Raising a Sound Church: Older Men
Titus 2:1-2
1 But as for you, teach the things which are in agreement with sound doctrine [which produces men and women of good character whose lifestyle identifies them as true Christians]. 2 Older men are to be temperate, dignified, sensible, sound in faith, in love, in steadfastness [Christlike in character].
When you sit under teaching that is of sound doctrine, then it will produce fruit in your life. Titus chapter 2 talks about the expected fruit in older men, older women, younger women and younger men.
Older men are to be temperate meaning they have to show moderation and self-restraint. This has a lot to do with self-control which is part of the fruit of the Holy Spirit in our life. Older men are expected to be in that state of mind which is free from the excessive influence or passion lust or emotion. Their lives ought to be driven by the Holy Spirit and not by emotions or ungodly passions and desires.
Older men have to be dignified and showing respect, deriving from a higher citizenship, a heavenly citizenship. They out to be an example that others look up to and want to emulate. Older me are expected to be sensible meaning they are living their life according to the wisdom and prudence contained in the word of God.
Older men must be sound in faith, they must have this firm persuasion, conviction and belief in the truth that is the word of God meaning they have to be grounded in the word because faith comes by hearing and hearing the word of God.
Older men must walk in love. They have to demonstrate love, not the kind of love the world displays that is neither here nor there but the Agape love of God.
Older men must have steadfastness, patience; they must be able to endure things or circumstances because they have a hope that faints not because they have an experience walking with God over the years.
Older men should be a pillar and an example to the rest of the believers. I love it that Paul begins with the older men because they also have the role of leadership not just in the home but also in the church and community. The things that Paul points out are not things to be talked about but rather they are things to be seen in the life of another so you either have it or not.
Reflections
Why is it important for the older men to set the pace and display a Godly example?
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Do we have enough examples of dignified older men today? If you are an older man, are you one?
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It is said that you cannot lead people where you have not been! How does that relate to today’s devotion and to you?
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