Titus

It took be about 20 minutes to read this book.  Paul put a lot of information in this very short letter to Titus.  There are a few items that I think are noteworthy (none of which are foundational doctrines, but very interesting).

In 1:5 Paul reminds Titus of the charge to appoint congregational leaders in each city.  This was not the beginnings of the ministerial association, but more likely a congregation of elders.  The leaders of a city were given the responsibility to work out how the body was going to present the gospel in that city, care for the needed, and disciple new converts.  The perspective that Paul lays out for Titus is not limited to a single congregation.  I think that we short change the strength of THE CHURCH when we deal only with a church (single congregation).

In 2:1-10 Paul addresses older men, older women, young men, young women, and slaves with some details on living a holy life in their particular circumstances.  Though not comprehensive lists he addresses the areas that are probably the greatest vulnerability for each of those groups.

Finally in 3:14 Paul throws a blanket over everyone; learn how to meet real needs through good works.  That is a wonderfully plain application of the command Jesus gave Christians; “love one another.”

Stuart