Paul has left Titus on the isle of Crete around 64 AD to “put in order what was left unfinished and appoint elders in every town.” (Titus 1:5) Paul also instructed Titus to focus on teaching sound doctrine (1:9) in the church and teaching behavior that “is appropriate to sound doctrine.” (Titus 2:1)
Along with the teaching of sound doctrine comes the fruit of having heard, understood and believed that sound doctrine from the Word of Truth. In Titus chapter 3 Paul gives a series of behaviors
that are appropriate to the believer’s interaction with people and governments of this age:
“be subject to rulers,” “be obedient,” “do whatever is good,” “slander no one,” “be peaceable,”
“be considerate,” “be gentle.”
Paul then reminds them of the alternative way of the world that was “at one time” the way Paul, Titus and all the people of Crete lived. Paul says:
“At one time we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another.” – Titus 3:3
But, no more! Now because of the new birth and the intake of sound doctrine all believers can live in this age in a positive, productive way of truth that is contrary to the foolishness. and disobedience of the pagan world. Believers educated and trained in solid doctrine can produce the fruit of obedience of the eternity in the temporal age today. We can shine like stars in a warped and crooked genertion:
"You may become blameless and pure, “children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation.”Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky as you hold firmly to the word of life." - Philippians 2:15-16
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