Titus 2:1-15

What must be taught to various groups:

This follows Paul's advice to Timothy. What stands out to me is that God knows us at our various stages in life. It just shows once again that God created us & understands us better than we understand ourselves.

Older Men - think of grumpy old men. As we age, we lose our innocence & have a tendency to become pessimistic & intolerant. Paul states older men should be taught to hold onto their self-control & temperament. Old men should be worthy of the respect given to them. This is important - respect is given regardless. However, older men shouldn't abuse the respect given to them.

Older Women - think Golden Girls. As women age, we start gossiping more, relax our morals, and lose our purpose. Paul says we need to stay reverent (respectful, worshipful). Find purpose in mentoring young women. Use your knowledge to benefit others, but do so in a way that is reverent.

Young Men - those adventure loving, spontaneous go-getters. Practice self-control and integrity. Think before you speak!

Young Women - Look back up to old women. Young women should practice self-control and purity. Stay busy - idle hands lead to problems. If you are married and have children, put them first in your life. You are called to be their caregiver. Does this mean women shouldn't work? Not necessarily. Some families need two incomes, some women have a calling, and some are raising a family on their own. I think of my sister. She is a wife, mother, and charge nurse at Children's ICU. She is fabulous at her job & I believe she is living out her calling, but her husband & children know that she is always there for them. They are her number 1 priority.

Slaves - Why does Paul always talk about slaves? Because it was a major part of society. Abolishing slavery in ancient Rome would have been detrimental to the slaves. They had no other place to go, no other way to make money and support their families. Rather than make things harder, Christianity sought to change people's opinions of slaves. They were to be treated as brothers in Christ. And slaves were to be hard, trustworthy workers. Their attitude was to reflect the attitude of Christ in order to show their unbelieving masters what an awesome God we serve.

"For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. It teaches us to say "No" to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age." Notice that God's salvation teaches us to say NO. Being a Christian doesn't remove temptation in this world. It's not a magic switch that makes you perfect. It is a daily choice. Faith in God means you trust that He has your best interest at heart; therefore, you are going to say "NO" to what will hurt you & others. Find the peace & joy of the Lord by doing what He says. You will never go wrong.