“Therefore rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith…”
– Titus 1:13
Titus was sent around Crete to find faithful men to lead each fellowship. There was error in the churches, and they needed establishment. Titus was not only tasked with finding able men to lead, but Paul also instructed him to defend the faith from false teachers. Some were insubordinate. They had their agenda and were looking for ways to benefit themselves. They were teaching false doctrine for selfish gain (Titus 1:10-11). It brought confusion to what should have been a peaceful life in Christ. These wolves were to be rebuked sharply, quickly, severely. A charge that can be demanding.
Among the list of qualifications, leaders must be able to teach and handle God’s Word with the utmost care (1 Timothy 3:2). Pastors must be able to rightly divide the Word of truth to avoid stricter judgment (James 3:1). Not only rightly dividing the Scriptures but living them out both in their public and private life. Because when it comes time to correct others, the leader’s walk must be above reproach (Acts 20:28).
Selecting leaders in the church can be arduous. Done hastily, one may find themselves sharing in the sins of others (1 Timothy 5:22). This is not a “do as I say, not as I do” position. It is a calling with the highest expectations, not exemptions. As a congregation, we must remember to pray for our church leaders often. They have the commission to watch over our souls and keep us sound in our great faith.
“Obey those who rule over you, and be submissive, for they watch out for your souls, as those who must give account. Let them do so with joy and not with grief, for that would be unprofitable for you.”
– Hebrews 13:17
surrendered devotions 