On November 4, 1974, Brother Stephen Kaung delivered a ministry focused on the Book of Titus, emphasizing the challenges faced by the churches on the island of Crete. He highlighted the presence of disorder and a lack of good works among the believers, which hindered their growth. Paul, who had not initially established these churches, later visited them and found them in an infant state due to their isolation. Stephen explained that the grace of God, which brings salvation, teaches believers to deny ungodliness and live righteously while awaiting the return of Jesus Christ. He stressed that salvation is not based on good works but leads to good works as a natural outcome of faith. The Cretans, characterized by dishonesty and laziness, were called to reflect the transformative power of grace in their lives. Stephen urged that true grace should produce a change in character and behavior, leading to good works that glorify God. He concluded by encouraging believers to embrace the practical implications of grace in their daily lives, ensuring that their actions align with their faith.
Introduction to the Book of Titus and its context.
Challenges faced by the churches in Crete: disorder and lack of good works.
Paul's visit and the need for order and growth.
The role of grace in salvation and its implications for Christian living.
The Cretans' character and the call for transformation through grace.
Encouragement for believers to reflect grace in their actions.
10 For there are many unruly and vain talkers and deceivers, specially they of the circumcision: 11 Whose mouths must be stopped, who subvert whole houses, teaching things which they ought not, for filthy lucre’s sake. 12 One of themselves, even a prophet of their own, said, The Cretians are alway liars, evil beasts, slow bellies. 13 This witness is true. Wherefore rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith; 14 Not giving heed to Jewish fables, and commandments of men, that turn from the truth. 15 Unto the pure all things are pure: but unto them that are defiled and unbelieving is nothing pure; but even their mind and conscience is defiled. 16 They profess that they know God; but in works they deny him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate.
11 For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, 12 Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; 13 Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; 14 Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.
15 These things speak, and exhort, and rebuke with all authority. Let no man despise thee.
4 But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared, 5 Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;