In Titus 1, Paul gives qualities of male elders in the church. An elder must be “ above reproach”. This is a high standard but what Paul is emphasizing is that leaders must set an example to others of Christ-like morals and behaviours. He specifies some of these qualities: “the husband of one wife, not arrogant or quick-tempered, not a drunkard or violent or greedy for gain, hospitable, a lover of good, self-controlled, upright, holy, and disciplined. “ A leader can not be effective if he doesn’t lead by example. A leader or teacher doesn’t have to be perfect or sinless but must show subjection to God’s Word. “He must hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught, so that he may be able to give instruction in sound doctrine and also to rebuke those who contradict it.” (1: 9)
As women, we may also have positions of leadership. We may teach a Sunday school class or Bible Study. We may disciple other women individually or in small groups. Even in our own homes, we teach and influence our family by example. As we grow in our knowledge of God’s Word and apply it to our relationships with others, we too can have an important influence in the lives of others.
In Titus 2, older women are specifically mentioned and their role in teaching other women is an important one indeed. “Older women likewise are to be reverent in behaviour, not slanderers or slaves to much wine. They are to teach what is good, and so train the young women to love their husbands and children, to be self-controlled, pure, working at home, kind, and submissive to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be reviled. (2:3-5). Imagine how contradictory it would be to teach that you should love others and then nag, berate and gossip about your husband. Your home should be a haven, the place where your spouse, children and grandchildren experience the love of God. Oh, how I love to hear men speak kindly and reverently about their wives. It helps me to be more mindful of how I talk about my husband in the presence of others.
In Titus 3, Paul reminds us that it is the influence of God and His Spirit that helps us to turn away from our sinful, worldly behaviours. We are encouraged to extend Christ-like love and submission in all facets of our life. Every person we encounter is a potential soul to be won for Christ. Christ-like love should be shown to all people and not just the ones who are nice and helpful to us.
“Remind them to be submissive to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good work, to speak evil of no one, to avoid quarrelling, to be gentle, and to show perfect courtesy toward all people.” (Titus 3:1-2)