Category: Titus Series

Valuing Our Gospel-Ministry Workers

Posted on by Union Community Bible Church

 

 

Titus 3:12-15

Valuing Our Gospel-Ministry Workers (Full Sermon Manuscript)

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Introduction:

In the entire book of Titus, Paul’s pastoral epistle for the church in Crete, the church there was expected to exemplify the correct characteristic of a Christian. In chapter 1, we saw that the church needs elders to set things in order.

In chapter 2, we explored the importance of discipleship within the mixed congregation.

Lastly, in chapter 3, we were taught that we ought to be part of the bigger community. We have a responsibility to do “good works”—out of our love towards Christ and others—to show who really Christians are. 

Background:

Sadly, many churches do not value the works of our missionaries, evangelists, and even local pastors. It was in this kind of thought where Paul is reminding the church to appreciate and value our ministry workers. Not that they deserve it, but because they are not perfect. They are as flawed as we are. They struggle in sin; they experience similar sufferings as how most human beings do. I like how Eugene Peterson called them; they are “wounded healers.” They take care of others while taking care of themselves.

Main Idea:

Verse 12
In verse 12, you can see how Paul desired to meet Titus. Maybe they will have a meeting, a sabbatical leave, or another mission assignment. But clearly, in here, you can see how Paul values mentoring and discipleship. That Paul is not merely instructing Titus but also showing Titus the ways of ministerial works.

So, Titus, as we know when we started the Titus series, was with Paul in Jerusalem, then Ephesus and Corinth. Also, in Philippi before going to Crete. Now after Crete, Paul is telling Titus to go to Nicopolis and later to Dalmatia (Yugoslavia).

Verse 13
Make sure to “help” Zenas and Apollos. The church ought to support fellow missionaries. The church’s role in supporting missions is told here. The “help” is the same as hospitality, “make sure they lack nothing.” Their accommodation, food, and more. Why?

Remember, there was no train, no plane back then. They needed to travel by walking, hiking, months and weeks in a ship just to deliver the letter before going to another place. Here most likely going to Alexandria or another part of Northern Africa.

Verse 14
Devoting to do good works, the main theme of Paul’s letter, and assisting or helping the urgent needs in the church. This opportunity to assist Zenas and Apollos is one more example of how Christians can be involved in good works, providing needs, and furthering the gospel.

Hence, giving to the church matters. It is not something optional. It is necessary to the Christian faith because it is for the cause of proclaiming Christ to others. Our fund is not only for self-enrichment but rather for missions and providing the urgent needs of the church. We are not a mere institutional church; we are a missional church. That is our goal.

Verse 15
This part is like the signature line of the writer. Like “Sincerely Yours, or Lovingly, or Yours Truly.” Here, this is very important to know. Letters during Ancient times were designed to be read in public out loud. So, even this is addressed to Titus, this letter is intended to be read out loud. Meaning, everyone ought to hear these words.

Practical Directions:

1. Pray for them. Scottish Baptist minister, Oswald Chambers, said: “Prayer does not equip us for greater works— prayer is the greater work.”

2. Promote relationships. Ask the leaders of the church, “how can we keep in touch with them?” Make sure that you also know the person. Add them on Facebook.

3. Prevent or Protect them. Do not create rumors or gossip about our ministerial workers. It is not well for anyone to have a divisive spirit when it comes to the ministry of God. Being accountable is also part of this.

4. Plan to visit. Let us plan as a church to visit where they are working.

5. Prioritize giving. It is in giving where we take part in the broader ministry.

6. Praise or Appreciate their works.

7. Participate in ministry activities.

8. Lastly, Pause and pray. Every time you remember the person or the place where we have missions and outreaches, practice pause and pray. Pause from whatever you were doing and pray for a minute or two.

Conclusion:

We ought to be intentional in valuing our ministerial workers. As to how Paul ended his letter, “Grace be with all of you.”

 

Ptr. John Paul Arceno
UCBC New Jersey
October 24, 2021

 

This section is an excerpt only; download the full manuscript here.

A Life of Submission

Posted on by Union Community Bible Church

 

 

Text: Titus 3:1-11

A Life of Submission (Full Sermon Manuscript)

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Introduction:

Humpty Dumpty sat on the wall,
Humpty Dumpty had a great fall,
all the kings horses & all the kings men
couldn’t put Humpty together again.

Main Idea:

Titus 2:14, “who gave himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to purify for himself a people for his own possession who are zealous for good works.” (ESV).

1. SUBMIT TO AUTHORITIES

Titus 3:1, “Remind them to be submissive to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good work” (ESV).

Romans 1:16, “For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes” (ESV).

Titus 3:2, “to speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and to show perfect courtesy toward all people” (ESV).

“Only let your manner of life be worthy of the gospel of Christ…” (Philippians 1:27 ESV). The word “manner” or “conduct’ in Greek is “politeuomai” the root word is “politeia” where we got the English word “politics.”

2 Peter 1:12, “Therefore I intend always to remind you of these qualities, though you know them and are established in the truth that you have” (ESV).

Be good citizens of our country, and

…share the life-changing message of Christ with those who don’t yet know Him.

…Pray for the leaders of the country.

1 Timothy 2:1-2: “I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone-for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.”

….Participate and vote your values.

….Submit to God’s Sovereignty.

Daniel 2:21, God “sets up kings and deposes them.”

2. SUBMIT TO THE LORDSHIP OF CHRIST

Titus 3:3: “For we ourselves were once foolish, disobedient, led astray, slaves to various passions and pleasures, passing our days in malice and envy, hated by others and hating one another” (ESV).

2 Corinthians 10:12, they “measure themselves by one another and compare themselves with one another.”

Titus 3:4, “But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared,”

Ephesians 2:3, we “were by nature children of wrath, like the rest of mankind, we were dead in our sin.”

Then v. 4, “But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us”

Titus 3:5-7, he saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit, 6 whom he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior, 7 so that being justified by his grace we might become heirs according to the hope of eternal life” (ESV).

“…by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast” (Ephesians 2:8-9 ESV).

1 Timothy 1:15, “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners–of whom I am the worst” (NIV).

Isaiah 64:6 says, “We have all become like one who is unclean and all our righteous deeds are like a polluted garment” (ESV).

1 John 3:1, “See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God!”

2 Corinthians 5:17, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come” (ESV).

Titus 3:7, “… so that being justified by his grace we might become heirs according to the hope of eternal life.”
“And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ” (Philippians 1:6 ESV).

3. SUBMIT TO THE TRUTH OF GOD’S WORD

Titus 3:8, “The saying is trustworthy, and I want you to insist on these things, so that those who have believed in God may be careful to devote themselves to good works. These things are excellent and profitable for people” (ESV).

John 3:36a, “Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life.”
The Greek word “believe’ is “pisteuo”—trust, a faith that relies on God.

Then in v. 36b, “whoever does not obey the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God remains on him” (ESV)

The Greek word for the phrase “does not obey” is “apeitheo” –”not compliant” or “disobedient.”

“in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect” (1 Peter 3:15 ESV).

“‘Take care, brothers, lest there be in any of you an evil, unbelieving heart, leading you to fall away from the living God. But exhort one another every day, as long as it is called ‘today,’ that none of you may be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin’” (Hebrews 3:12–13 ESV).

 

Dr. Noel De Guzman
Westside Baptist Church, CA
Senior Pastor

October 10, 2021

 

 

The Revealed Hope

Posted on by Union Community Bible Church

 

 

Text: Titus 2:9-15

The Revealed Hope (Full Sermon Manuscript)

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Background:

The world of the early church during the first century was not a golden time full of abundance, resources, and economic rise. It was a time where ordinary people need to work hard, exert much effort and time just to put something on their table. This was a time when they also need to pay high taxes to the Roman government. A time when security was tight, and the politics were full of corrupt people even from the lowest form of their government.

In short, it feels like the last days and it seems like it is the end of the world. No hope. No purpose. Everything is meaningless. EXCEPT for the faithful Christians.

Main Idea:

Jesus Christ is the Revealed Hope to the whole world. Now let us dissect this statement of mine one by one. We will start from the last words up to the first part.

1. The Whole World.

In verse 11 of our passage, it is clear that “the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people.” To whom? To ALL PEOPLE. Plain, simple, and clear. For everyone. Now reading this verse is not enough since the starting word is “for” –conjunction. Meaning, it is connected to the prior verses.

When Christ came, He became the liberator not just of the social status but the spiritual realities of each person. Paul here was echoing Christ. He is saying to Titus that the bondservants have the same privilege, access, and responsibilities to the Christian faith. This may not be something extravagant nowadays. But during that time where bondservants do not have rights or any choice. Finally, someone is giving them a significant value in the community. This community is the Christian faith.

So in here, Paul is saying that the Grace of God is for everyone—equally given to all people who will call upon His Name. Paul is surely consistent with this doctrine. Let us look at the book just after the book of Titus. Philemon. Paul here is saying that Philemon—the master—needs to equally treat Onesimus—the bondservant—as brothers in Christ (Philemon 12-17).

2. The Revealed Hope

As stated, everyone is given the same offer to embrace such freedom. This freedom, liberty, redemption is the hope of those people in ancient times. This hope is a revelation. This revelation of hope is a person. This person is Jesus Christ. They know that Christ will return.

God has revealed to the world that there is hope. Tell the person beside you, there is hope and this hope is Jesus Christ. This revealed hope is the blessed hope that was stated in verse 13. Even in verse 11, the term “appeared” implies a revelation. Therefore, Christ is also the personified grace of God.

3. Jesus Christ (read verse 13b-14)

“For every one look at YOURSELF, take ten looks at CHRIST.” – Robert M. M’cheyne

Means, look to Jesus (Hebrews 12:2) and say “NO” to ungodliness and worldly passions. But as I shared this last ladies prayer meeting, Wednesday. I told them that this statement is applicable to many circumstances in life. Sufferings, righteousness, goodness, achievements, sin, forgiveness, giving, and more.

When we need someone, you immediately call the person you know who can help you. If you want someone to talk to, someone who will listen to you, then open the Bible. The Bible is Christ’s words. “To read it is to hear Christ.”

The Bible is God’s speaking to us; prayer is our speaking him. We acknowledge that God is a real person. Someone, we can lean on. Do not treat God as a tyrant abusive demanding father but rather a loving gracious Father.

4. is/ ego eime/ am

2 but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom also he made the universe. (Heb 1:2) Christ even said that He is the same “Great I AM” whom Moses met at the burning bush event. Christ said, “Before Abraham was, I AM.” (John 8:58) –that was more than 6, 000 years ago.

Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and today, and forever. (Heb. 13:8) – If Jesus is good before, he is still good today. If he was faithful during the broken times of David, He is still faithful today. If he was gracious to the thief on the cross, He is still gracious today. That is the “is” the “am” be-verb means. Christ was and is and always will be the very Friend, Savior, Redeemer that is.

Conclusion:

The Blessed-Revealed Hope – we are all sojourners of this world. We feel pain, experience problems in life, we grieve but we have hope, unlike other people. Why? Because we are not going to stay here in this world permanently. Our home is in the heavenly kingdom of God. We are kingdom citizens.

Embrace the Revealed Hope—Jesus Christ.

 

Ptr. John Paul Arceno
UCBC New Jersey
September 26, 2021

This section is an excerpt only; download the full manuscript here.

A Sound Christian Living

Posted on by Union Community Bible Church

 

 

Text: Titus 2:1-8

A Sound Christian Living (Full Sermon Manuscript)

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Background:

One of Paul’s main concerns was the false teachers teaching a different gospel. Either they are teaching a false doctrine or mixing their doctrine with their former mystical or traditional superstitions. Titus was assigned to Crete to oversee the churches in different towns. He was told to assign elders to advance and support the expansion of the kingdom of God.

Main Idea:

Many say doctrine is sooooo important—yet they do not live in accordance with what they believe. Others say doctrine is not important as long as we show our love to one another. But according to our passage: (Main point) Right Doctrine leads to Right Behavior.

Right doctrine and right behavior correlate with one another. Each is important. Each one is vital to Christianity. The next question is how to achieve these goals?

Reading the verses from 2 focuses on men. Verses 3-5, focuses on women. Lastly, verses 6-8, points to the younger generation. Here, we see that churches during that time were already a mixed-age congregation. There are adult men, adult women, young adults, and young people.

Fathers, as stated, you are to model self-control, love, steadfastness, and sound faith. Can we see these in your life? If yes, praise God. If not, strive harder. We need you to model these qualities so we can learn and conform to these teachings.

Mothers, older women, as stated, you are called to model Christian living. Not just in actions, but also with your words. Not slanderers, but the truths about Christ. Teach them to love as well. Love your family so they will also love their family in the future.

Also, young people, youth listen. Respect the adults. Honor your parents. As stated, learn from these people. They may be a well-spring of wisdom coming to the fount of Christ. There are many things that you can learn from them. Practical life lessons. Do not just spend time playing and doing social media. Start scheduling sessions with the adults. You can talk to them personally. Learn from their mistakes and failures.

Amidst this fallen world, let us exemplify integrity, dignity, sound speech, and model good works. Why? Because if we cannot see any difference from people who live outside Christianity with us, then nothing is attractive with our relationship with the Lord.

Application:

Live a sound Christian life. Meaning, do not say that you believe this, then you live your life in a different way. If you are kind here in our church, you should also be kind outside. If you are generous with your friends, then you should also be generous when it comes to your tithes and offerings.

Do not live a double life. Who or what you are in your home should also be who or what you are with your friends, workplace, or even here at the church. Again, you are not a secret agent who needs to hide your identity. You do not have multiple identities. If you are a Christian, your identity is in Christ.

Do not hide your weaknesses, vices, and hidden sins. It will and will later manifest. We are all wretched and corrupted. Indeed, the church is a hospital for sick people. Yet likewise, you go to hospitals to get well. Christ does not want us to stay sick, let us be well in the Spirit. Live a sound life.

 

Ptr John Paul Arceno
UCBC New Jersey
September 19, 2021

*This section is an excerpt only; download the full manuscript here.

 

Fulfilling the Unfinished Task

Posted on by Union Community Bible Church

 

 

Text: Titus 1:5-16

Fulfilling the Unfinished Task (Full Sermon Manuscript)

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Background:

Just by reading verse 4 of Titus chap 1, we can see that this letter was written for Titus by Apostle Paul (v1).
Titus had been with Paul many times. First, during the Jerusalem Council (Acts 15; Gal. 1-2). Second, from Ephesus, he was sent to Corinth (2 Cor. 8:6, 16-17). Third, they met again in Philippi—then returned to Corinth. Fourth, he was assigned to Crete. Fifth, asked to meet Paul in Nicopolis (Western Greece). And lastly, he was tasked to go to Dalmatia (Montenegro/ Yugoslavia).

Titus exemplified what a true follower of Christ must be. The same with Timothy, Paul told them that a Christian must teach others also so that they can also share the gospel of Christ (2 Timothy 2:2).

Main Idea:

Reading our passage, there are two things that Apostle Paul commanded Titus to do in Crete. These are the very purpose of his stay in Crete. Let us read verse 5:

5 The reason I left you in Crete was that you might put in order what was left unfinished and appoint elders in every town, as I directed you.

Two things: first, “to put in order what was left unfinished;” second is to appoint elders. First one: there is unfinished business in the lives of Christians. There’s something missing, something lacking that each of us must long for. We are not perfect nor in a glorified state of life. Hence, the need of putting things in order in our lives through discipleship, prayer, and growing intimacy with our Lord and Savior.

Second task: appoint elders. Now, in here, I might challenge some of the existing views that some of you might have. In 1 Timothy 3, Acts 6, and even here in Titus 1:5, it clearly states that we appoint elders. It does not say, ballot boxes nor election, nor pushing someone to be an elder. But by appointment. This has been the practice of the early NT church, so as we.

Examples of Gospel myth:

(1) Extreme Positive thinking similar to the Prosperity gospel
(2) The myth that you can be saved by your own work
(3) The contrast is also true. Not attending church services, nor Bible study, fellowships are just fine since I am already saved.
(4) Those who say that the Bible is not the word of God are another danger.
(5) Others would say that Jesus Christ is a mere man, a great teacher but not God. (6) The Spirit is just a force and not another person of the Trinity.
(7) Last myth, Pluralism. Pluralism says that we can find salvation or know God through any world religion.

Three Directions:

  1. Deep Worship
    1. Preaching
    2. Prayer
  2. Deep Discipleship
    1. Studying the Word
      i. “Encourage others by sound doctrine” v9a
      ii. Defend the truth: “refute those who oppose it” v9b
      iii. “Rebuke them sharply” v13
    2. Transforming Lives
      i. Paul said, “Imitate me, just as I imitate Christ” (1 Cor. 11:1).
      ii. We conform to the Elders as they conform to Christ. They are our spiritual models. Hence the need for higher qualities of being a follower of Christ.
  3. Deep Evangelism and Missions
    1. The purpose of Paul sending Titus to Crete is the advancement of the gospel of Christ. The church is more than a mere institution, but we should be missional.
    2. We are not doing it right if we are just focused on the things about ourselves and not longing for the expansion of God’s Word.

 

Ptr. John Paul Arceno
UCBC New Jersey
September 12, 2021

*This section is an excerpt only; download the full manuscript here.