Credibility in Christ

Beyond the Present Time
Resurrection Hope
Equipped with Hope

Titus 1:5-9

The Message

A Good Grip on the Message

^5-9 I left you in charge in Crete so you could complete what I left half-done. Appoint leaders in every town according to my instructions. As you select them, ask, “Is this man well-thought-of? Is he committed to his wife? Are his children believers? Do they respect him and stay out of trouble?” It’s important that a church leader, responsible for the affairs in God’s house, be looked up to—not pushy, not short-tempered, not a drunk, not a bully, not money-hungry. He must welcome people, be helpful, wise, fair, reverent, have a good grip on himself, and have a good grip on the Message, knowing how to use the truth to either spur people on in knowledge or stop them in their tracks if they oppose it.

For Reflection

Aristotle defined a credible speaker as a "good man."  What defines a good man in his day is no different from what defines a good man today.  If one is competent (He knows what he is talking about.), fair ( perhaps just) and trustworthy he is thought of as credible.  Whom do you know that fits that category?  If a man or woman fits the criteria listed in Titus, then he or she is probable God centered.  To what extent is your credibility based upon a God centered life? 

Pray

that you will seek knowledge and wisdom.  Pray that you will be fair and just in all of your interactions.  Pray that you will act in ways that will warrant the trust others place in you.  Pray that when you speak of your faith others will find you credible.