Daily Guide 19th December 2023 | Scripture Union Devotional
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Today’s Topic: Called to share the word of God
Opening Prayer: Dear Lord, I request that you help me to encounter you as I meditate on your word.
SCRIPTURE: Titus 1:1-9
Question(s) for Reflection
• Q 3: Is there any command for me to obey?
Outline For Scripture Union Daily Guide 19 December 2023
Introduction to Paul’s Letter to Titus
Titus was a Greek by birth and one of the most trusted and best loved members of the little band of Paul’s friends and followers. Since he was brought to the Lord through Paul, the bond between them was quite tender and affectionate. Hence, in his opening remark in chapter 1:4, Paul refers to Titus as, “my own son after the common faith”.
By the time this letter was written, Titus was responsible for over-seeing all the churches on the Island of Crete. These churches were grappling with numerous problems. Paul, therefore, wrote this letter to groom Titus to be a good and responsible leader. The letter is presented in three major categories: leadership (1:1-6), right living in the church (2:1-15) and right living in society (3:1-15).
TODAY’S GUIDE: In the greetings of this letter what was Paul’s emphasis to his spiritual son, Titus (see vs.1-4)? Titus was having a hard time ministering in Crete. He felt like quitting or getting an alternative assignment. Paul counselled him to focus on the privilege and opportunity believers have in sharing the word of God, which leads to eternal life (v.3). What should be our emphasis today in whatever vocation we find ourselves (see 2 Timothy 4:1-5).
Read vs.5-9 and outline the other assignment Paul gave Titus in Crete. In choosing leaders for the church, notice Paul’s emphasis on their character rather than on their knowledge and skill. He also challenged them as shepherds of the flock of God to be blameless in three areas: in their home (v.6); in their personal life (vs.7-8); and in their understanding and teaching of the Word of God (v.9). The greatest need of the church may not be money, materials, or equipment but disciplined leaders of integrity who will ensure that God`s word is given the prime place in the life of the church (see Psalm 112:1; 2 Timothy 3:16-17).
• Any new insight or reinforcement of what you already know?
Closing Prayer
Ask God to raise leaders of integrity who will encourage obedience of the word of God in our Churches and nations.
Offer a prayer of faith in line with Philippians 4:7
One Year Bible Reading Plan
3 John, Psalms 141, 142.
NATIONAL PRAYER BULLETIN FOR 19TH DECEMBER 2023
PRAYER FOCUS: PERSONAL COMMITMENT TO CHRIST
“Who now rejoice in my sufferings for you, and fill up that which is behind of the afflictions of Christ in my flesh for His body’s sake, which is the Church” Col. 1:24
THANK GOD FOR:
► For the privilege we have, to identify with Christ.
PRAY FOR:
►God will grant us fresh awakening to the sufferings of Christ
►This awakening will produce in us a resolution to count all things as dung, that we may pursue ‘making’ Christ known to all those who still dwell in darkness.
►We might receive grace to build faith in our hearts. By this faith we receive all our needs met, and stop running after meeting needs, to the neglect of the purpose why Christ died.
