Articles
A Young Preacher - Titus
A Young Preacher
Paul begins his letter to Titus by telling him he is to "put what remained in order, and appoint elders in every town…" (Titus 1:5). Such a preacher is NOT an elder or pastor. God ordained that there would be elders who were the overseers (bishops) of the church. He ordained that EACH such group of people would have their own elders who worked with the flock among them (1Pet. 5:1-3).
As for Titus the preacher, he was to "teach what accords with sound doctrine" (Titus 2:1). This was to be accompanied by his own righteous living: "Show yourself in all respects to be a model of good works, and in your teaching show integrity, dignity, and sound speech that cannot be condemned, so that an opponent may be put to shame, having nothing evil to say about us" (Tit. 2:7). Thus he was to "Declare these things; exhort and rebuke with all authority. Let no one disregard you" (Titus 2:15). He was to remind them of who they were and who they NOW are because of God's mercy and grace (chapter 3). With such knowledge he was to "insist on these things, so that those who have believed in God may be careful to devote themselves to good works. These things are excellent and profitable for people" (Titus 3:8).
Preaching was not a job that you 'fell back on when there was no secular job available'. In fact, it was not a 'job' at all, but rather a life. It was (and is) a life of serving God by serving God's people. It is a life that requires discipline, training, and effort. It is a life that causes some to despise you. It is a life of service unto God.
I always remember the answer that was given when a young man asked: "Should I go into preaching?" The answer: not if you can help it! It is a life that comes when one is consumed with the world's need for the Word of God. There is always a need of such men. There are also some 'preachers' who ought to make tents instead. Hugh DeLong
