declaring the gospel

Declare these things; exhort and rebuke with all authority. Let no one disregard you.

Titus 2:15

Paul encourages the young pastor Titus to be bold in speaking and teaching the Word of God in a difficult cultural climate. What are the “these things” Titus was to declare? In the preceding context (Titus 2:11-14), we see “these things” are the gospel… specifically some important elements of the gospel:

• Grace. The grace of God has appeared in Jesus.
• Salvation. It is offered to all people.
• Holiness. The gospel trains us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions.
• Character. We live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives right now, not just in eternity.
• Hope. We obey, live holy, and wait for Christ’s return. It is a “blessed hope” and a great motivation in and of itself.
• Future. Jesus WILL return as Great God and Savior.
• Redemption and Purification. We are now a people who are Jesus’ own possession.
• Zealous. We are passionate to do good as Jesus does.

How was Titus to declare these elements of a well-rounded gospel?

• Exhortation. This is the encouragement that comes through the preaching and teaching of scripture. It moves beyond knowledge to practical application and life choices made with God’s wisdom.
• Rebuke. And when someone is resistant to God’s Word in Christ’s church we have to tell them they are wrong and urge them to repent, relying on the truth of scripture and the convicting work of the Holy Spirit.
• Authority. If we do not dilute God’s Word with personal opinion (easier said than done), we have the absolute authority of God’s voice leading us. Don’t add to it. Don’t take away from it. Let God’s authoritative and sufficient Word speak!
• Unbending. Don’t let those opinions that reject God defeat you as His messenger. Be confident that God is saving through the gospel of Jesus Christ and that the Holy Spirit is indeed working, even in hearts that show you no outward acceptance of the gospel.