Titus 2 (New International Version, ©2010)
Doing Good for the Sake of the Gospel
7 In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness
8 and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned, so that those who oppose you may be ashamed because they have nothing bad to say about us.
I often speak of my gratitude that God has placed me in a fellowship where the focus is studying His Word under the leadership of a teacher who “rightly divides the Word”.
2 Timothy 2:15 (New King James Version)
15 Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
In this season of Advent it is critical that we spend time in preparation and preparation is found in the Word of God.
Paul was an excellent example of an earthly teacher. Paul evidenced knowledge and understanding of the scriptures that were available to him and application to daily life.
Titus 1 (New International Version, ©2010)
1 Paul, a servant of God and an apostle of Jesus Christ to further the faith of God’s elect and their knowledge of the truth that leads to godliness— 2 in the hope of eternal life, which God, who does not lie, promised before the beginning of time, 3 and which now at his appointed season he has brought to light through the preaching entrusted to me by the command of God our Savior,
Paul should be an encouragement to all who believe. Here was a man whose early purpose in life was to persecute those who believed In Christ and who later became our most prolific gospel writer.
Not all of us should be teachers, but all of us need to be under the leadership of a good teacher.
During this time of preparation, this time of Advent, we can pray God to show us our individual purpose, knowing that there is work in the kingdom for each of us.
1 Corinthians 12 (New International Version, ©2010)
Concerning Spiritual Gifts
1 Now about the gifts of the Spirit, brothers and sisters, I do not want you to be uninformed.
4 There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them.
5 There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord.
6 There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work.
7 Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good. (emphasis added)
During this time of prayer, fasting and penitence we can ask for guidance as we celebrate His earthly birth and prepare for His second coming. This is a wonderful time to seek our special place in the body of Christ. This is a wonderful time to rededicate ourselves to His service.
May God Forever Be a Blessing in Your Life!!!
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