Exposition of Titus Lesson 5 The Order of Sanctification

Exposition of Paul’s Letter to

TITUS

LESSON 5: The Order of Sanctification

Review

As Titus seeks to “put in order” what is necessary in Crete he will need spiritual leaders who model what is required. The emphasis on knowing the Truth and practicing what you preach – the emphasis on embodying the Gospel in life resulting in godliness is the type of leadership required in Crete. The context for this need is that there is an abundance of false and destructive teaching going on, in the Church and this must stop.  Paul then moves to specific matters of conduct within the Church.  Let me outline his approach:

Outline of Titus 2:1 – 3:8

In contrast to the false element in the Church that is described by Paul as “they profess to know God, but they deny him by their works. They are detestable, disobedient, unfit for any good work” (Titus 1:16, ESV), the Apostle relays to Titus the type of living that flows out of belief in the Gospel. Remember, this is the concern of this letter:  right doctrine should lead to right behavior.  Paul does something interesting, he describes the right living by describing activity within certain age, gender of social groupings.

Of note is the method that Paul uses.  It is clearly a New Covenant method.  Commands or imperatives in the New Testament are more than often stated by saying, “Because such and such is true, therefore be this kind of person.”   Technically it is called moving from the indicative (that which is true) to the imperative (that which you do).  Watch how this happens in this section. Paul just reverses this order:

1.      This is what various gender/age groups must do (2:1–10); because

1.1.   This is what is true (the Gospel) (2:11–14); and

1.1.1.      To summarize (2:15)

2.      Here are more instructions to proper living that you must do (3:1–2)

2.1.   This is what is true (Gospel) (3:3–7); and

2.1.1.      Here is the summary (3:8)

Here’s another example of this New Covenant method: “for at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light” (Ephesians 5:8, ESV).  Do you see what is happening?  You are light, ∴ walk as light.   So, we look at Chapter 2.

Text: Titus 2:1–15 (ESV)

¹ But as for you, teach what accords with sound doctrine. ² Older men are to be sober-minded, dignified, self-controlled, sound in faith, in love, and in steadfastness. ³ Older women likewise are to be reverent in behavior, not slanderers or slaves to much wine. They are to teach what is good, ⁴ and so train the young women to love their husbands and children, ⁵ to be self-controlled, pure, working at home, kind, and submissive to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be reviled. ⁶ Likewise, urge the younger men to be self-controlled. ⁷ Show yourself in all respects to be a model of good works, and in your teaching show integrity, dignity, ⁸ and sound speech that cannot be condemned, so that an opponent may be put to shame, having nothing evil to say about us. ⁹ Bondservants are to be submissive to their own masters in everything; they are to be well-pleasing, not argumentative, ¹⁰ not pilfering, but showing all good faith, so that in everything they may adorn the doctrine of God our Savior. ¹¹ For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people, ¹² training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age, ¹³ waiting for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, ¹⁴ who gave himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to purify for himself a people for his own possession who are zealous for good works. ¹⁵ Declare these things; exhort and rebuke with all authority. Let no one disregard you.

Exposition Titus 2:1–15 (ESV)

For teaching purposes I’m going to reverse Paul’s order.

What is True?  (The Gospel Basis for Holy Living) (vv11-14)

All the imperatives that are expected by the Apostle are products of the Gospel – they are the fruit of salvation that comes by God’s grace.  The grace in this case is personified.  He is speaking of Jesus’ first coming.  Not only was Christ the embodiment of grace (“And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.” (John 1:14, ESV), but it was grace that sent Him.  He came for all mankind (“. . . who is the Savior of all people, especially of those who believe.”^[1]) but His saving mercies are owned by only those who believe.

This grace that sent Christ the embodiment of grace also taught.  The Gospel teaches us (negatively) to say no to sin (That’s the first half of repentance.) and (positively) to live a self-controlled life showing freedom from sin (That’s the second half of repentance.); and to live in light of the Second Coming.   Notice that when Paul wrote the Thessalonian church he showed proof positive that they were chosen by God and had believed the Gospel, because they “. . . turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God, and to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, Jesus who delivers us from the wrath to come.” (1 Thessalonians 1:9–10, ESV). 

Secondly, note Paul reminds Titus that the reason Christ came and died was to “. . . to redeem us from all lawlessness and to purify for himself a people for his own possession who are zealous for good works.” (Titus 2:14, ESV). Someone who has believed the Gospel now belongs to Christ who saved us from ungodliness, cleansing us and fitting us for good works. 

So, Paul reminds them what is true: Since you believed the Gospel you have repented of your sin, turning to Christ to live purified and productive lives. So on that basis ….

Here Is What You Are To Do (2:1-10)

A.      If you are an older man (50+) (vv1-2).  They ought to be clear headed, self-controlled, living life with dignity and seriousness that invites honor and respect, living healthy Christian lives. “The overall picture of older men is of Christian dignity and vibrant faith.”^[2]

B.      If you are an older woman (vv3-4a).  The overall picture is of a reverent woman, living similarly to older men.  “The conduct of the older women must reveal that they regard life as sacred in all of its aspects.”[3]  Their lives have a teaching role – “teaching what is good” with a specific role in discipling younger women.

C.      If you are a younger woman (wife and mother) (vv4b-5), your Gospel-living is seen in your love for your husband, children, home, etc. It is also a life of self-control, busy doing what is a priority and holiness. Such a wife shows honor to the Word of God when she lives in submission to her husband.

D.      If you are a young man (v6), then the instruction is short and to the point: live self-controlled lives.

E.       If you are Titus (or perhaps a pastor) (vv7-8). It is possible to read this instruction with the view that Titus is to be the example to the young men.  This might broaden the expectations of the young men to include living a life of good works. Titus should show seriousness in his teaching and practice what he preaches!  His speech must be “sound” or healthy silencing his opponents.

F.       If you are a slave (employee) (vv9-10) then your Gospel living should be seen in obedience and compliance to your employer, not taking what does not belong to you, being trustworthy.   This puts beauty on the Gospel when we live this way.

Paul then restates in conclusion the duty of Titus: “Declare these things; exhort and rebuke with all authority. Let no one disregard you.” (Titus 2:15, ESV)

Conclusion

Paul is convinced that if someone has believed the Gospel; they have looked to Christ and repented; if they have embraced the hope of the Gospel, then their lives will show that evidence.  Paul is convinced that if someone has trusted in a Savior who came to set them free from sin and to live lives of holiness – their lives will show that.  Paul is convinced that if we believe the Gospel, that is, by faith we belong to God in Christ Jesus, we will never be the same – our conduct will change, our homes will change, our church will change and our work will change!

Some Further Resources

Ø  Article: “Imperatives – Indicatives = Death” by Jim MacLellan (https://jamesmaclellan.blogspot.ca/2013/03/i-just-finished-12-commandments-of.html)

  Ø  Article: “Become Who You Are: Indicatives & Imperatives of the Gospel”, by Dr. Peter Cockrell (https://pjcockrell.wordpress.com/2008/08/28/become-who-you-are-indicatives-imperatives/)

  Ø  Sermon on applying the Gospel to sanctification with examples. “A Call to Arms – Part 2” by Jim MacLellan (http://www.elkpointbaptistchurch.com/media/2017-09-24-a-call-to-arms-part-2)

Questions

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^[1] The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. (2016). (1 Ti 4:10). Wheaton: Standard Bible Society.

^[2] Crossway Bibles. (2008). The ESV Study Bible (p. 2349). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles.

[3] Expositor's Bible Commentary, The, Pradis CD-ROM:Titus/Exposition of Titus/III. Concerning the Natural Groups in the Congregations (2:1-15)/A. The Instructions for the Different Groups (2:1-10)/2. The instruction to different age groups (2:2-6), Book Version: 4.0.2

The Sayings of the Wise – Part 23

THIRTY SAYINGS OF THE WISE

SAYING NUMBER TWENTY-TWO

Proverbs 24:7 (ESV) reads:  “Wisdom is too high for a fool; in the gate he does not open his mouth.”

What does the Bible mean when it refers to a place called “the gate”?  Well, in Genesis 19:1 the gate was the place where men discussed business or political issues. In Deuteronomy 21:18-21 it was a place where civil law was practiced. Even in Ruth 4 we learn that’s where property rights were upheld. The point of the Proverb seems to acknowledge “the incompetence of fools to speak in the gate where public policy is formulated.”^[1]  “If guidance and counsel help one win a battle [as noted previously], the fool has none to give at the gate, where public decisions and judgments are made.”^[2]

Wisdom is unattainable for a fool, so says the Sage. What is a “fool”?   Notice a few passages that “fool” is mentioned in Proverbs:

·         “The wise lay up knowledge, but the mouth of a fool brings ruin near.” (Proverbs 10:14, ESV)

·         “The one who conceals hatred has lying lips, and whoever utters slander is a fool.” (Proverbs 10:18, ESV)

·         “Doing wrong is like a joke to a fool, but wisdom is pleasure to a man of understanding.” (Proverbs 10:23, ESV)

·         “The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man listens to advice.” (Proverbs 12:15, ESV)

·         “Every prudent man acts with knowledge, but a fool flaunts his folly.” (Proverbs 13:16, ESV)

·         “One who is wise is cautious and turns away from evil, but a fool is reckless and careless.” (Proverbs 14:16, ESV)

“Often in Scripture, a fool is associated with wickedness and a direct denial of God (e.g., in Psalm 53:1). Because God has infinite wisdom, the person who neglects God will naturally miss out on wisdom—he will become a fool. A fool is anyone who does not follow the warnings and commands of God. A fool lacks wisdom, has no concern for others, does not desire to avoid sin, and brags about his sinful actions.”[3]

“The point here is that he is at a loss when a situation calls for serious analysis.”^[4]  The Bible makes a direct correlation between the ungodly, the moral corrupt and their ability to be trusted in their choices.  The prerequisite to wise counsel and direction is moral aptitude than can only come from honor and respect for God.  “The verse portrays a fool out of his element: in a serious moment in the gathering of the community, he does not even open his mouth.”[5]  In most cases that would be a blessing.  Unfortunately, too often, fools don’t understand that they are out of the league and they seek to contribute wisdom that in the final analysis is “fool’s gold”. 

The primary assertion of proverbial literature is “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction.” (Proverbs 1:7, ESV) To seek counsel and direction in civic affairs and human justice from those who deny God and live in rebellion to His will, is to invite the worst of advice or at least no advice at all.  Likewise those who seek guidance in relational, therapeutic or personal matters are faced with the same concern.

Psalm 1:1 (ESV) , “Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers.”

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^[1] Waltke, B. K. (2005). The Book of Proverbs, Chapters 15–31 (p. 273). Grand Rapids, MI: Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co.

^[2] Koptak, P. E. (2003). Proverbs (p. 562). Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan.

[3] https://www.gotquestions.org/fool-Proverbs.html

^[4] Crossway Bibles. (2008). The ESV Study Bible (p. 1176). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles.

[5] Expositor's Bible Commentary, The, Pradis CD-ROM:Proverbs/Exposition of Proverbs/IV. The Sayings of the Wise (22:17-24:34)/A. Thirty Precepts of the Sages (22:17-24:22), Book Version: 4.0.2

Exposition of Titus Lesson 4 Seeing The Disorder

Exposition of Paul’s Letter to

TITUS

LESSON 4: SEEING THE DISORDER

Review

As Titus seeks to “put in order” what is necessary in Crete he will need spiritual leaders who model what is required. The emphasis on knowing the Truth and practicing what you preach – the emphasis on embodying the Gospel in life resulting in godliness is the type of leadership required in Crete.

Why?  Paul now introduces us to the conditions that need this correction:

Text Titus 1:10-16 (ESV)

¹⁰ For there are many who are insubordinate, empty talkers and deceivers, especially those of the circumcision party. ¹¹ They must be silenced, since they are upsetting whole families by teaching for shameful gain what they ought not to teach. ¹² One of the Cretans, a prophet of their own, said, “Cretans are always liars, evil beasts, lazy gluttons.” ¹³ This testimony is true. Therefore rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith, ¹⁴ not devoting themselves to Jewish myths and the commands of people who turn away from the truth. ¹⁵ To the pure, all things are pure, but to the defiled and unbelieving, nothing is pure; but both their minds and their consciences are defiled. ¹⁶ They profess to know God, but they deny him by their works. They are detestable, disobedient, unfit for any good work.

Exposition Titus 1:10-16 (ESV)

Who Are These People?

This section starts with the word “for” which gives us the reason why Titus is to appoint elders – and appoint elders with the character and qualities that Paul has necessitated.  There are a group of people that are “teaching what they ought not to teach” (v.11).  This is a group that comes from within the Church (v10 & possibility v16).  They had a “Jewish” element to their instruction (v10 & v14).

Note:    1. There were “many”.

                2. They were “insubordinate” (Gr: ἀνυπότακτοι, meaning unruly, rebellious or disobedient).

                3. They are “empty talkers” whose speech lacks any importance. 

                4. They are “deceivers”.

What Are They Doing?

Paul’s use of the term “circumcision” to refer to this group makes us think at what might be at the heart of their aberrant teaching, e.g., some sort of Judaistic, religious, works added faith.  “To the pure, all things are pure, but to the defiled and unbelieving, nothing is pure; but both their minds and their consciences are defiled.” (Titus 1:15, ESV).   This is a fascinating verse. Paul is referring to the Jewish legalists who were extremists about Old Testament Jewish ceremonies.  “For Paul, believers are considered pure solely on the basis of their faith. As a result, all things are clean and permissible for them.”^[1]  Material things receive their moral character from the inner attitude of the user; not vice versa.

The issue of the myths is unknown except that they must have been fanciful fiction that had been added to the text of Scripture rather than drawn from it.   One might call it “speculation”.  “These myths seemingly were speculative and fanciful inventions drawn from the OT records such as are found in the apocryphal and pseudepigraphical writings of Judaism.”[2]  False teachers always either misuse the Bible (as taking verses out of context) or add to it (some rule or religious duty done for merit) or take away from it (like denying the sufficiency of Christ).  When the meaning of the Bible, exegetically exposed is replaced with some insatiable desire to find a “deeper meaning” you can literally make the Bible say whatever you want.

Their practices were incredibly disconcerting.  For we note: “They must be silenced, since they are upsetting whole families by teaching for shameful gain what they ought not to teach.” (Titus 1:11, ESV). There is not only a disturbing, disrupting affect on families, it is devious.  There is a selfish motive to their behavior and teaching. 

What Was Their Lifestyle Like?

They lived as Cretans lived: evil, lazy liars (v12).  Just like sodomy refers to the well-known sin of the city of Sodom; and “to Corinthianize” became known for rampant sexual immorality, so to be “Cretan” was to be a compulsive liar.   Paul accuses these teachers in the church with the same accusation as the immediate culture.

There is, however, an ultimate condemnation.  “They profess to know God, but they deny him by their works. They are detestable, disobedient, unfit for any good work.” (Titus 1:16, ESV).  Here we are faced with this theme that runs through the letter.  These false teachers “profess to know God” but their lives prove that they do not know God at all.  They are hypocrites. “Profession and performance should not contradict. Faith and works go together. True faith produces true works.”^[3]

“They are detestable, disobedient, unfit for any good work.”^[4]

What Is Titus To Do? 

1.       “They must be silenced” (v11).

2.       “Rebuke them sharply” (v13).

One of the responsibilities of eldership is to “refute” those who oppose sound doctrine.  They must also prevent false teaching from gaining an audience in the Church.

Conclusion

Like Ephesus (1 Timothy) and Galatia (Galatians) it seems that some in the church in Crete were trying to enforce Jewish ceremonial laws (circumcision, food issues, etc.) to be acceptable to God – to be saved.  It also seems that the same group were engaging in useless controversy, obsessing over Jewish myths, and causing dissension.  But more than that these people were proving the falsehood of their beliefs by their actions; they were acting against God’s purposes rather than in harmony with God’s purposes.

“The works of the false teachers prove that they are unbelievers, despite their claim to know God. Paul is not the least bit hesitant to make such a judgment.”^[5]

The New Testament teaches that behavior that is inconsistent with a changed life suggests that one’s faith in Christ dubious:

Matthew 7:16–20 (ESV)

                      ¹⁶ You will recognize them by their fruits. Are grapes gathered from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? ¹⁷ So, every healthy tree bears good fruit, but the diseased tree bears bad fruit. ¹⁸ A healthy tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a diseased tree bear good fruit. ¹⁹ Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. ²⁰ Thus you will recognize them by their fruits.

James 2:14–16 (ESV)

                      ¹⁴ What good is it, my brothers, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can that faith save him? ¹⁵ If a brother or sister is poorly clothed and lacking in daily food, ¹⁶ and one of you says to them, “Go in peace, be warmed and filled,” without giving them the things needed for the body, what good is that?

Questions

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^[1] Barry, J. D., Mangum, D., Brown, D. R., Heiser, M. S., Custis, M., Ritzema, E., … Bomar, D. (2012, 2016). Faithlife Study Bible (Tt 1:15). Bellingham, WA: Lexham Press.

[2] Expositor's Bible Commentary, The, Pradis CD-ROM:Titus/Exposition of Titus/II. Concerning Elders and Errorists in Crete (1:5-16)/B. The Refutation of False Teachers (1:10-16)/2. The response to the situation (1:13b-14), Book Version: 4.0.2

^[3] Hindson, E. E., & Kroll, W. M. (Eds.). (1994). KJV Bible Commentary (p. 2521). Nashville: Thomas Nelson.

^[4] The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. (2016). (Tt 1:16). Wheaton: Standard Bible Society.

^[5] Crossway Bibles. (2008). The ESV Study Bible (p. 2349). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles.

Exposition of Titus Lesson 3 - Setting Things in Order

Exposition of Paul’s Letter to

TITUS

LESSON 3: SETTING THINGS IN ORDER

Review

Paul’s concern as he writes this letter to Titus, is the issue of integrity. Is what you say you believe the same as the way you live?  The reason why this is important (beside the obvious) is that the Gospel that Paul believed and preached is the only Gospel that promotes godly living and leads to eternal life.  For one to say that they believe the Gospel and exhibit no concern for holiness is a major disconnect.  And a gospel that does not transform our lifestyles is not a Gospel that leads to eternal life.

Paul now continues his communication to Titus:

Text Titus 1:5–9 (ESV)

⁵ This is why I left you in Crete, so that you might put what remained into order, and appoint elders in every town as I directed you— ⁶ if anyone is above reproach, the husband of one wife, and his children are believers and not open to the charge of debauchery or insubordination. ⁷ For an overseer, as God’s steward, must be above reproach. He must not be arrogant or quick-tempered or a drunkard or violent or greedy for gain, ⁸ but hospitable, a lover of good, self-controlled, upright, holy, and disciplined. ⁹ 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.

Exposition Titus 1:5-9 (ESV)

The Mission Reminder

“This is why I left you in Crete.”^[1]  This phrase affirms their joint efforts, previously unknown in Crete.  We have no record of Paul’s ministry in Crete, and any suggestions are assumptions.  The fact that he and Titus were together is simply affirmed by this phrase.  The tone of this verse implies a lot more than we might imagine.  Suppose two women are shopping and we might see one of them and ask the whereabouts of the other.  The answer is, “I left her at the mall”.  That is not what Paul is saying here.  The context demands us to understand that he “left” (Greek: ἀπολείπω [pronounced ap·ol·ipe·o]) implies that is was a deliberate action for a specific purpose.  Titus was told this by Paul, now he receives it in writing.

Titus’ Two-Fold Purpose

There are either 2 purposes, or in some way they fold into one over-arching purpose.  Notice the two-fold statement:

1.       “so that you might put what remained into order, and

2.       appoint elders in every town as I directed you.”^[2]

The first of the purposes is literally, “straighten out” what was not straight!  The Greek word, ἐπιδιορθόω [pronounced, ep·ee·dee·or·tho·o] builds on an English word we know as ortho. An orthodontist - straightens crooked teeth or orthopedist who sets broken bones. Eπιδιορθόω conveys the idea that Paul and Titus had begun the work  but there were still things that were out of place, missing, or defective. He was charged with the task of correcting and setting straight certain doctrines (e.g., Titus 1:10-14 and 2:1) and practices (e.g., Titus 1:12, 16; 3:9) that had become defective. 

The second of the purposes has to do with the appointment of elders.  “An initial duty was to "appoint elders in every town," in each place where there was a group of believers.”[3]  An elder is a general term referring to those who are also called “overseers” in 1Timothy 3:1. The titles elder, pastor, and overseer all describe the same person is made clear by the use of all three words to describe the same men in Acts 20:17, 28.

This contributes to our understanding that during the early Church and onward in history there was a transition from the apostolic leadership of the Church to one of elders.  Notice how we see that in 1 Peter: “Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ . . . “So I exhort the elders among you, as a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, as well as a partaker in the glory that is going to be revealed:” (1 Peter 1:1a; 5:1, ESV)

The Qualifications of the Elders

Verses 6-9 identify those who are qualified to fill this task. Paul writes, “if anyone is above reproach, the husband of one wife, and his children are believers and not open to the charge of debauchery or insubordination. For an overseer, as God’s steward, must be above reproach. He must not be arrogant or quick-tempered or a drunkard or violent or greedy for gain, but hospitable, a lover of good, self-controlled, upright, holy, and disciplined. 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.” (Titus 1:6–9, ESV).

Life Application Bible Commentary has an excellent summary statement on elder qualifications:

"Notice that most of the qualifications involve character, not knowledge or skill. A person’s life-style and relationships provide a window into his or her character . . . It is important to have leaders who can effectively preach God’s Word; but even more importantly, they must live out God’s Word and be examples for others to follow."

Let’s look at each of these character/lifestyle qualities, briefly under 3 categories:

#1.   The Elder’s Family Life

“if anyone is above reproach, the husband of one wife, and his children are believers and not open to the charge of debauchery or insubordination.

To be “above reproach” or “blameless” does not mean sinless. Psalm 32 helps us understand this idea when we read, “Blessed is the one whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered. Blessed is the man against whom the Lord counts no iniquity, and in whose spirit there is no deceit.” (Psalm 32:1–2, ESV). Blamelessness involves honest admittance of sin and the applied forgiveness of God, in Christ.  Above reproach implies responsibility.  The Elder takes responsibility.  In this case Paul is firstly concerned about family.

      1.       Faithful to their wife.   Some take the phrase “the husband of one wife” to forbid polygamy. Some take it to mean as never ever having but one wife, that is, not widowed/divorced and re-married.  Some take it to mean that he must be married.  “The phrase literally states, ‘of one woman [wife] man [husband].’ (1) Many commentators understand the phrase to mean “having the character of a one-woman man,” that is, “faithful to his wife.” In support of this view is the fact that a similar phrase is used in 1 Tim. 5:9 as a qualification for widows (Gk. henos andros gynē; “one-man woman,” i.e., “wife of one husband”), and in that verse, it seems to refer to the trait of faithfulness.”^[4]

      2.       Faithful to their children. Some interpret the phrase “children are believers” to mean just that.  An elder’s children should, at least, profess belief in Christ.  The word for 'children' constrains us to think of those presently under the responsibility and authority of the elder. This I think is the preferred interpretation.

The Greek word πιστά does mean believe.  It can also mean trustworthy or faithful.  Those who interpret the word “faithful” as does the NKJV, argue that no parent can know for sure (at a young age) whether a child is a believer; and no father can guarantee the conversion of their child.  If we follow the maxim that Scripture should interpret Scripture we find in Paul’s letter to Timothy a parallel verse: “keeping his children submissive.”^[5]  It seems that in context, Paul is concerned about a father who might allow his children (those still under his care and authority) to be open to the charge of debauchery and insubordination, that is “wild and rebellious” (as per NLT).

This is a highly controversial statement and argued at great length. There are good and godly theologians who would disagree. 

#2.   The Elder’s Character

For an overseer, as God’s steward, must be above reproach. He must not be arrogant or quick-tempered or a drunkard or violent or greedy for gain, but hospitable, a lover of good, self-controlled, upright, holy, and disciplined.

For the sake of time, I won’t elaborate greatly on these.  Paul repeats himself in the next category of areas, that an elder should be free from accusation.   These all follow issues of character and personality.  He is (negatively)[6]:

      a.       Not to be "overbearing," arrogantly disregarding the interests of others to please himself;

      b.      Not to be "quick-tempered," readily yielding to anger, for pastoral work demands much patience;

      c.       Not "given to wine"; he must not be an alcoholic.  Some contemporize this by suggesting that the elder should not be one who seeks to escape his problems with drugs or alcohol, etc.;

      d.      Not "violent,"; and

      e.      Not "pursuing dishonest gain." He must not turn his office into a money-making business.

But positively he is to be a person who⁶:

      a.       Is "hospitable," literally, "lover of strangers," ready to open his home to others.

      b.      Is "one who loves what is good," an ally and zealous supporter of the good, including men as well as deeds and things;

      c.       Is "self-controlled," in control of his mind and emotions so that he can act rationally and discreetly;

      d.      Is "holy" seeking to pursue Christ-likeness and practical righteousness; and

      e.      Is "disciplined," in his time and habits.

#3.   The Elder’s Relationship to the 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.” (Titus 1:6–9, ESV)

Lastly Paul writes of the Elder’s ability to handle spiritual truth. Doctrinal precision is critically important for an elder. “The overseer must be known to "hold firmly to the trustworthy message," clinging to it despite the winds of false teaching and open opposition.”[7]

An elder should be able to communicate Truth.  Practically speaking he may be a leading elder rather than teaching elder[8].  But in either case he is distinguished by this ability to teach truth – and alongside of that refute error.

Conclusion

 Paul does not demand perfection from the Church Elders.  He does demand family, moral and biblical responsibility.  Where there is failure or weakness it behoves the elder to do what is necessary to remove himself from accusation.  Paul instructed the Ephesian elders of one way they are to do that.  Note:

“Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to care for the church of God, which he obtained with his own blood.” (Acts 20:28, ESV, Emphasis mine)

“Spiritual leaders need first of all to guard their own spiritual and moral purity.”^[9]  As Titus seeks to “put in order” what is necessary in Crete he will need spiritual leaders who model what is required. The emphasis on knowing the Truth and practicing what you preach – the emphasis on embodying the Gospel in life resulting in godliness is the type of leadership required in Crete.  It is the type of spiritual leadership needed everywhere.

Questions

PS: I have attempted to write a more comprehensive explanation of the call, the role, and constitution of elders.  It is posted online at http://elkpointbaptistchurch.blogspot.ca/2008/02/gods-blueprint-for-his-church-guardians.html?m=0.

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^[1] The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. (2016). (Tt 1:5). Wheaton: Standard Bible Society.

^[2] The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. (2016). (Tt 1:5). Wheaton: Standard Bible Society.

[3] Expositor's Bible Commentary, The, Pradis CD-ROM:Titus/Exposition of Titus/II. Concerning Elders and Errorists in Crete (1:5-16)/A. The Appointment of Qualified Elders (1:5-9)/1. The duties of Titus in Crete (1:5), Book Version: 4.0.2

^[4] Crossway Bibles. (2008). The ESV Study Bible (p. 2329). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles.

^[5] The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. (2016). (1 Ti 3:4–5). Wheaton: Standard Bible Society.

[6] Adapted from Expositor's Bible Commentary, The, Pradis CD-ROM:Titus/Exposition of Titus/II. Concerning Elders and Errorists in Crete (1:5-16)/A. The Appointment of Qualified Elders (1:5-9)/2. The qualifications of the elders (1:6-9), Book Version: 4.0.2

[7] Expositor's Bible Commentary, The, Pradis CD-ROM:Titus/Exposition of Titus/II. Concerning Elders and Errorists in Crete (1:5-16)/A. The Appointment of Qualified Elders (1:5-9)/2. The qualifications of the elders (1:6-9), Book Version: 4.0.2

[8] “Let the elders who rule well be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in preaching and teaching.” (1 Timothy 5:17, ESV)

^[9] Crossway Bibles. (2008). The ESV Study Bible (p. 2130). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles.