In everything, be an example of good works. In your doctrine (instruction or teaching), show firmness, incorruptness (soundness), sincerity, clear speech, that cannot be condemned, so that whoever is against you, feeling unworthy, will have nothing evil to say about you.

          Urge servants to be obedient to their own masters, and to please them well in all things, not back talking, or stealing, but showing good loyalty, that they reveal the doctrine of God our Savior in all things.

          The Grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men, teaching us that denying ungodliness and worldly desire, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in this present world, looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Savior Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem (rescue) us from all iniquity, and purify for Himself a peculiar (extraordinary) people, zealous (impassioned) of good works.

          Preach these things and encourage the people, and rebuke (reprimand, criticize) with all authority. Let no man despise you.

          It looks like the elders aren’t the only ones in the church who are required to be true to the Faith. That’s something that many people don’t take as seriously as they should. No, Paul is telling you that it must be taught, that in the believers’ daily lives, they must practice the things that Jesus taught are necessary for salvation.

          A lot of people may think that it was easier in a different day and age to live a Christian life, but folks, put yourself in any other era, and you’ll find that any time was a difficult time. I’d be willing to suggest that most people today would find it harder to be a Christian if you took away their microwave oven for a week. Try taking away modern transportation, television, computers, running water, electricity, and housing as we know it, and hand them a Bible. Do you think it would be easier?

          Now, you’ve taken away many comforts, but you’ve also taken away the means by which much evil is introduced into today’s world. Would that make it easier or more difficult to lead a Christian life? You must say, it’s hard to say with any kind of certainty that one time period was easier than another, to live as a Christian. Every generation has it’s challenges, so Titus, you have to teach the people that living a Christian life is a spiritual decision that affects the way you live your life. It has nothing to do with time, age, wealth, technology, etc.

        Titus had the entire island of Crete to convert. He also dedicated his life to spreading the Gospel, through preaching and organizing the church. Now let’s talk about you. Chances are you’re not in any kind of religious vocation, so how do you spread the Gospel? By living it. By being an example to others. As Jesus said, don’t be a hypocrite, but exemplify Him in your every day life, in your every-moment actions. Walk like Jesus walked. That means, live like Jesus lived.

          Are you anxious to read the conclusion of Paul’s letter to you . . . I mean to Titus? Well, join in again next time, and we’ll share it together, right here at Daily Bread.