THE EPISTLE OF PAUL THE APOSTLE TO TITUS

CHAPTER 3
 

FOR WE WRESTLE NOT AGAINST FLESH AND BLOOD BUT AGAINST PRINCIPALITIES

FOR WE WRESTLE NOT AGAINST FLESH AND BLOOD BUT AGAINST PRINCIPALITIES STUDY WITH FOR WE WRESTLE NOT AGAINST FLESH AND BLOOD BUT AGAINST PRINCIPALITIES MESSAGE.
 

          Great to have you back to share another slice of Daily Bread. So far in our study of Paul’s letter to Titus, we’ve learned that Paul has given Titus the challenging task of being pastor of the church at Crete. This letter is Paul’s advice to Titus about the elders that he should appoint to oversee the work of the church and the doctrine that he should teach.

          The elders aren’t the only ones who need to have godly characteristics though, as we learned in the last chapter study. Paul explains that each member of the Church has important roles if they intend to represent the body of Christ.

          We’ve been putting ourselves in Titus’ shoes, to get an idea of what it would be like to be assigned such a feat, because in essence, we are. In the first chapter, Paul warns that there are many people who are disruptive, and deceivers, who talk badly about the Faith, and we find that to be the case today as well ... even Christians who aren't mature in their faith.

          Nevertheless, Paul encourages us with zeal to hold fast (be dedicated and determined) in our Faith, and be examples of the goodness of the Lord by our lifestyle. Now let’s read the conclusion of Paul’s letter.

          Teach the people to be subject (obedient) to principalities and powers, to obey magistrates (judicial authorities), to be fruitful in every good work, to speak evil of no one, not to be violent, but gentle, showing meekness to all people.

FOR WE WRESTLE NOT AGAINST FLESH AND BLOOD BUT AGAINST PRINCIPALITIES LESSON WITH FOR WE WRESTLE NOT AGAINST FLESH AND BLOOD BUT AGAINST PRINCIPALITIES EXPLANATION

          Reject anyone who is an heretic (seeking to divide) AFTER the first and second warning, knowing that he who behaves this way is subverted (turned away), and sins, being condemned of himself.

          When I send Artemas to you, or Tychicus (accompanied Paul into Asia in the book of Acts), be sure to visit me in Nicopolis, because I have decided to spend the winter there. Bring Zenas the lawyer and Apollos on their journey with love, and supply them all their needs. (Paul first met Apollos in Ephesus where he was enthusiastically spreading the Gospel.)

          And let our people also learn to maintain good works for necessary uses (profess honest trades for urgent needs), that they won’t be unfruitful. (In other words, Paul is urging Titus to urge the people to do work that benefits other believers, not something that is useless to other Christians.) All who are with me send their best. Greet those who love us in the Faith. God’s Grace be with you all. Amen.

          Many good pointers for us to follow are included in this letter from Paul to Titus. Don’t ever forget that we’re all really in the same position as Titus, setting the Church in order for our Lord and Savior. Any advice from a spiritual giant like Paul is welcome and revered, so keep his advice in mind as you continue your walk of Faith, and in your spreading of the Gospel of Jesus Christ to potential and fellow Christians.

          Come on back soon and join in our next study of The Epistle of Paul the Apostle to Philemon. You can always find what you need to enrich your faith and deepen your understanding, right here at Daily Bread.