Bible Study

Today we finish reading Paul’s letter to Pastor Titus. Paul’s closing remarks mention four co-workers who, with him, spread the Gospel and minister to churches in various locations. Paul and the others could not perform such ministries without the help of other Christians, so his closing includes instructions for their support. Whether or not we personally work in outreach ministry, we need to support others as they evangelize, teach, and minister in Christ’s name. God, who redeemed us with the precious blood of Jesus and saw to it that we received His dear message, will give us opportunities to serve and support others. What a privilege to serve with our brothers and sisters in Christ in God’s kingdom! • Entrust me, dear Lord, with the opportunity to tell another person of Your redeeming love. Amen.

Various Authors. The Lutheran Study Bible (p. 10558). (Function). Kindle Edition.

Today we read Titus 2. Self-controlled, godly living is beneficial regardless of our age or status in life, and it is important to our family relationships as well as to our witness as a Christian. Our lifestyle, relationships, and behavior must not discredit the Gospel. This sets a very high bar, indeed, and one that we cannot reach without a lot of help. However, God trains us for the present time and gives us hope for the future. He redeems and purifies us to make us His children. • Jesus, adorn my life with works and confession worthy of the Gospel. Amen.

Various Authors. The Lutheran Study Bible (pp. 10554-10555). (Function). Kindle Edition.

Today we begin reading Titus, a letter of Paul’s to a fellow pastor named Titus. Step by step, Paul outlines the requirements for those who wish to lead as stewards of God’s Church. Then he turns his focus to the false teachers, who do not measure up in understanding or teaching the truth, in their corrosive behavior, or in their motives. As living, active members of God’s Church, potential leaders should aspire to know and understand His truth and to serve in the roles He provides. They and their families need to live a godly life that avoids empty talk, deceit, and any teaching that turns away from God’s truth. Purity is a tall order, though, and we cannot make ourselves pure. Yet God steps into our lives and purifies us by His Gospel. Thank God that through Jesus Christ, He makes us pure and leads us through His trustworthy Word! • Jesus, purify me with Your righteousness so that I may lead in my family and serve faithfully among Your people. Amen.

Various Authors. The Lutheran Study Bible (pp. 10550-10551). (Function). Kindle Edition.

Today we read 2 Timothy 4. In closing, Paul asks Timothy to greet the other Christians at Ephesus, whom Paul had earlier grown to love. There is no Christian who lives to himself or herself alone. We are a family, joined together in Christ! Timothy faces a difficult task, but he does not face it alone. Other Christians in the Body of Christ will shoulder the load with him. God has likewise given fellow Christians to us, whom we will find gathered with us in worship. Partaking of the Word and the Sacraments in the communion of saints, our gracious heavenly Father will lighten our loads and lift our burdens. • Thank You, Lord, for my fellow Christians whom I name before You in my prayers. Amen.

Various Authors. The Lutheran Study Bible (p. 10524). (Function). Kindle Edition.