20131020
In the introduction of his letter to his co-worker Titus, the Apostle Paul shares his life purpose and his motivation. He wants to increase the faith of the Cretan Christians and their knowledge of the truth so that it might lead to godliness. This is not in vain pursuits, but in the sure hope of eternal life which God promises from the beginning of time. This reminds us to reflect upon the purpose and motivation of our being and our doing. What motivates us as we live our daily lives? What is the purpose of our service where we are serving and of our actions in what we are doing?
Paul was also very serious to let Titus know about the task entrusted to him by “God our Saviour“. He acknowledges that God saved him from death and that he was entrusted the important mission of preaching the good news of a risen Jesus to people leading to their salvation. However, he knows that he would not live forever and hence would have to pass on this important task to others – passing the baton. Paul gives clear instructions to his co-worker Titus for the appointment of Elders (Overseer) of the Churches in the Greek island of Crete.
At that time, Crete was infamous for immorality, disputes and sloth. Paul may have been one of those who started these churches and he was very concerned with how the Churches were being led. He explains the need for good leadership in the Churches and also warns against false teachings that face the leaders. He then lays out the criteria of being a good leader – including faith that results in actions, obeying authorities and being considerate. Lastly in his letter he gives teachings to Titus about disciplining false teachers and removing them and their teachings to keep the spiritual purity of the Christian faith.
In Paul’s Pastoral letters to the Churches, we always see his emphasis on passing on his knowledge to his disciples, Timothy and Titus, so that they are well equipped as disciples to do the Lord’s work. For BKC, we too need to place the same emphasis and importance on discipleship beyond simply providing good Christian fellowship. Let us all in the fellowship of believers see the importance of passing on our biblical Christian knowledge for the growth of BKC and the extension of God’s kingdom.
