What are we really here for?

Scripture Read: Titus 1:1 Paul, a bond-servant of God and an apostle of Jesus Christ, for the faith of those chosen of God and the knowledge of the truth which is according to godliness, 2 in the hope of eternal life, which God, who cannot lie, promised long ages ago, 3 but at the proper time manifested, even His word, in the proclamation with which I was entrusted according to the commandment of God our Savior, 4 To Titus, my true child in a common faith: Grace and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Savior.

Application: Paul begins his greeting as he often does – making clear Who owns him and Who sent him – something we need to keep before us at all times. Notice the “for” – this gives reason to who Paul is and why he does what he does. His ministry is for others faith – build them up – encourage them – be an example to them. Here is something that should catch our eye – how many times do we focus on running the race right so we will feel good about ourselves.  This is very normal – but if we put it on the level Paul does – we need to remember that the race we run should also to be an example to all that know us. This raises the bar in a good way. Notice also the other reason that Paul was called was for the knowledge of the Truth. I am convinced the reason God made it clear to Paul that he needed to “know” the truth was to protect it and keep it pure. Without correct Doctrine we cannot know what God wants or expects. We will come up with our own way of salvation and teach it, which in turn will doom many to a wrong path. I am saddened that too many get into fights about things that are really left to conviction – liberty areas – but I am just as concerned about the complacency of many leaders that do not draw the line when we get to clear Biblical teaching on an issue. The Word is black and white about so much – especially Who God is, Christ is, the Holy Spirit is, how to be saved. It names many sins, as sins, not options or a matter of opinion. Yet, because it is not Politically Correct many refuse to take a stand. We must be committed to the protection of the Scriptures and it’s message. That is why God called us! He did not call us to get our names on a book, a building or a ministry – as we follow Him He may bring that to pass, but we are here to encourage the faith of the Body and to guard the doctrine that was entrusted to us.

* Meditation Questions: What do you see as the call God gave you? What are you doing to fulfill that? Where do you get your understanding of who God is, how to be saved and what is sin? What is your final authority for truth? How does experience fit in there? How does culture fit in there?