Titus 1: 7-8
Since an overseer manages God's household, he must be blameless--not overbearing, not quick-tempered, not given to drunkenness, not violent, not pursuing dishonest gain. Rather, he must be hospitable, one who loves what is good, who is self-controlled, upright, holy and disciplined.
Even though Paul is talking about choosing elders for the church, shouldn't we all strive to meet these qualifications? It does take discipline to stay on the right track and follow Christ. But it is not just discipline for discipline's sake. In these passages I believe Paul is describing a person who has internalized God's law and desires for us. This discipline is like their connection with the Holy Spirit. They are living as God would ask them to live- or at least making a great effort to do so.
Holy One, your Holy Spirit lives in me, and is willing to show me the way. Help me to practice the self-discipline needed to stop and listen. Amen
Becky, transforming
Pic by Kay
Titus 1:7–8
And Elder is a manager of God’s household, so he must live a blameless life. He must not be arrogant or quick-tempered; he must not be a heavy drinker, violent, or dishonest with money. Rather, he must enjoy having guests in his home, and he must love what is good. He must live wisely and be just. He must live a devout and disciplined life.
As a mentor, Paul is explaining to Titus the high standards he and his chosen church leaders must meet. If we look at the last line – to live a devout and disciplined life – we see that the previous instruction should be easy if you live this way. These instructions should be…
Discipline
March 8th, 2023
Titus 1:7-8
Since an overseer manages God's household, he must be blameless—not overbearing, not quick-tempered, not given to drunkenness, not violent, not pursuing dishonest gain Rather, he must be hospitable, one who loves what is good, who is self-controlled, upright, holy and disciplined.
Paul’s urgent need is to instruct Titus to appoint overseers to the church. A man who is both trustworthy and led by the Spirit of God. If his home life is not in order, don’t give him responsibilities over the family of God. A man who is not devoted to his wife and whose children are unruly and rebellious should not be put into church leadership. An individual, who likes to dictate the…
Titus 1: 7-8 Fairly or unfairly, church leaders are held to a higher standard of discipline and conduct than others. But comparably, in society, fairly or unfairly, Christians are held to a higher standard of conduct than non-believers. In fact, it is often non-believers who are the fastest to point out the shortcomings of believers even though they do not adhere to the same standards. Absolutely none of this should concern those who follow Christ. If we take our faith seriously, we will practice the spiritual disciplines that best fit our talents and aptitudes, whether it be prayer, study of the Word, meditation, service to others, journaling, others or any combination of these. I will occasionally stumble and may even become…