Reading: Titus 1:10–16

Paul’s Closing Remarks

In the closing verses of Titus chapter 1 Paul describes the characteristics of false teachers. He has already given the qualifications for a leader in the Church. He now tells us the things to look out for in false teachers to distinguish them from sound teachers. The false teachers were Jewish converts who taught that salvation required circumcision. He indicates this in verse 10 by “those of the circumcision”. Judaizers were those who sought to introduce Jewish teachings and traditions as part of the Gospel and Christian doctrine. The false teachers in the Church at Crete were much like those that Timothy dealt with. The true Church of Jesus Christ has always had to deal with wrong doctrine and false teachers who by their godliness pervert the true Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Dishonest Gain

In verse 11 Paul writes about those of “dishonest gain”. The question I would like us to think about here is this. What were these teachers seeking to gain?

There are false teachers in the Church today. They use the ministry of the Church for their own sake and gain. Some are in it for the money and others for fame and power. They are found in the Church for their own purposes and position.

In verse 12 Paul writes, “Cretans are always liars, evil beasts, lazy gluttons.” He quotes a Cretan poet by the name of Epimenides. In the Mediterranean world the Cretans were considered liars. The term “to Cretanise” meant to lie. Why do you think Paul quotes Epimenides?

In verse 13 Paul gives wisdom in dealing with teachers who bring false doctrine to the people of God. How do we deal with false doctrine in the church and false teachers today?

In verse 14 Paul writes about “Jewish fables”. These are likely to be legends about Old Testament figures some of which are taught today. They were teaching the traditions of men as doctrine. In Matthew 15.9 Jesus said, “BUT IN VAIN DO THEY WORSHIP ME, TEACHING AS DOCTRINES THE PRECEPTS OF MEN.” What are some of the worldly traditions we must look out for in the church today?

Summary

To the believer all sound doctrine is pure, but to those who teach falsehoods nothing is pure. Their conscience and minds are defiled by their lies and desire for self-gain.

Our attention is also drawn to what Paul wrote to the Church at Corinth. “My grace is sufficient for you” (2 Cor. 12.9). The Church is a place where sound doctrine should be taught and embraced.  Pray for the leaders of the Church. They need our prayers and love. No church officer is above error as we all make mistakes.

Have you ever been in a situation that became leaderless and/or chaotic?

What was your greatest concern?