the other become mature in their walk. An enhanced self-esteem as iron sharpens iron and each are pointed to who they are in union with Christ. The encouragement to carry on and trust God when life is tough. A check to one’s spirit as each holds the other accountable, as “precious few do what they say they will do without a reminder, a warning, or a threat.”43

Biblical fellowship has a spiritual focus in communication. Biblical fellowship involves sharing what God is doing in your life, what He is teaching you. Anytime you meet a soul companion you can share this. Be willing to model for them how you are growing. This will involve a commitment that must be coupled with patience. Sharing this openly will encourage others to think about these questions in their own life. Following after Christ has been compared to swimming upstream, and while it is difficult, one is certainly strengthened in the process.44 John Norcross, a psychology professor, estimates that nearly half of all adults make at least one New Year’s resolution, and “one week later nearly one quarter have already bailed out. After one month, only 55 percent are still sticking with it, and after six months it’s down to 40 percent.”45 An accountability relationship could help by replacing the “impulsive, emotion-ridden promise with realistic, practical plans.”46 My friend Dave Gould has spent countless hours building into the lives of many young men who have served with him in Christian camping. Dave was encouraged in college to shape the direction of his discipleship ministry by using a covenant that each participant would commit to follow. Dave uses the following “Ten Point Covenant” with each small 41

Howard and William Hendricks, As Iron Sharpens Iron, Chicago, Moody Press, 1995, p. 209. Ibid., p. 146. 43 Charles R. Swindoll, Encourage Me, Portland, Multnomah Press, 1982, p. 58. 44 James Martin Schafer, Soul Friend Discipleship Through the Local Church, Golden Gate Seminary, p. 1. 45 Hendricks, op. cit., p. 224. 46 Ibid. 112 42

Lesson 9 group he meets with for discipleship and accountability. While this covenant might seem rigid because of its structure, those who have used this agreement feel that it brings freedom and openness among the individuals who have been involved. As you read this, think about how these covenants each reflect Scriptural truths. Ten Point Covenant 1. The Covenant of Love Your commitment to each member of the group must be of the spirit that says, “Nothing you do or say will make me stop loving you.” 2. The Covenant of Availability I will be available when humanly possible to meet with the group on the meeting dates decided. I will make myself available to any member of the group when they are in need. 3. The Covenant of Prayer I will pray for each member of the group consistently. I covenant to pray for each member in a regular fashion, believing that our heavenly Father wishes His children to pray for one another and ask Him for the blessings they need. 4. The Covenant of Confidentiality The other points in this covenant are only possible in the security of a trust relationship. I will therefore share NOTHING outside of the group that has been shared inside of the group or shared in private ministry with another member of the group. 5. The Covenant of Openness Understanding that I cannot know you and you cannot know me unless we tell each other who we are, I will make the commitment to tell you who I am, both in my weaknesses and my strengths. I promise to strive to become a more open person, disclosing my feelings, my struggles, my joys, and hurts to you as well as I am able. The degree to which I share implies that I cannot make it without you, that I trust you with my needs, and I need you. 6. The Covenant of Sensitivity I will ask God to make me sensitive to the needs of each person in our group and I will consciously make the commitment to LISTEN to each person each time they speak, whether in words, actions, or attitudes. Even as I desire to be known and understood by you I covenant to be sensitive to you and to your needs. To the best of my ability I will try to hear you, see you, and feel where you are, to draw you out of the pit of discouragement or withdrawal. 7. The Covenant of Honesty Understanding that speaking the truth in love is both positive and constructive unto bodily growth, I will allow God to use me in our group’s growth process by telling you when I agree and when I disagree. I understand that honesty does not give me the right to hurt you. 8. The Covenant of Accountability It is my conviction that God has placed me in our group for building up the body of Christ, and that from time to time within our group it will be necessary for me to seek the mind of the Lord through the counsel and advice of our group. I will accept the responsibility for their counsel and advice and report to them what I have done with their collective wisdom. 9. The Covenant of Personal Integrity Realizing the need that every person has for support and close relationships, I make a personal covenant with you to hold your name and reputation in the highest regard. I will not entertain conversation from any source that is in any way derogatory to your personal character or integrity as a person of God, without expressing my support for you and my intention to share those comments with you. 10. The Covenant of Affirmation There is nothing you have done, or will do that will make me stop loving you. I may not agree with your actions, but I will love you as a person and do all I can to hold you up in God’s affirming love. 113

Lesson 9 2. As you read through the “Ten Point Covenant” did you long to have that same kind of relationship a part of your own life? How does one find a soul companion? You might keep in mind the following list as you consider this idea. Be patient, because it will take time to find someone! Pray that God would lead you to someone who would be willing to have that role in your life. Be willing to be vulnerable as you look for a soul companion. Look for someone who has a passion for God and compassion for people. Look for someone you respect and that you can trust with personal matters. Since you’re looking for someone who considers prayer and Bible study important, join a prayer group or a Bible study and see who has a commitment to those spiritual disciplines. Look for someone who will allow you to get close with them. Look for someone of the same gender.

Do you have a friend that challenges you spiritually? Larry Crabb spent many years of his life as a Christian counselor and then training others to counsel biblically. After some soul searching he determined to change the focus of his ministry within the body of Christ. He decided that he would help others have more significant conversations about things that really matter. His desire is to connect with others in a way that will make a difference in his own life and help others see the importance of this in their lives. Do you have that same longing? What will you have to “leave behind” to sincerely connect with another? Please close your time today by quieting your heart before God and seeking His will for your life in regard to your friends.

Day 5 1. Oswald Chambers said, “When you meet a man or woman who puts Jesus Christ first, knit that one to your soul.” Please open your time of study today by reading a Proverb, perhaps the number of today’s date. Ask God to reveal His will for you as you read this Proverb and summarize your response to His truth.

There are a number of ways that a ministry of discipleship can take place. God will direct you to the way you could disciple or have an accountability relationship with another person. Today’s lesson will introduce you to different approaches that have been used by a 114

Lesson 9 number of different people. Some are shared in more detail than others. As you read, mark in some way the evidence of how God has used the relationship. a. A few years ago a young woman came to me and asked if I would disciple her. She joined the Bible study that I was teaching and our connection began through discussions focusing on God’s word. Over the years the relationship became a mentoring relationship as well, as this young woman shares the same passion that I have for teaching God’s word, and she has taken a more active role in that alongside of me! This relationship has brought blessings for both of us, and we have held each other accountable in many situations. b. “There are so many joys and blessings I have reaped since I have been discipled for the past six or seven years. At the time we began to meet we did not know each other very well, but I had observed this woman very closely, more closely than she will probably ever know. There were several concerns I had as I sought out someone to mentor me and I began noticing that this woman fulfilled each of these criteria I had tucked away in the back of my mind. I wanted someone who: • Was accepting of me and my faults and yet could see the potential in me. • Had a hunger for God and His word. • Was committed to her family and had a solid family life. • Would care about me and those around me. • Had a faith that was vital and alive, not complacent. She was not in the same spot she was twenty years ago. • Would let me get close to her and see how to be a godly woman in every setting, not just on Sunday mornings. Perhaps the first criteria, acceptance, and the last criteria, closeness, were the most important and instrumental in helping me. Having someone accept you, as Christ does, freely and without strings is a powerful force. One of the greatest things my friend has done is accept me, which has produced courage in me. I have struggled with phobias for many years and it has been a thorn in my flesh and a hindrance to me perceiving God’s love and His plan for me. My mentor and I have met and prayed together many times about these issues; and while I have not conquered each area of fear yet, I am light years ahead of where I was five years ago or even one year ago. Having a friend accept you, come along side of you and believe in you, because of Christ, has the power to move tremendous barriers whether real or imagined. The last criteria I mentioned was letting me get close. No doubt this is the most timeconsuming part of discipleship, and yet it is the tool that binds our hearts together. About three years ago I faced the scariest thing I had ever come across. I was going to have a test for a rare form of breast cancer. I found out that I would need a breast biopsy. That evening I met with my friend and was able to cry my eyes out and pour my heart out to my friend. The ironic thing was that exactly a year before she had gone through the same thing. God had brought her through the same trial and she was able to give comfort to me. You see my friend lets me get close; she has let me see her hurts, fears, and temptations. She has been transparent for me and she has let me see Christ in her. She has not put on an air of godly perfection; she has let me see her weaknesses and she has pointed me towards Christ. As I was formulating this testimony, I thought to myself, why has my friend loved me enough to share her time and really her life with me? Who am I that I should be so blessed to have the Lord reach down and touch me and challenge me through the life of one of His saints? And the challenge for me now is to ask, ‘God, how can I refuse to reach out in love to 115

Lesson 9 someone you are calling me to come alongside of and disciple?’ Will you consider that same challenge for yourself?” c. One youth pastor challenged the college-age men in his church to meet weekly for prayer and sharing and to spend time with the Lord in the word, keeping a journal record of what they learned as they studied and prayed. The young men were also asked to memorize Scripture, in fact Romans 6, 7, and 8, over a three-month period of time. When they met they said the weekly portions of the Scriptures with another person. As a group they were to share individually what they had learned in their time alone with the Lord. This helped establish the pattern of spending time with the Lord and memorizing His word. One young man listened to the Scripture on tape as he commuted to and from school each day, and was determined to complete what the group had been challenged to do. d. Another ministry of discipleship with young people involves a pastor’s wife who meets with a group of young ladies weekly. These high school ladies are expected to complete a portion of a Bible study workbook each week and come together to discuss the lesson and pray. One year in the two months before Easter the group met weekly early in the morning, and studied Jesus’ suffering and sacrifice on the cross. The teaching had a powerful impact on the group as they focused on their Savior’s love for them. e. One older man meets with a younger man twice a month for breakfast and challenges the younger man in his Christian walk. The relationship began when the younger man was going through a difficult time and the older man made the commitment to meet. Through this the Lord united their hearts with a special bond that has ministered to them both. f. You could start with a Bible study that has been significant in your own life and you and your disciplee could go through the study together when you meet. 2. Here are some questions that you could ask each time you meet in biblical fellowship as a means of mutual accountability. Questions to Ask in a Soul Companionship Relationship 1. How often did you meet with God this week? 2. What has God been saying to you through His word this week? 3. What sins in your personal or business life did you commit this week that you need to confess? 4. How did you impact your marriage and family this week? Positively? Negatively? What could you do to improve? 5. Did you pray for me/us this week? 6. What challenges or struggles are weighing on your mind? 7. What lives did you impact for Christ this week? 8. Are you giving to the Lord’s work regularly and proportionately as God has blessed you? What percentage did you give last month? 9. What movies did you see this past week? Would you be willing to tell the whole congregation what you have seen? 47 47

Paul Meier, Gene Getz, Richard Meier, and Allen Doran, Filling the Holes in Our Souls, Chicago, Moody Press, 1992, p. 70. 116

Lesson 9 3. Walter A. Henrichsen has written about the ministry of discipleship and said, “many are Christians, few are disciples, maybe that’s because so few Christians try to disciple anyone else. Are we too busy to do the most important work in the world? Or are we afraid of the personal cost to us?”48 Since spiritual mentoring is God’s plan, and even if it did not happen in your life when you became a believer, will you be obedient to God’s plan and allow Him to use you in His body, for His honor and for His glory? Being involved in a discipleship ministry will make your life count for something important for all eternity. What is important to you? Is this important to God? Jesus spoke to His disciples about this in His Sermon on the Mount. Please read Matthew 6:19-24 and record Jesus’ commands and His explanations as to why obedience to this command was important.

Would you agree that investing in others is investing in a heavenly treasure? What is the difference between self development and self fulfillment? Individuals in our society work very hard at being self-fulfilled, spending countless hours doing what makes them feel good. God would have you grow in your faith, so that your faith develops and you become mature. God would have you connect with others in the body of Christ, expressing your love to others, and using your gifts and talents to God’s honor and glory. This can only happen when you die to yourself and let go of your own desires, and you set aside your own expectations. If you demand perfection in people, you will be disappointed and frustrated. As God extended grace to His children, we are to extend God’s grace and acceptance to others. To have the attitude of Christ in service to others, God will help you give of yourself as you trust God with His plan. Obedience to God brings peace. Choosing to give of yourself for another’s good honors God. A mistake many make is to misunderstand God’s design for love. When your love for another is centered on the Lord God, you seek the best for them, and in His power, you can love others unconditionally. It is so easy to go through your day and not have your priorities right. Do you seek the Lord first? How could you make that attitude a part of your life?

Ask God to help you with that, He will help you set yourself aside and turn to Him first.

48

Walter A. Henrichsen, Disciples Are Made-Not Born, Wheaton, Victor Books, 1986. 117

Lesson 9 You might consider using this type of agreement with a friend with which you want to have an accountability relationship.

A Sample Agreement for Accountability Among Soul Companions

I, _________________________ allow you ___________________________ to hold me accountable in the area of my struggle with _________________________ and ________________________________. You have the right to ask me if I have: been in the word been memorizing Scripture been spending time with the Lord (other) ________________________ You also have the right to encourage, prod, or nag if you deem it necessary! Signed_______________________Date _________________________

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Appendix

Discipleship: Timothy with Mother and Grandmother From Young People’s Illustrated Bible History, Published by Henry Bill, 1871 Scanned by Richard Wells 2003

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Scripture Worksheets

Titus Chapter 1

Scripture Worksheets Chapter 1 1

From Paul, a servant of God, and yet an apostle of Jesus

Christ for the faith of God’s elect and the full knowledge of the truth that leads to godliness, 2which is based on the hope of eternal life that God, who cannot lie, promised before the world began. 3At the right time he revealed his message through the proclamation that was entrusted to me by the command of God our Savior. 4To Titus, a genuine child in the faith we share. May grace and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Savior be yours! 5

The reason I left you in Crete was to complete what still

needed to be done and to appoint elders in every city, as I myself commanded you. 6An elder must be blameless. He must be the husband of one wife and have children who are believers and who are not accused of having wild lifestyles or of being rebellious. 7Because an overseer is God’s administrator, he must be blameless. He must not be arrogant or irritable. He must not drink too much, be a violent person, or use shameful ways to make money. 8Instead, he must be a lover of strangers, a lover of goodness, sensible, honest, moral, and selfcontrolled. 9He must be devoted to the trustworthy message that is in agreement with our teaching, so that he may be able

International Standard Version® - 1.3

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to encourage others with healthy doctrine and refute those who oppose it. 10

For there are many people who are rebellious, especially

those who are converts from Judaism. They speak utter nonsense and deceive people. 11They must be silenced, because they are the kind of people who ruin whole families by teaching what they should not teach in order to make money in a shameful way. 12One of their very own prophets said, “Liars ever, men of Crete, savage brutes that live to eat.” 13

That testimony is true. For this reason, refute them sharply so

that they may become healthy in the faith 14and not pay attention to Jewish myths or commands given by people who reject the truth. 15Everything is clean to those who are clean, but nothing is clean to those who are corrupt and unbelieving. Indeed, their very way of thinking and their consciences have been corrupted. 16They claim to know God, but they deny him by their actions. They are detestable, disobedient, and disqualified to do anything good.

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Scripture Worksheets

Titus Chapter 2 Chapter 2

1

But as for you, teach what is consistent with healthy

doctrine. 2Older men are to be sober, serious, sensible, and sound in faithfulness, love, and endurance. 3Likewise, older women are to show their reverence for God by their behavior. They are not to be gossips or addicted to alcohol, but to be examples of goodness. 4They should encourage the younger women to be lovers of their husbands, lovers of their children, 5

sensible, pure, managers of their households, and kind, and to

submit themselves to their husbands, lest the word of God be discredited. 6 7

Likewise, encourage the younger men to be sensible.

Always set an example of good works. When you teach, show

integrity and dignity. 8Use wholesome speech that cannot be condemned. Then any opponent will be ashamed because he cannot say anything bad about us. 9

Slaves are to submit themselves to their masters in

everything, aiming to please them and not argue with them 10or steal from them. Instead, they are to show complete and perfect loyalty, so that in every way they may make the teaching about God our Savior more attractive. 11

For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to

all people. 12It trains us to renounce ungodly living and worldly passions so that we might live sensible, honest, and godly lives International Standard Version® - 1.3

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Scripture Worksheets

in the present world 13as we wait for the blessed hope and the glorious appearance of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ. 14

He gave himself for us to set us free from every wrong and to

cleanse us so that we could be his special people who are enthusiastic about good works. 15

These are the things you should say. Encourage and refute

with full authority. Do not let anyone look down on you.

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Scripture Worksheets

Titus Chapter 3 Chapter 3

1

Remind believers to submit themselves to rulers and

authorities, to be obedient, and to be ready to do any honorable kind of work. 2They are not to insult anyone or be argumentative. Instead, they are to be gentle and show perfect courtesy to everyone. 3After all, we ourselves were once foolish, disobedient, and misled. We were slaves to many kinds of lusts and pleasures, spending our days in malice and jealousy. We were despised, and we hated one another. 4

However, In grace our Savior God appeared, his love for mankind to make clear.

5

‘Twas not for deeds that we had done, but by his steadfast love alone, he saved us through a second birth, renewed us by the Spirit’s work,

6

and poured him out upon us, too, through Jesus Christ our Savior true.

7

And so, made right by his own grace, eternal life we now embrace.

8

This saying is trustworthy. I want you to insist on these things,

so that those who have put their faith in God may devote

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themselves to good works. These things are good and helpful to other people. 9

But avoid foolish controversies, arguments about

genealogies, quarrels, and fights about the law. These things are useless and worthless. 10Have nothing to do with a person who causes divisions after you have warned him once or twice. 11

For you know that a person like this is corrupt and keeps on

sinning, being self-condemned. 12

As soon as I send Artemas to you, or perhaps Tychicus,

do your best to come to me at Nicopolis, for I have decided to spend the winter there. 13Do all you can to send Zenas the expert in the law and Apollos on their way, and see that they have everything they need. 14

Our own people should also learn to devote themselves to

good works when urgent needs arise, lest they be unproductive. 15

All who are with me send you greetings. Greet those who

love us in the faith. May grace be with all of you! Amen.

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Inductive Study Methodology

Appendix

Inductive Study Methodology Definition: Using the Bible as the primary source of information and reading with a purpose by asking relevant questions, so that through complete observation, one can accurately interpret, determine eternal principles, and then apply Scripture to all circumstances of life. • • • •

God speaks through the prophets, recorded in Scripture God gave the word so that He might reveal Himself to us God speaks through Jesus, as He is the word who came in the flesh The Holy Spirit gives all believers the ability to understand the word of God

Four Components of the Inductive Study Methodology 1. Observation: Seeing what the text says, to gain facts and information The process of observation is foundational to inductive Bible study Asking the “5 Ws and an H” questions helps students focus on the obvious Who People

What Events

Where Place

When Time

Why Reason or purpose

How Means or method

2. Interpretation: Determining what the text means to gain understanding Looking for information and the correlation in the context of Scripture Context: Looking at the surrounding words, phrases, sentences, paragraphs, chapters, and book in which something exists, occurs, or is placed. The author’s use of the repetition of ideas or thoughts will also help you discover meaning within the context. 3. Principlization: Determining what eternal truths are being taught? Stating the author’s propositions, arguments, narration, and illustrations as abiding timeless truths. 4. Application: Conviction as to how the truth applies personally, leads to transformation. Component of the Methodology

Holy Spirit’s Ministry

Man’s Response

Product of Component

Observation -Focus on the obvious

Illumination

Reasoning

Facts & Information

Interpretation -Done in light of context

Teaching

Evaluation

Understanding

Principlization -Focus on Learning

Conviction

Summarization

Eternal Principles

Application -Begins with individual

Guidance

Accountability

Transformation

127

Appendix

Step 1

Inductive Study Methodology

The Overview

Discovering the Context or the Big Picture Purpose: To identify the flow of thought that ties the book together and to identify the author's reason for writing A. Who is the Author: Ask Questions

B.

C.

D. E. F.

G.

• • • • •

Who is writing and what does he say about himself? What are his circumstances? Where is he and why is he there? When in his life is he writing? Why is he writing?

• • • • • •

Who is it written to? How is the recipient described? What does it say about the recipient? What is the relationship of the recipients to the author? Where is the recipient? Why is the author writing to the recipient?

• • •

Who are the other people mentioned and what does the text say about them? What do you learn about their relationship to the author or recipient? What is their relationship to the key message?

• •

Words generally repeated throughout the text When removed the text is left without meaning

• •

Teaching doctrinal truth that would inform and equip those who follow after Christ Historical narrative, sharing historical events or personal testimony

• •

A command or imperative statement, telling someone what they are to do Usually written in the second person such as you, your, or yourself; or introduced with the phrase “let us”

Who is or who are the Recipient/s: Ask Questions

Other People Mentioned: (Either specifically, or by generalization or implication)

Look for Key Words

Look for Declarative Statements Look for Instructions or Commands

Look for Exhortations •

H. I.

128

• •

A personal message from the author to encourage the recipients regarding their own situation, whether personally or within their church Show the uniqueness of the situation that led to the book being written Sometimes introduced with the word “you,” calling or urging obedience

• •

Confronting the behavior of the recipient that has not honored God To advise strongly, to reprove, or to call the recipients to repentance

• •

To put on guard or to put on notice concerning possible danger, evil, or harm To describe a just recompense or a possible consequence for behavior based on God’s prophecy concerning judgment

Look for Admonitions Look for Warnings

Inductive Study Methodology

Step 2

Appendix

Comprehensive Chapter Study

Observation Chapter by Chapter Purpose:

A.

Marking Key Words 1. 2. 3. 4.

B. C. D.

E. F.

To examine the details of the chapter, to see how the chapter details relate to the book Mark so your eye can see on the page the occurrence of the word This is typically done with colored pencils God, Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit, and their pronouns are always keywords The key words become a basis for developing a list of facts

Making lists of the key words by writing phrases and sentences Reasoning through the lists of information from the key words Contrasts - Reasoning from another perspective Comparisons of ideas or bodies of truth that the author used to teach. • Point out differences in words or phrases • Most contrasts are identified by the following words: but, however, or never the less

Comparisons

Dealing with ideas or bodies of truth that are similar to make some point • Identified by the words: like, as

Terms of Expression

Time - Helps us answer when something occurred or will occur • Look for words like: now, then, or later Conclusion or Results or Purpose • Look for words like: for, for this reason, so that, that, or because Verb Usage – Will tell if something has occurred in the past, will occur in the future, or is to be part of the present time

Step 3

Word Studies

Purpose: To deepen understanding of the text To clarify understanding of the text To determine the meaning of unknown or confusing words or sections of texts

A.

Pick a Word 1. 2. 3.

B.

Look at the key words in the text Look at the words with unclear meanings Look at the verbs and nouns in the text

Look up the definition in a word study tool Exhaustive concordances contain three sections 1. Alphabetical list of all words used in the text of Scripture that are then ordered in biblical occurrence 2. Dictionary of Hebrew words arranged numerically 3. Dictionary of Greek words arranged numerically Expository Dictionaries Vine’s Dictionary of the New Testament: keyed to the KJV Spiros Zodhiates. Complete Word Study Dictionary of the New Testament Complete Word Study Dictionary of the Old Testament

C.

Read the definition back into the text

129

Appendix

Step 4

Inductive Study Methodology

Cross Referencing of Scripture

Purpose: To establish the context within the broader context of Scripture • • • •

Context always rules in all interpretations Amplify or clarify the understanding of the text Scripture is the best interpreter of Scripture Scripture never contradicts Scripture

A.

How to determine Cross References: 1. Look up the word in a concordance 2. Look up the word in a topical Bible 3. Look up verses identified by marginal references

B.

Read the cross reference

C.

Evaluate the message in the light of the cross reference

Step 5

Determining Paragraph and Chapter Theme and Book Title

A.

Paragraph Analysis • Determine the paragraph theme. The editors of some translations of the Bible have each verse starting on a new line within each chapter. The NASB begins each new paragraph by printing the verse number in bold type. The NIV divided the chapters into paragraphs, as we know them, indenting at the beginning of each new paragraph. When you study the ancient languages of the Bible, there are differences in paragraph divisions from one manuscript to another. The words of Scripture were inspired, but years ago, editors added verse numbers, paragraph divisions, and the divisions made by chapter numbers.

B.

Developing each Chapter Theme and the Book Title • A collection of summary statements, one for the each chapter and one for the entire book • These can be verified from key words, instructions, exhortations, admonitions, and warnings within the chapter 1. Use five words or less, with at least one actual word found in a chapter 2. Each chapter title should be distinctive from the other chapter titles 3. Each title should be descriptive of what is in the chapter 4. Place these themes on the Theme and Title Chart

130

How?

Why?

What?

Author Recipient(s) Other people Key words Declarative Statements Instructions Exhortations Admonitions Warnings

A. B. C. D. E.

F. G. H. I.

Identify the flow of thoughts which ties it together

•

A. B. C. D. E. F.

•

Examine the details of the chapter Examine how the chapter details relate to the book Marking key words Making lists of facts Reasoning the lists Contrasts Comparisons Terms of expression of time, conclusion or results

Comprehensive Chapter Studies

The Overview: Discovering the context or the big picture of the book • Identify the author’s reason for writing •

Step 2

Step 1

Deepen the understanding of the text Clarify the understanding of the text

A. Pick a word B. Look up the definition in an exhaustive concordance or an expository dictionary C. Read the definition of the word back into the text

•

•

Word Studies

Step 3

To determine the paragraph and chapter themes To determine the book title Summary statements for each paragraph, chapter, and the book From the key words, declarative statements instructions, exhortations, admonitions, and warnings Use five words or less Each chapter title should be distinctive from other chapters • Descriptive of what is in the chapter B. Place each theme on the Theme and Title Chart

Paragraph and Chapter Theme and Book Title

Step 5

Establish the context • within the broader context of Scripture • Amplify or clarify the • text A. A. Look up the word or phrase using: • a concordance • a topical Bible • • marginal references B. Read the cross reference C. Evaluate the message in the light of the cross reference • • •

Cross Referencing Scripture

Step 4

Inductive Study Methodology: Summary of the Process

Appendix

Appendix

Titus Theme and Title Chart

Summary Statements

Titles BOOK

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

133

Map

Appendix

Appendix

Twelve Steps of Wholeness

A valuable resource for anyone struggling with compulsive behaviors.

Following a tradition of the early church and the Wesley revival, the Oxford Group systematized a series of “steps” as a process of cleansing one’s inner life. The organization calling themselves Alcoholics Anonymous adapted these “Twelve Steps,” however for the most part they ignored the Christian foundation. They are here re-adapted emphasizing the great Christian base so integral to the wholeness sought. Here the center of wholeness is recognized as the Lord Jesus Christ. The “steps” have also been extended to conform to other principles of discipleship and Christian growth. If a Christian will vigorously apply these principles, and make these decisions, that person will move toward “teleios, wholeness in Christ. 1. I now see that I, of myself, am powerless, unable to control (manage) my life by myself. Romans 7 - 8

Romans 7:18-19

Romans 3:9-10,23

Psalm 32:3-7

2. I now realize that my Creator, God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, can restore me to wholeness in Christ. Psalm 27:4-5

Ezekiel 36:27

Mark 10:26-27

Philippians 2:13

Romans 8:9

3. I now make a conscious decision to turn my entire will and life over to the care and direction of Jesus Christ as Teacher, Healer, Savior, and Lord. Joshua 1:8-9 John 10:30

Jeremiah 29:11-14 Mark 10:27

Jeremiah 32:27 Matthew 28:18,20b

John 14:6

4. Having made this decision, I now obey God’s call in Scripture to make a fearless, ethical, moral, and Scriptural inventory of my entire life in order to uncover all sins, mistakes, and character defects, and to make a written list of every item uncovered. Psalm 139:23-24

Lamentations 3:40

Jeremiah 23:24

Romans 8:26-27

5. After completing this inventory I now will to “walk in the light, as He is in the light” by admitting to myself, to God, and to at least one other person in Christ the exact nature of these wrongs. 1 John 1:7 Acts 13:38-39

Ephesians 5:13-14 James 5:13-16

Psalm 119:9-11 Hebrews 9:14

1 Timothy 1:15 Acts 2:37-38

6. Having told God about my sinful behavior, I accept His forgiveness through Christ and openly acknowledge that I am forgiven according to the Scripture. 1 John 1:8-9

James 4:10

1 John 2:1-2

Psalm 27:13-14

Psalm 118:18,17

137

Twelve Steps of Wholeness (continued) 7. I now repent (turn away) from all these behaviors in thought, word, and deed, and ask God to remove each besetting sin, through Jesus Christ. John 5:14 Romans 5,6 Colossians 3:17

John 8:10-11 Romans 12:1,2

Job 11:13-19 1 John 2:3-6

Ezekiel 18:30-32 2 Corinthians 10:3-55

8. I now make a list of all persons I have harmed in thought, word, and deed, and a list of all persons I believe have harmed me, and will to make amends to all of them. Ephesians 4:29-32 Matthew 5:9,43-44

Hosea 11:1-4 Matthew 18:15

Ephesians 5:1,2 Leviticus 19:17,18

Luke 6:31 Mark 12:31

9. I now go directly to these persons to forgive and to seek forgiveness, reconciliation, restitution, or release whenever and with whomever possible, unless to do so would cause further harm. Matthew 5:23,24

Isaiah 1:18-20

10. I now consciously and prayerfully continue to “walk in the light” by unceasingly taking personal inventory of all my temptations and sins, and by keeping a constantly open relationship with God, myself, and other persons. Matthew 6:11-13 Ephesians 5:15-18

Ephesians 4:22-28 Psalm 4:3-5

Colossians 3:13 Psalm 55:22

Proverbs 30:8,9 1 Peter 5:6,7

11. I now continue in regular Scripture study, prayer, worship, and fellowship to increase God’s will in my life. Acts 2:42 Joshua 1:8

Mark 12:28-33 1 Kings 8:56-61

Matthew 6:33 Colossians 3:12-17

Psalm 89:15 Psalm 119:11

12. Recognizing the impact of God in my life, I now intentionally share these principles and their effect with others as God’s Spirit leads, and will to practice these principles in all areas of my life. Micah 6:8 Revelation 12:11

Ephesians 5:8 2 Corinthians 3:17

Psalm 40:8-10 Ephesians 6:10-18

Galatians 5:1

Prepared by Dr. Gary R. Sweeten and Hall B. Schell Published by permission of: Equipping Ministries International, Inc. 640 Northland Blvd., Suite 20 Cincinnati, OH 45241 Phone: 513-742-1100 Email: [email protected] Web: www.equipmin.org 138

Appendix

Profiles49 The Profile of a Convert 1. 2. 3.

He/she gives evidences of possessing new life, 2 Corinthians 5:17. His/her attitude toward Jesus Christ is now favorable. His/her attitude toward sin is now unfavorable, John 16:8.

The Profile of a Growing Disciple 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

As a follower of Jesus Christ, he/she puts Christ first in the major areas of his/her life and is taking steps to separate from sin, Luke 9:23; Romans 12:1,2. He /she continues in the word through such means of intake as Bible study and Scripture memory; he/she is regular in applying the word to his/her life with the help of the Holy Spirit, John 8:31; James 1:22-25; Psalm 119:59. He/she maintains consistent devotional life and is growing in faith and intercessory prayer, Mark 1:35; Hebrews 11:6; Colossians 4:2-4. He/she attends church regularly and demonstrates Christ’s love by identifying with and serving other believers, Psalm 122:1; Hebrews 10:25; John 13:34,35; 1 John 4:20,21; Galatians 5:13. He/she is openly identified with Jesus Christ where he lives and works, manifests a heart for witnessing, gives his testimony clearly, and presents the gospel regularly with increasing effectiveness, Matthew 5:16; Colossians 4:6; 1 Peter 3:15. He/she is a learner who is open and teachable, Acts 17:11.

The Profile of a Worker 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

He/she evidences growth in the virtues and skills outlined under The Profiles of a Growing Disciple, 1 Peter 3:18. He/she shows a growing compassion for the lost and demonstrates his ability to lead men to Christ personally, Matthew 9:36-38, Romans 1:16. He/she is being used of God to establish believers who have become disciples, either personally or in a discipling group context, Colossians 1:28,29. He/she is currently engaged in the task of making disciples, Matthew 28:19,20. Regular intake of the word by all means and a quiet time with God is now a part of his life, Philippians 4:8,9.

The Profile of a Leader 1. 2. 3. 4.

49

He/she is an equipped worker who evidences growth in the virtues and skills listed under The Profile of a Worker. He/she has been used of God to help disciples become workers, 2 Timothy 2:2. He/she is banding and leading workers in evangelizing the lost and establishing believers, Mark 1:38. He/she displays faithfulness and integrity in his life and ministry, 2 Timothy 2:19-21.

LeRoy Eims, The Lost Art of Disciple Making, Grand Rapids, Zondervan, 1978, pp. 184-186.

139

Appendix

Word Studies Listed by English Word, Strong’s Number, and Page Number in Lesson

Examples of goodness 2567

Greek Words A Addicted 1402 Administrator 3623 Apostle 652 Appearance 2015 (Be) argumentative 269 Arrogant 829 Attractive 2885 Authorities 1849 Authority 2003

54 27 18 71 82 27 68 81 42

B Behavior 2688 Blameless 410

52 26

C Cannot be condemned 176 Chose 1586 Clean 2513 Cleanse 2511 Condemnation 2631 (His own) condemnation 843 Conformed 4832 Conformed 4964 Controversies 2214 Converts from Judaism 4061 Corrupt 1612 Corrupt 3392

42 21 30 71 96 95 47 47 94 30 95 30

D Deceive people 5423 Deeds 2041 Dignity 4587 Disciple 3101 Discredited 987 Disobedient 545 Divisions 141 Doctrine 1319 Drink too much 3943

30 86 42 14 61 82 95 41 27

E Elders 4245 Elect 1588 Encourage3870 Encourage 4994 Endurance 5281 Eternal 166 Example 5179

26 20 42 57 45 87 41

54

F

Faith 4102 Faithfulness 4102 Fights 3163 Foolish 453 Foolish 3474 Full knowledge 1922

20 45 94 82 94 20

G Genealogies 1076 Gentle 1933 Glorious 1391 Godliness 2150 Godly 2153 Good 2570 Gossips 1228 Grace 5485 Grace 5544

94 82 71 20 71 54, 94 52 20 86

H Have nothing to do with 3868 Healthy 5198 Helpful 5624 Honest 1342 Honest 1346 Honorable 18 Hope 1680 Husband 435

95 30, 41 94 27 71 81 20, 71 26

I Irritable 3711 Insult 987 Integrity 90

27 82 42

K Kind 18

61

L Law 3544 Life 2222 Love 26 Love 5368 Love for mankind 5363 (Steadfast) love 1656 Lover of goodness 5358 Lover of strangers 5382 Lovers of their husbands 5362

94 87 45 57 86 86 27 27 57 141

Lovers of their children 5388 Lusts 1939

57 82

M Made right 1344 Malice 2549 Managers of their households 3626 Masters 1203 Misled 4105 Moral 3741 Myths 3453

87 82 61 68 82 27 30

N Needs 5532 Nicopolis 3533

98 98

O (To be) obedient 3980 Older men 4246 Older women 4247 Overseer 1985

81 44 51 27

P Passions 1939 Peace 1515 Perfect courtesy 4236 Pleasures 2237 Poured 1632 Predestined 4309 Pure 53

71 20 82 82 86 21 61

Q Quarrels 2054

94

R Rebellious 506 Refute 1651 Regeneration 3824 Renewed 342 Renounce 720 Reverence for God 2412 Rulers 746

26 42 88 86 71 51 81

S Salvation 4992 Saved 4982 Saying 3056 Self-controlled 1468 (To be) sensible 4993 Sensible 4998 Serious 4586 Servant 1401 142

71 86 94 27 45 27, 45, 61 44 17

Set free 3084 Sinning 264 Slaves 1398 Slaves 1401 Sober 3524 Sound 5199 Special 4041 Speak utter nonsense 3151 Speech 3056 Steadfast love 1656 Submit themselves 5293

71 95 82 68 44 45 71 30 42 86 61, 68, 81

T Teach 1319 Teach 2980 Truth 225 Trustworthy 4103

42 41 20 94

U Unbelieving 571 Ungodly living 763 Urgent 3116 Use shameful ways to make money 146

30 71 98 27

V Violent person 4131

27

W Warned 3559 Washing 3067 Wholesome 5199 Wild life-styles 810 Work 2041 Works 2041

95 88 42 26 82 42

Y Younger women 3501

57

Hebrew Words A Amen 543

34

R Reverence 3374

52

W Words 1697

34

Appendix

Bibliography Aldrich, Sandra P. “Five Expressions of Love,” Colorado Springs, Focus on the Family, April 1997. Alford, Henry. The New Testament for English Readers. Chicago, Moody Press, 1958. Barnhart, Clarence L. & Robert K. Barnhart, editors. The World Book Dictionary, Vol. 2. Chicago, World Book, Inc., 1985. Black, Claudia. Repeat After Me. Denver, MAC Publishing, 1985. Butler, Trent C., editor. Holman Bible Dictionary. Nashville, Holman Bible Publishers, 1991. Chambers, Oswald. My Utmost for His Highest. New York, Dodd, Mead and Company, 1935. Eims, LeRoy. The Lost Art of Disciple Making. Grand Rapids, Zondervan, 1978. Epp, Theodore. The Other Comforter. Lincoln, NE, Back to the Bible Broadcast, 1956. Finzel, Hans. Observe, Interpret, Apply. Wheaton, Victor Books, 1994. House, H. Wayne. Charts of Christian Theology and Doctrine. Grand Rapids, Zondervan Publishing, 1992. Illustrated Davis Dictionary of the Bible. Nashville, Royal Publishers, 1973. Kuhne, Gary W. Discipleship. Grand Rapids, Zondervan Publishing House, 1981. Landau, Sidney I., editor. The Doubleday Dictionary. Garden City, Doubleday & Co. Inc., 1975. Myers, Ruth. 31 Days of Praise. Sisters, OR., Questar Publishing, 1994. Russell, Walt. Playing with Fire. Colorado Springs, NAVPRESS, 2000. Sweeten, Gary R. and Hall B. Schell. “Twelve Steps to Wholeness,” Equipping Ministries International, Cincinnati, OH. The Twelve Steps: A Spiritual Journey. Curtis, WA, RPI Publishing, Inc., 1988. Wuest, Kenneth. Word Studies in the Greek New Testament. Grand Rapids, Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., 1973. Wuest, Kenneth. Wuest’s Word Studies. Grand Rapids, Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., 1952. Zodhiates, Spiros. The Complete Word Study New Testament. Chattanooga, AMG Publishers, 1991. Zodhiates, Spiros. The Hebrew-Greek Key Study Bible. Chattanooga, AMG Publishers, 1990.

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Sunergos Bible Studies Name of Study: Book Studies: Joshua and the Call to Live Victoriously by Faith The Book of Ruth The Life of David The Book of Nehemiah The Book of Esther Jonah The Sermon on the Mount The Gospel According to Mark The Epistle to the Romans Galatians and the Fruit of the Spirit Ephesians Philippians and the Call to Biblical Fellowship Colossians Titus and the Call to Biblical Discipleship Philemon (Learn the Inductive Bible Study methodology with this short study) James Topical Studies: Old Testament Worship for Followers of Christ Prayers of the Bible Women of the Word Discipleship Series Studies:

Number of Lessons: 10 4 12 8 5 10 14 22 23 10 12 12 9 9 2 11 8 12 12

The format of the Discipleship Series is different, as each lesson is like one day’s work in the other studies.

The Call to Biblical Character – An In-depth Look at the Beatitudes (Matthew 5:10-12) The Call to Bear Fruit by the Power of the Spirit – An In-depth Look at Galatians 5:22, 23 The Call to Live Victoriously by Faith – An In-depth Look at Ephesians 6:10-20 The Call to Biblical Fellowship – An In-depth Look at the “One Another” Commands A Woman’s Call to Biblical Discipleship – An In-depth Look at Titus 2:3-5

11 12 10 12 16

All of these lessons are in-depth inductive Bible studies that encourage the students to examine Scripture through observation before seeking to interpret, while looking for eternal principles in the word that can be applied to their own life. While the studies encourage critical thinking, they also provide some “commentary” from a variety of conservative sources. The studies include instruction for studying inductively, and the work for each lesson has been divided into five days. All studies have been formatted with two options for completing the lessons. The student who has less time for study can complete the opening observation questions which cover the portion of Scripture or theme for the day, and then the student can move to the last question/s which might incorporate other Scriptures and as well as several application questions. The other option is for the student to complete the entire lesson for each day and that would generally take between 30 minutes to one hour. This option includes word studies and an in-depth look at the passage or theme for the day. Leader’s Guides are available for each study to provide resources for those interested in leading a study. Check the Sunergos Bible Studies’ website www.sunergosbible.org for availability, costs, and ordering options. New studies, leader’s guides, and other resources are available from the website.

Book Summary This inductive Bible study focuses on the message for the early Christian church on the island of Crete, off the coast of Greece. The study carefully examines the Apostle Paul’s concerns for believers who would be led by the disciple Titus. This in-depth nine-week study also looks at the biblical call to discipleship. The book of Titus contains teaching concerning salvation as well as practical guidelines for living in relationship with Christ. The study considers many practical application questions, challenging class members to grow stronger in their faith and in their walk with the Lord. The study provides a number of options for completing the lessons. It also offers reflections in Scripture to provide times of daily worship addressing the role of Christians in the church. Students will benefit from the suggestions in the accompanying leader’s guide.

Author Profile JAN WELLS has been married forty years, is the mother of two grown children, and a grandmother. A former English and history teacher, Jan has written twenty in-depth, inductive studies reflecting her passion for the Lord and His word. Incorporated in Jan’s writing are a commitment to the importance of the ministry of discipleship within the body of Christ and a sensitivity to the differences in the way people think and learn. Jan, the creator of Sunergos Bible Studies, has taught the Bible to adults for over twenty years in an interdenominational ministry. The author has an M.A. in Christian Ministry from Simpson University (C&MA) and is pursuing an M.Div. from Golden Gate Baptist Theological Seminary (SBC). Sunergos Bible Studies have been used in a number of churches throughout the country and internationally, and because of their thoroughness, they have become valuable resources for many pastors and Bible teachers.