PAUL'S LETTER TO TITUS

BACKGROUND AND HISTORICAL CONTEXT

• Titus: leader of the church at Crete
• Crete ==> unliked, known for moral faults-- "people of Crete are liars..."
• Titus was a Gentile -- some Jewish Christians had demanded he be circumcised
• Crete was a large, mountainous island, in the Aegan Sea in the Medit.
• Famous for King Minor and Minoan civilization (2600-1100 BC)

CHAPTER 1

• Apostleship - instructions for church leaders:
• Live a blameless life
• Don't be arrogant, violent, dishonest with money
• Live wisely, have strong faith in your teachings
• Have a pure heart; live like you know God

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

• How can we strive to actually live a "blameless" life?
• When have you faltered regarding some of Paul's instructions?

CHAPTER 2

• To Titus: Promote right teaching
• Older men: self control, live wisely, be worthy of respect
• Older women: teach what is good, train younger women
• Reflect seriousness of your teachings, do good works
• Teach the truth.

CHAPTER 2

• Slaves: obey your masters, try to please them
• Turn from sin -- live in this evil world with:
• Wisdom, righteousness, and devotion to God.
• Jesus gave us a life free from sin.
• We must be committed to doing good deeds.

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

• What do you think about Paul's slavery instructions?
• How can we live out our faith through good deeds?
• Who do you know that lives with the virtues Paul describes?

CHAPTER 3

• Be obedient to authorities, dont speak evil, be gentle, be courteous
• Be ready to do good works - however, they don't justify us
• God's grace justifies us and saves -- his mercy renews us
• Don't have silly arguments, and avoid those who create division.
• Help those in need - be fruitful in your faith.

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

• If we are justified by faith, what role does good works play?
• Do you think Paul calls us to obey bad rulers/governments?
• What are some examples of "foolish controversies" in our lives?