Truth and Godliness in Public Life

Minister:
Date: PM
Text: Titus 3:1,2
Psalters: 133, 40, 389, 81
  1. Good citizens.
    1. We need to be “put in mind” that we have duties here on earth.
      1. Remind because Paul had already talked to the Cretan Christians about these matters when he was on the island.
      2. Highly likely that the Cretans as a whole were unhappy with the Roman yoke (cf. I Tim. 2:1-4).
    2. The calling of the Christian is to recognize God’s authority in those who rule.
      1. The activity is first, to arrange oneself under, willingly to subject oneself to another.
      2. Second, to obey an originator (ruler).
    3. We have the very highest motive for this: our Lord’s will (cf. Romans 13:1- 5).
      1. Christianity touches every aspect of our life and always.
      2. This is the knowledge that God has all authority (Dan. 2:21,37; 4:17b).
  2. Good neighbors.
    1. “Ready to every good work” (II Tim. 3:17).
      1. Christians, grateful for unconditional grace, are to be ready always to be helpful and useful, doing it joyfully.
      2. The motive is purely Christian - consciously reflecting the image of God’s Son.
    2. “To speak evil of no man” is to blaspheme (revile, speak reproachfully) no one.
      1. As bad as some rulers and fellow-citizens may be, the Christian has no excuse for sinful language.
      2. Believers should revile not one (cf. I Tim. 6:4).
    3. “To be no brawlers, but gentle.”
      1. We are to be not contentious nor quarrelsome, non-fighters (certainly elders, I Tim. 3:3).
      2. The positive virtue to be displayed publicly is equitable, fair, mild and gentle, patient in I Tim. 3:3.
    4. “Shewing meekness unto all men” is the inward virtue behind the former conduct.
      1. Meekness is to govern us in regard to ALL men (II Tim. 2:25).
      2. It always remembers that we are sinners among sinners, and thus bears what the sins of others inflict on us.
    5. All of this is impossible apart from God’s grace!! But the doctrines of salvation by grace are the enabling power.