Exploring Titus: Paul’s Profound Lessons on Leadership, Faith, and Servanthood in the Pastoral Epistles

A) Welcome to the world of Titus, the third in the series of pastoral epistles. The series includes First Timothy 1, First Timothy 2, and Titus. These are collectively referred to as the pastoral epistles. As we embark on this teaching journey, we'll start with some background information about why Apostle Paul wrote this letter, who Titus was, his location, and the circumstances of the time. Fortunately, this is a shorter epistle, so it won't take a full year to teach. Maybe.

B) The letter begins with Paul's signature identification, a feature present in all Pauline epistles. This is one reason many believe that Hebrews was not written by Paul since his name is absent. Paul first identifies himself as a servant of God and an apostle of Jesus Christ. He acknowledges his servitude and his mission to advance the kingdom. This is a helpful reminder for us all - we are first servants in the Kingdom of God, and then we have our individual tasks.

C) Paul asserts that his position aligns with the faith of God’s Elect. It's important to remember that this is a key pattern of ministry - it's for the elect, for God's chosen people. Just as David recognized his kingship was for the people of Israel, we too are servants in the kingdom for the blessings of others. If we follow this pattern, we follow Jesus' established path.