WEDNESDAY BIBLE STUDY/TITUS~Chapter 1

Today we start our Bible Study with the Book of Titus.

*Titus, a young pastor, faces the unenviable assignment of setting in order the church at Crete. **Apostle Paul writes, advising him to appoint elders - men of proven spiritual character (reflecting the qualities of God, with emphasis on the Holy Spirit's work in transforming believers into the likeness of Christ) in their homes & businesses, to oversee the work of the ***Church. But elders are not the only individuals in the Church who are required (obligation, necessity, or demand is placed upon) to excel (to be superior in some quality, attainment; to be exceptionally good at it) spiritually. Men & women, young & old, each have their vital functions (ensure the Body of Believers can maintain a stable internal environment and carry out basic activities) to fulfil in the Church if they are to be living examples of the doctrines (primarily refers to the teachings or instructions found within Scripture) they profess (making a public statement about). Throughout his letter to Titus, Paul stresses the necessary, practical working out of salvation in the daily lives of both the elders & the congregation (an assembly or gathering of people). Good works (actions that align with Yeshua's Will, flow from a transformed heart, and are intended to glorify Elohim and benefit others = good works are the result of salvation, not the cause; include acts of service, compassion, kindness, prayer, and sharing the gospel) are desirable & profitable for all ****Believers.

Titus is not mentioned in the book of Acts, but the thirteen references to him in the Pauline Epistles make it clear that he was one of Paul's closest and most trusted companions. This convert (to change from one belief, or understanding) of Paul ("my true son of our common Faith," v.1:4) was probably from Syrian Antioch, if he was one of the disciples of Acts 11:26. Paul brought this uncircumcised Greek Believer to Jerusalem (Galatians 2:3) where he became a true test on the matter of #Gentiles & liberty from (freedom from various forms of bondage, particularly spiritual bondage) ^The Law. Years later, when Paul set out from Antioch on his 3rd missionary journey (focused on evangelism, establishing churches, and nurturing existing Christian communities) (Acts 18:22), Titus must have accompanied (to go with) him, because he was sent by the apostle to Corinth  on 3 occasions during that time (2 Corinthians 2:12 & 13; 7:5 thru 7, 13 thru 15; 8:6 & 16 thru 24). He is not mentioned again until Paul leaves him in Crete to carry on the work (Titus 1:5). He was with Paul during his 2nd imprisonment, but left to go to Dalmatia (2 Timothy 4:10) - possibly on an evangelistic mission (the act of spreading the Christian Gospel with the aim of converting individuals to Christianity = proclamation of salvation through Yeshua Ha'Mashiach: Matthew 28:19-20). Paul spoke of this reliable (trusted to work hard and do what they say they will do) & gifted associate (partner) as his "brother" (2 Corinthians 2:13), his "partner and fellow worker" (2 Corinthians 8:23), & his "son" (v. 1:4). He lauded (praised; admired) Titus's character (someone's personality) & conduct (personal behavior) in 2 Corinthians 7:13 thru 15 and 8:16 & 17.

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Wednesday Bible Study/TITUS~Chapter 1

Introduction

(vv. 1 thru 4 )

"Paul, a servant (a person working in the service of another) of *****Elohim and an ##apostle of ******Yeshua Ha'Mashiach, according to ^^The Faith of Elohim's ###elect and the acknowledgment (recognizing or admitting the existence) of the truth which is according to godliness (empowering believers to develop the fruits of the Spirit, such as love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control = Galatians 5:22-23; a life characterized by honesty, purity, and righteousness in both thoughts and actions; includes finding contentment in Elohim's provision and trusting in His sufficiency, rather than seeking fulfillment in material possessions or worldly pursuits = 1 Timothy 6:6), in hope of eternal life which Elohim, Who cannot lie, promised before time began, but has in due time manifested (at the right time made clear; appointed; scheduled) His Word through preaching (to make  known), which was committed to me according to the commandment of Yeshua our Savior; To Titus, my true son in our common Faith (2 Corinthians 2:13 & 8:23): grace (Elohim's favor and goodwill extended), mercy (favor; compassion), and peace (harmony; wholeness in all of life) from Elohim the Father & the Lord Yeshua Ha'Mashiach our Savior.

Ordain Qualified Elders

(vv. 5 thru 9)

For this reason I left you in Crete, that you should set in order (arrangements made in a logical and efficient manner, to optimize for improved accessibility, safety, and workflow) the things that are lacking (being without; not having; wanting; less), and appoint (to name or assign to a position, an office) ####elders in every city as I commanded you (1 Corinthians 11:34) - if a man is blameless (living a life of integrity, free from blame or accusation, particularly in one's relationship with God and others; a life of faithfulness, obedience, and moral uprightness, especially in the context of Elohim's covenant), the husband of 1 wife, having faithful (children who are obedient to their parents, not rebellious or unruly; submissive, and well-behaved, demonstrating loyalty and fulfilling their obligations) children not accused (to charge with a fault or offense) of dissipation (translated from the Greek word asōtía = primarily refers to a lifestyle characterized by excessive indulgence in sensual pleasures, wastefulness, and a lack of self-control, leading to moral and spiritual decay; associated with a reckless, self-centered way of living that prioritizes worldly desires over spiritual growth) or insubordination (using disrespectful language towards the manager, disobeying or refusing to do the supervisor's direct orders, humiliatingly challenging the manager's authority in public, sabotaging work or projects, and inciting rebellion or violence; willful intent to defy an order, or a command). For a #####bishop must be blameless, as a steward (wisely recognizing that managing time, talents, and possessions, as belonging to Elohim -  and responsibly using that knowledge for the benefit of others) of Elohim … not self-willed, not quick-tempered, not given to wine (Leviticus 10:9), not violent, not greedy for money; but hospitable (the practice of showing love and kindness; often involving opening one's home and sharing resources with traveling evangelists, or missionaries), a lover of what is good (a person who delights in and actively pursues what is morally right and pleasing to Elohim; a lover of good desires what Elohim desires, and finds joy in living according to His commandments), sober-minded (a sober mind is one that is not clouded by excessive emotions, worldly distractions, or sinful desires. It's about thinking clearly, making wise decisions, and acting with self-control; being watchful and alert to spiritual dangers and all worldly temptations), just (acting in accordance with what is morally right; adhering to divine law and principles of righteousness), holy (set apart for God's purpose and characterized by moral purity; being consecrated, sacred, and distinct from the ordinary or profane), self-controlled (the ability to regulate one's thoughts, actions, and desires, especially in the face of temptation; a virtue and a fruit of the Ruach HaKo'desh, meaning it's cultivated through the Holy Spirit's work in a Believer's life = self-control involves saying "no" to sinful impulses and "yes" to Elohim's Will, leading to a life of righteousness and spiritual maturity), holding fast (to cling to, grasp firmly, or maintain a strong grip on something; remaining loyal to one's beliefs and not wavering in one's commitment) the faithful Word as he has been taught - that he may be able, by sound doctrine (Scriptural teaching that is biblically accurate, reliable, and leads to a healthy spiritual life; teaching that is rooted in the truth of Elohim's Word, and promotes a right understanding of His character, His plan of salvation, and how believers should live in accordance with His Will), both to exhort (the term is closely tied to the Greek word parakaleo, which can also mean to comfort, console; to strongly encourage, urge, or plead with someone to do something; also involves giving advice, counsel, or even a mild rebuke to guide someone away from harmful behaviors) & convict ( the act of bringing something to light, particularly sin or error = conviction is not meant to condemn or shame, but to lead to repentance and reconciliation with Elohim) those who contradict (to go against or say the opposite of what someone else is doing or saying; a play on words to confuse and lead away from).

Rebuke False Teachers

(vv. 10 thru 16)

For there are many insubordinate (disobedience and defiance of legitimate authority, particularly God's authority and the authorities He has established) - both idle talkers (careless, or useless speech that lacks substance and can be harmful = various forms of unproductive conversation, including gossip, foolish talk, and discussions that do not edify or build up others) & deceivers (those who mislead others from the truth about Christ); especially those of the circumcision (orthodox Jews; those who refuse to legitimize the New Covenant Gospels), whose mouths must be stopped, who subvert (the act of corrupting something, like morals, faith, or the truth of the gospel = tied to false teachings or the introduction of harmful doctrines) whole households, teaching things which they ought not (meaning should not, or must not), for the sake of dishonest gain (1 Timothy 6:5)). One of them, a prophet of their own, said, "Cretans are always liars (someone who doesn't tell the truth = a person who knowingly utters falsehood), evil beasts (lack of discipline and moral restraint = to behave as prowling animals), lazy gluttons (making one's belly their god, indicating a prioritization of physical desires over spiritual needs; a failure to contribute to one's family, community, or spiritual life)" (Acts 17:28). This testimony (a spoken statement of what has taken place) is true - therefore rebuke (addressing wrong actions or attitudes with love and concern for their spiritual well-being, aiming for repentance and restoration; a correction, and guidance back to the right path) them sharply (a quick rebuttal; distinct, clear, or detailed), that they may be sound (Scripturally accurate, consistent with core Christian beliefs, and promoting spiritual health) in the Faith (2 Corinthians 13:10)), not giving heed (not paying attention to = disregarding, or refusing to listen to) to Jewish fables (sometimes called myths or "old wives' tales," were often associated with speculative rabbinical interpretations of scripture) & commandments of men (human-made rules and traditions that are elevated to the status of divine law; often contradicting or overshadowing God's true commandments = these can be practices, teachings, or interpretations that deviate from or replace Elohim's revealed Will: they are often characterized by emphasis on outward observance "to save" over genuine faith in Elohim's arm of salvation) who turn from the ^^^Truth (Isaiah 29:13). To the pure (described as single-minded devotion to God, free from ulterior motives or divided loyalties), all things are pure; but to those who are defiled & unbelieving, nothing is pure; even their mind (represented by the Greek word nous = is not merely a synonym for thoughts, but rather encompasses the entire mental and moral state of being = thinking, perception, judgment, and will) & conscience (an internal capacity for moral judgment, a "witness" within individuals that distinguishes right from wrong. It's not a separate entity, but rather a function of the mind that reflects upon actions and motives = guiding behavior) are defiled (defilement from the heart, through evil thoughts, words, and actions; moral and spiritual transgressions, like idolatry, sexual immorality, and injustice, were also seen as defiling acts; can lead to a loss of fellowship with Elohim, hinder spiritual growth, and result in consequences like Elohim's judgment (Mark 7:15 thru 23 & 1 Corinthians 6:12)). They profess (to openly declare or acknowledge one's faith, beliefs, or allegiance) to know Elohim, but in works (actions, deeds, or activities) they deny (actions that reject God's commandments or authority) him, being abominable (wicked actions or things that are deemed deeply offensive to Elohim's holiness and Law), disobedient (can manifest as failing to do what is commanded or doing what is forbidden = often described as rebellion, insubordination, and a rejection of God's sovereignty), & disqualified (being deemed unfit or unworthy for a specific task, role, or reward, particularly within a spiritual or moral context; implies failing to meet the necessary standards due to unfaithfulness, disobedience, or a lack of integrity) for every good work."

*Titus: A Greek who was converted to Christianity by Paul, Titus became one of Apostle Paul's most trusted & able assistants. Although Paul earlier had insisted that Timothy be circumcised, he refused to allow Titus to be circumcised in order to demonstrate once and for all to the Judaizers (Jewish Christians who believed that Gentile converts to Christianity needed to adhere to Jewish laws and customs) undermining Paul's work, that it is by faith in Christ that we are saved - not by outward works. Paul presented Titus as living proof of this doctrine at the Jerusalem Council. Titus continued to serve as Paul's preaching companion & trouble-shooter (someone skilled at identifying and resolving problems in operational contexts, and diplomatic situations = troubleshooters analyze issues, diagnose root causes, and implement solutions to restore normal function or resolve disputes). He was particularly useful in sorting out problems in the churches at Corinth after Timothy had failed; also at Ephesus, & later at Crete. The last mention of him in the New Covenant (the New Testament) was 2 Timothy 4:10. The early church fathers, and others, link Titus closely with Crete - where he supposedly lived, and died, having served as bishop. 2 Corinthians 2:13, 7:6, 13, 14, 8:6, 16, & 23; 12:18; Galatians 2:1 & 3; 2 Timothy 4:10; & Titus 1:4

**Apostle Paul: known as Saul before he converted to Christianity (Acts 9), was the chief killer of Christians following Yeshua’s death, resurrection, and ascension – being the foremost witness to the stoning of Stephen (Acts 7).

The Apostle Paul was one of the most influential leaders of the early Christian Church. He played a crucial role in spreading the gospel to the Gentiles (non-Jews) during the first century, and his missionary journeys took him all throughout the Roman empire.

***Church = The Greek word ekklesia is the root of the English word "church." It combines the words ek (out) and kaleo (to call), literally meaning "the called out ones". This highlights the idea of a group of people set apart or chosen. In the New Testament, ekklesia, in its most literal and basic sense, refers to an assembly or gathering of people, specifically a group of Christians. The Greek word from which it's derived, ekklesia, also means "called-out ones". While often associated with a building for worship, the term's core meaning is about the people themselves and their collective presence.

****Christians: Early Jewish Believers in Yeshua, referred to themselves as being of 'The Way' (Koinē Greek: τῆς ὁδοῦ, romanized: tês hodoû), an expression possibly coming from Isaiah 40:3, "prepare the way of the Lord". According to Acts 11:26, the term "Christian" (Χρῑστῐᾱνός, Khrīstiānós), meaning "followers of Christ" and referring to Yeshua's disciples, was first used in the city of Antioch by the Gentiles there. The earliest recorded use of the term "Christianity/Christianism" (Χρῑστῐᾱνισμός, Khrīstiānismós) was by Ignatius of Antioch around 100 AD. The name Jesus comes from Ancient Greek: Ἰησοῦς Iēsous, probably from Hebrew/Aramaic: יֵשׁוּעַ Yēshūa.

*****Elohim (Hebrew: אֱלֹהִים, romanized: ʾּlōhīm: (eloˈ(h)im) is a Hebrew word meaning "Gods – Father, Son, & Holy Spirit". Although the word is plural in form, in the Hebrew Bible it usually refers to a single deity “Behold, the Lord – the Lord is One”, particularly the God of Israel.

******Yeshua Ha’Mashiach: is Hebrew for “Jesus the Messiah”; the name Jesus is the Greek form of the Hebrew name Yeshua.

Christ (from the Hebrew word, Ha’Mashiach ישוע המשיח & the Greek word, Christos/khris-tos) = The Anointed, Yeshua the Messiah, in both languages.

Lord = Jesus Christ (in Greek: Kyrios Iēsous Christos) = the most formal title for Jesus (Yeshua). It occurs often in the New Testament letters.

The word “Lord” has a wide range of uses; it can be a simple respectful “Sir” or a more formal, “Master.” But the New Testament also uses “Lord” of God. The word “Christ” is the anglicized form of the Greek word meaning “anointed one” or “Messiah.” “Lord Jesus Christ” reminds us that Jesus is both the promised Messiah and our God.

#Gentiles = refers to individuals who are not Jewish, meaning they are not descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob (Israel). The term is a translation of the Hebrew word "goy" (plural "goyim") or the Greek word "ethnos" (plural "ethne"), both of which can also mean "nations" or "peoples". While the term can have broader meanings, in most biblical contexts, it signifies non-Jewish people. 

##Apostle = derived from the Greek word "apostolos", Apostle (/əˈpɒsəl/) in its literal sense, is an emissary. Literally means "one who is sent" or "messenger"; the purpose of such sending off is usually to convey a message, and thus "messenger" is a common alternative translation; other common translations include "ambassador" and "envoy".

Apostle in the Gospels is one of an authoritative New Testament group sent out to preach the gospel and made up especially of Christ's 12 original disciples and Paul.

###Elect = The term "elect" is frequently applied to Christians, signifying those who have accepted Yeshua Ha'Mashiach as Savior, and are called to a life of holiness and service.

The Greek word for "elect," eklektos, means "chosen" or "selected," emphasizing God's initiative in choosing believers. 

The concept of election in the "Brit Chadashah" (a Hebrew term that translates to "New Covenant") refers to the New Testament, and is closely tied to the idea of predestination, with some interpretations suggesting Elohim chooses individuals for salvation before they are even born.

However, other interpretations emphasize that Elohim chooses those who respond to His offer of salvation through faith in His Son, Yeshua Ha'Mashiach. 

####Elders = Elders are called to teach the Word of Truth, ensuring sound doctrine and refuting false teachings. Elders are tasked with leading the Church, making decisions, and setting the direction for the congregation; they are responsible for the spiritual well-being of the Church - providing guidance, encouragement, and discipline.

#####Bishop = derived from the Greek word "episkopos" meaning "overseer"; or superintendent, indicating someone who has responsibility for the well-being and proper functioning of a group, including: ensuring the spiritual health and well-being of the congregation, providing instruction in public and private settings, visiting the sick and providing other forms of care and support, & welcoming strangers and providing for their needs. 

^The Mosaic Law = In the Bible, "law" encompasses various meanings, primarily referring to God's instructions and commandments. These can be broadly categorized into moral, ceremonial, and civil laws. 

Paul recognized the Mosaic Law's value as a guide for moral conduct and a reflection of God's will. However, he believed its primary purpose was to reveal sin and point towards Christ, not to earn salvation. 

Paul strongly advocated for justification by faith in Jesus Christ, separate from the works of the law. This means that salvation is not achieved by meticulously following the law's commandments but by trusting in Jesus' sacrifice and resurrection. 

Paul argued that the law was given specifically to the Israelites and did not apply to Gentiles. He believed that Christ's sacrifice reconciled both Jews and Gentiles, creating a new community based on faith, not on adherence to the Mosaic Law. 

Paul did not reject the law entirely. He believed it served a purpose, but it was not the ultimate path to salvation or the standard for Christian living. He emphasized love as the fulfillment of the law and the basis for Christian conduct. 

^^The Faith = represents the specific doctrines, teachings, and beliefs that distinguish Christianity from other religions. It includes the core beliefs about God, Jesus, the Bible, salvation, and the afterlife. 

It's not just a personal belief, but a shared understanding and tradition within the Christian community.

^^^Word of Truth: refers to the Holy Scriptures, which are divinely inspired and considered Elohim's Word. It also encompasses the truth about Elohim's character, revelation, and His ultimate purpose for humanity, as well as the message of salvation offered through Yeshua Ha'Mashiach.

**WEDNESDAY BIBLE STUDY/2 TIMOTHY ~ Chapter 4 https://roadgypsiesvalandholland.blogspot.com/2025/07/wednesday-bible-study2-timothy-chapter-4.html