ESOCS Devotional 26 February 2025 – Teach Sound Doctrine Always
MEMORY VERSE: “But speak thou the things which become sound doctrine.” Titus 2:1 KJV
TEXT: TITUS 2:1-15
But as for you, speak the things which are proper for sound doctrine: 2 that the older men be sober, reverent, temperate, sound in faith, in love, in patience; 3 the older women likewise, that they be reverent in behavior, not slanderers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things— 4 that they admonish the young women to love their husbands, to love their children, 5 to be discreet, chaste, homemakers, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be blasphemed.
6 Likewise, exhort the young men to be sober-minded, 7 in all things showing yourself to be a pattern of good works; in doctrine showing integrity, reverence, incorruptibility, 8 sound speech that cannot be condemned, that one who is an opponent may be ashamed, having nothing evil to say of you.
9 Exhort bondservants to be obedient to their own masters, to be well pleasing in all things, not answering back, 10 not pilfering, but showing all good fidelity, that they may adorn the doctrine of God our Savior in all things.
11 For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men, 12 teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age, 13 looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, 14 who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from every lawless deed and purify for Himself His own special people, zealous for good works.
15 Speak these things, exhort, and rebuke with all authority. Let no one despise you.
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The Greek word here for “sound” means “healthy”. Truth that comes from God is spiritually healthy for the preservation of the soul. It is this truth that Paul instructed Titus to teach (always) in order to correct the virus of ungodliness that was prevalent in the area where he was ministering. That which is healthy teaching refers to the teaching that affects one’s attitudes and behaviour. It is healthy, not because it is simply believed, but because it is behaved.
To recognize sound doctrine, the teaching is sound, it combines correct knowledge and understanding with consistent practice. Above all, it must be found in the Bible.
But why teach sound doctrine always? Generally, so that believer can be grounded in the truths of the scripture – then they won’t be swayed by the powerful oratory of false teachers. Specifically, to enable the older men (Elders) to conduct themselves with dignity and sobriety. The demeanour of their lives must be characterized by reverential self-control that manifests loving patience towards others wherever they are. In the same vein, for the older women (mothers), for godly behaviour characterized by self–control, both in speech and lifestyle.
Also, to enable them teach that which is good, both by word and the demeanour of their lives generally. Women who allow themselves to become emotionally out of control do not reflect the conduct of women with integrity. Again, it is to enable them teach the younger women how to conduct themselves with dignity. To the young men, it is to enable them to manifest a character of integrity by exercising self-control in all areas of their lives. Finally, by extension, to teach servants to obey their masters and please them in all things.
Sound doctrine is the content of (our) faith. It has a universal application, touching all ages in the church. Teaching sound doctrine is the work of every believer.
CHALLENGES
- Many factors have made many to condition the teaching of sound doctrine.
PRAYER POINT
- Dear Holy Spirit, guide me to teach sound doctrine always.
FURTHER READING: 1 Timothy 1:10; 3:2-16; 4:1-5; 2 Timothy 4:3
ESOCS Devotional 26 February 2025
