Accepting Our Role as Teachers and Models
What Does It Mean to Be a Teacher and Model?
We often think that teaching and modeling are roles for the most qualified or the most knowledgeable. However, every one of us is constantly teaching and modeling something through our actions and words. The question is, what are we passing on to others?
The Call to Teach and Model
In Titus Chapter 2, Paul emphasizes that we must teach what is appropriate to sound doctrine. This includes teaching older men to be temperate and self-controlled, older women to be reverent and not slanderers, and younger women and men to be self-controlled and pure. Paul also instructs Titus to set an example by doing what is good, showing integrity and seriousness in his teachings.
Understanding the Gospel Story
The Gospel in Titus
The grace of God has appeared, offering salvation to all people. This grace teaches us to say no to ungodliness and worldly passions and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives. We are to wait for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ.
The Effect of the Gospel
The gospel story trains us to live in a way that makes sense if the gospel is true. It means keeping our passions for temporary things at appropriate levels and living in anticipation of Jesus’ return. This story has produced a movement of people invested in following Jesus.
Living in the Story
How to Read the Bible
To grow in our understanding of the gospel story, we need to read the Bible with two perspectives:
1. **How does this part of scripture contribute to the big story that leads to Jesus?**
2. **How does this part of scripture make sense on its own?**
Applying the Story to Our Lives
Understanding the story is not enough; we must also live in it. This means our lives should reflect the truth that Jesus is the risen Christ. For the Cretan Christians, this meant living differently from their culture, which was characterized by lying, laziness, and gluttony. For us, it means examining our lives and making changes to align with the gospel.
Life Application
Questions to Reflect On
- What are you learning right now?
Reflect on what you have been learning in your faith journey recently. - What are you talking about to others?
Consider if your conversations reflect the teachings of the Bible. - Do you look like a character in the story where Jesus is the risen Christ?
Evaluate if your life aligns with the gospel story.
Practical Steps
- Wrestle with Good Questions: When you read the Bible, always ask, "What am I going to do with this?"
- Change the Soundtracks in Your Mind: Ask the Holy Spirit to help you replace negative or false thoughts with gospel truth.
- Consider What You Are Teaching and Modeling: Be mindful of the example you set in your daily interactions.
We are all teachers and models in our faith journey, whether we realize it or not. This week, challenge yourself to reflect on what you are learning, what you are discussing, and how you are living. Make intentional changes to align your life with the gospel story. Remember, you are part of a movement that draws people to Jesus and helps them grow in faith.
Life Application
Reflect on these questions and take action this week:
- What are you learning in your faith journey?
- How do your conversations reflect your faith?
- Does your life align with the gospel story?
Challenge yourself to make intentional changes and live out the gospel in your daily life. Let’s embrace our roles as teachers and models, helping others grow in their faith as we grow in ours.