Caught and Taught

Titus 3:1-15 Yesterday we learned what older women should teach younger women. Today we see a list of subjects to be taught to younger men. Younger men should be taught to develop the following:

1. Sobermindedness

2. A pattern of good works

3. Sincere, correct doctrine

4. Sound speech (speak evil of no man)

5. Obedience to employers and government leaders

6. Faithfulness

7. Denial of worldly lusts

8. Righteous living

9. Humility and meekness

The list for young men is much longer than the list for young women. I’ve always thought that women have an easier job than our men do because we only have to obey our husbands. Husbands, however, have the responsibility of provider, protector and priest in their homes. Both young men who are married and unmarried need to be taught all of the above.

It seems to be an impossible list, doesn’t it? How could anyone attain these fine qualities? The answer to that question is that they cannot obtain such lofty goals, ideals and character qualities. These things need to be taught to younger men, but first they must be taught that they cannot develop in these areas if Jesus Christ is not Lord of their lives. Jesus is the obedient One and is the only One who can give them the supernatural grace (God-given ability) to accomplish such worthy goals. Young men need to first catch on fire for Christ before they can be lights shining in this world.

There is a slogan being battered around in revival circles, “Catch the fire.” Paul tells us clearly in the rest of this chapter that it is the Holy Spirit who imparts these wonderful attributes to us. He says, “Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us, through the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit, whom He poured out on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Savior” (v. 5).

If we were taught we had to attain these goals in our own strength, we would be extremely discouraged. Thank God, Paul makes it clear that the Holy Spirit is the One who helps us to not only receive such marvelous teaching, but also to live and walk in what we have been taught. The Holy Spirit imparts these character qualities to all of us. They are caught, not just taught.

READ: Jeremiah 51:54-52:34; Titus 3:1-15; Psalm 100:1-5; Proverbs 26:18-19