Titus

While we Wait — Copyright 2021 — Sue LeBoutillier TITUS WHILE WE WAIT g A Devotional Bible Study on the Book of Titus by Sue LeBoutillier Copyright © 2020 Sue LeBouƟllier Published by: Calvary Chapel — Ontario, Oregon

While we Wait — Copyright 2021 — Sue LeBoutillier g While We Wait g Titus Dear Friends, Most women who pick up a Bible Study Guide are already ChrisƟans, or at least know something about Jesus, the Church, or the Bible. Many of you are Americans and you’ve lived most of your life (unƟl recently) in a culture that has played nice with Judeo-ChrisƟan values. When you drive through any city or town in America, you’re not surprised to see a Church building. You actually expect to find Churches because our cultural values have been in agreement with Biblical values. Ideas like seeking out truth, marriage and family, honesty and respect for one another have been both cultural and ChrisƟan characterisƟcs. But, you might be surprised to find a ChrisƟan Church flourishing in a culture that is the opposite of what we described above! The place where Titus was living when he received this leƩer had no Judeo- ChrisƟan foundaƟon whatsoever. The people on the island of Crete were characterized by immorality and deceiƞulness. The Apostle Paul quoted from their own literature when he described them as “liars, evil beasts, lazy gluƩons” (1:12). WOW! Those aren’t the type of people you would expect to find in Church. But some actually believed the Gospel of Jesus Christ, be- came born-again, and formed Churches. Now that they were ChrisƟans, how were they to live? Unlike many of the communiƟes we may have grown up in — with some semblance of morality — nothing in their culture prepared them for a ChrisƟan lifestyle. It would require a fresh work of the Holy Spirit and good pas- toral leadership to teach them how they were to live in their present situaƟon and their present age. What do I mean by their present age? That’s a phrase Paul used in Titus chapter two: training us to … live Godly lives in the present age! It means the duraƟon of Ɵme a ChrisƟan remains living on this earth while their ciƟzenship is in Heaven — unƟl Jesus takes them home.

While we Wait — Copyright 2021 — Sue LeBoutillier For the Cretans — while they were waiƟng for Heaven — God had certain work for them to accomplish. We are the same — while we are waiƟng for Heaven, God has work for us to accomplish — Titus 2:14 says we are to be zealous for good works. Titus was God’s chosen leader, shepherd and instructor in the faith! Paul was moved by the Holy Spirit to send him this leƩer with instruc- Ɵons that would not only be relevant to the ministry in Crete in the first century, but would be included in our cannon of Scripture as Ɵmeless inspiraƟon on how we (all ChrisƟans) should live while we wait for Jesus to return for His bride! This is a six-week Bible Study with four days of study each week. There are only 46 verses in Titus, so it will be very easy for us to write out the whole book as we study. I’m glad you are joining us in this endeavor and I pray that the Holy Spirit will guide you into a greater understanding of how you can hon- or God and serve Him while you wait! Many Blessings, Sue LeBoutillier sue@ccontario.com *The best translaƟon of the Bible to use is the one you understand the most easily — and using more than one translaƟon can be a great aid to study! This study guide was created using the ESV (English Standard Version), which may be a helpful tool as you work through your study. To watch the video teachings for this Bible Study go to: ccontario.com/womens-studies or YouTube.com/calvarychapelontario

While we Wait — Copyright 2021 — Sue LeBoutillier These pages are intended be used along with the introductory teaching video on Titus (www.ccontario.com/WOW-Titus). If you are studying in a group, the quesƟons on page 7 may provide some good discussion starters following the video. A simplified outline of the book of Titus demonstrates how ChrisƟans should live in these contexts of life — Chapter 1: In __________________ life Chapter 2: In __________________ life Chapter 3: In __________________ life Titus 1:1-4 — Who wrote this leƩer? ______________ To whom was this leƩer wriƩen? __________________ Where was Titus residing when Paul wrote this leƩer? ____________ How did Paul describe himself? __________ of God ____________ of Jesus Christ What moƟvated Paul to write this leƩer? The __________ of God’s elect, Their ______________ of truth, and ________ of eternal life While We Wait — Introduction to Titus While we wait for the blessed hope-- the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ! — Titus 2:13 (NIV)

While we Wait — Copyright 2021 — Sue LeBoutillier ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ Notes for Introduction to Titus

While we Wait — Copyright 2021 — Sue LeBoutillier A Brief Bio on Titus à By birth, Titus was a GenƟle — GalaƟans 2:3 says he was Greek. à It is likely that he was introduced to the Gospel through Paul’s ministry since Paul calls him my true son (child) in Titus 1:4. à We know that Titus accompanied Paul to Jerusalem to see Peter and James. (GalaƟans 2:1) à Then, confronƟng the false teaching of the Judaizers (GalaƟans 2:3), Paul pointed out that even Titus had not been required to be circumcised — he was accepted by faith alone. à AŌerward, Titus accompanied Paul on a missionary journey. In 2 Corinthians 8:23, Paul described Titus as his partner and fellow worker for your benefit. à We learn in Titus 1:5 that Paul leŌ Titus behind on Crete to com- plete the work that had begun. à Finally, the last reference seems to be that Titus had been with Paul in Rome and leŌ for other ministry. (2 Timothy 4:10)

While we Wait — Copyright 2021 — Sue LeBoutillier Questions for Thought & Discussion 1. Paul described himself in v.1 as both a servant of God and an apostle of Jesus Christ. We know his specific ministry was to preach the Gospel to the GenƟles. Do you also consider yourself a servant of God? If so, name some specific ways you are walking out your calling. 2. How would someone noƟce that you are carrying out the call to be a servant of God? 3. Paul referred to Titus as ‘my true child in a common faith’ (v.4), even though Paul was a circumcised Jew and Titus an uncircum- cised Greek. Explain how belonging to the Body of Christ has the potenƟal of eliminaƟng differences between people. 4. Have you experienced the blessing of a close relaƟonship with someone very different than you because of your bond in Christ? 5. The phrase, true child, portrays a mentoring relaƟonship. In your life, have you benefited from a mentor? Have you mentored someone as a true child in the faith? 6. Have you ever thought of the Ɵmeline of your life in terms of waiƟng for the appearing of Jesus Christ? What difference would it make to consider what you should be doing WHILE YOU WAIT?

While we Wait — Copyright 2021 — Sue LeBoutillier We will begin to write out the verses of Titus in our journal; but first, set aside the first 10 minutes of your study Ɵme to simply read through the enƟre book. Before you begin: 1) Skim through the following quesƟons to help direct your reading; 2) Pray and ask the Holy Spirit to help you learn from God’s Word; 3) READ the whole book! · In one sentence, how would you describe the purpose of this leƩer? · RepeƟƟon gives insight into what maƩers most — what words or phrases did you noƟce that were repeated? · How would you summarize Paul’s main instrucƟon to Titus? · List any problems or situaƟons that seemed to prompt Paul to write this leƩer: a WRITE Titus 1:1-4 in your journal. You may want to double space to give yourself room for notes and markings as you study. Week 2 — Day 1: The Blessing of Order — Titus 1:1-16

While we Wait — Copyright 2021 — Sue LeBoutillier a READ Titus 1:1-16 & WRITE Titus 1:5-9 in your journal. · How did Titus happen to live on Crete (v.5)? · What general and specific tasks did Paul ask Titus to focus on (v.5)? · How can this be used as an example of specific tasks that God may drop into the lap of His servants like you and me today? · What do these verses suggest about order and organizaƟon in the local Church Body? Read also Acts 14:23 and 1 Peter 5:1-3. · From v.6-8, list characterisƟcs and qualificaƟons in these posiƟve and negaƟve columns for elders/overseers* in the local Church: An elder should be: An elder should not be: * Note: Elder, overseer and pastor are used interchangeably in many parts of the Bible including 1 Peter 5:1-2. Day 2:

While we Wait — Copyright 2021 — Sue LeBoutillier · How might it be possible for a wife to either help or hinder her husband in meeƟng those qualificaƟons? · What qualificaƟon is echoed twice in v.6-7? · Explain what that phrase means and why you think it is an important characterisƟc for an elder. · Elders/overseers are to ‘hold firm to the word as taught’. What two important tasks must they uphold regarding sound doctrine (v.9)? · Which of those tasks would you guess might not be tolerated very well in today’s culture? · Why is it important that elders be ready to rebuke those who contradict sound doctrine? I have been sent to strengthen the faith of those God has chosen and to teach them to know the truth that shows them how to live godly lives. — the Apostle Paul (Titus 1:1 NLT)

While we Wait — Copyright 2021 — Sue LeBoutillier a READ Titus 1:5-16 & WRITE Titus 1:10-14 in your journal. Draw something to resemble bricks under the phrases: sound in the faith (v.13) sound doctrine (v.9) knowledge of the truth (v.1) One task of elders/overseers is to protect the Church from decepƟon. Because of our enemy Satan, decepƟon abounds. · In contrast to the characterisƟcs of elders, list the qualiƟes and acƟons of those who stand opposed to sound doctrine in v.10-12: · What does it mean to be insubordinate (Check other translaƟons)? · What is an empty talker (Check other translaƟons)? Paul specifically menƟoned to watch out for those of the circumcision party. We met them when we studied GalaƟans. Read Gal. 2:11-14. · What influence had they secured within the Church? · What acƟons had Paul taken when he realized this? We also know people who agree with the core of the Gospel but teach that there is more a person must do to be accepted by God. · What acƟon did Paul tell Titus must be taken with them (v.11)? Day 3:

While we Wait — Copyright 2021 — Sue LeBoutillier · In a modern Church, who has the primary task to see that this happens? Perhaps this gives you something to add to your prayers for the elders of your Church! I mean, everyone knows that pastors are supposed to be kind and agreeable and tell good jokes, right? How in the world could an elder or pastor silence someone, or worse yet, rebuke them sharply and sƟll be a leader? Let’s keep digging... · What was the goal of rebuking false teaching (v.13)? · What general aƩributes did Paul point out about the Cretans (v.12)? · What is the connecƟng word between the descripƟon of the culture’s character (v.12) and the phrase, ‘rebuke them sharply’ (v.13)? Do you think some personaliƟes require a greater degree of firmness than others? Have you experienced that with children — some require a stern speech while others only a sober glance? Perhaps not every situaƟon calls for a sharp rebuke, but a leader must be ready for any task. a READ Titus 1:5-16 & WRITE Titus 1:15-16 in your journal. · Mark the words ‘work’ with a large “W”. Paul already exposed the prevailing cultural tendencies and finished this secƟon with a summary of how people’s views of life are shaped by the condiƟon of their hearts. · How do people, who are pure in heart, view things? · How do people, who are defiled, view things? Day 4:

While we Wait — Copyright 2021 — Sue LeBoutillier Read Romans 1:21-22 and 1 Timothy 6:3-5. According to these passages: · How do people’s minds/consciences become defiled and unbelieving? · What character traits would we expect in someone whose mind/ conscience becomes defiled and unbelieving? · What would you prescribe as a remedy for someone whose mind has become defiled? (Give a Scripture verse) · Take v.16 and flip it to the posiƟve — What would be indicators that someone actually does know God? READ Ephesians 4:11-12. The Church is an important place. Satan is out to destroy the Church, but Jesus not only died and sent His Holy Spirit to the Church, He also gave pastors and elders to equip us — His people — in order for us to fulfill the purpose for which each one was created. “A pastor needs two voices, one for gathering the sheep and the other for driving away wolves and thieves” — John Calvin 1

While we Wait — Copyright 2021 — Sue LeBoutillier Questions for Thought & Discussion 1. Note that Titus was to appoint elders — plural! Why do you think the presence of mulƟple men as elders is important? 2. Why is it relevant for us to study the qualificaƟons for elders in a women’s Bible study? 3. Some Churches select business-type leaders as elders/overseers. What danger do you see in overlooking a man’s ability to instruct in sound doctrine or ignoring the signs of sancƟficaƟon? 4. Since elders are to oversee (v.7) the local Church as God’s stew- ard, we should pray that they would govern well. How are you praying for your elders/overseers/pastors? Or, how will you begin to pray more regularly for them? 5. I once heard a pastor say (regarding people in their Church), ‘Never say anything to hurt their heart’. While that may sound loving and noble, how does that statement hold up to the task given to elders in this chapter? 6. What types of good work do you think Paul refers to in v.16?

While we Wait — Copyright 2021 — Sue LeBoutillier ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ Notes for Teaching on Titus 1:1-16 —

While we Wait — Copyright 2021 — Sue LeBoutillier a READ Titus 2:1-10 & WRITE Titus 2:1-2 in your journal... · Circle the words older men with a red pencil. While we wait for Jesus to return, we’ve been given a blueprint for living. The Bible teaches us how to apply sound doctrine in such a way as to live very differently than the culture around us. Maybe your peo- ple aren’t quite as rough as the people on Crete — but maybe they are! You will stand out if you follow the advice Paul gave to Titus! The beginning of this chapter really appeals to my love of organiza- Ɵon, since I oŌen live by bullet points and lists. That’s why we’re encircling each people group in red in this week’s text — to easily idenƟfy the paƩern of good works given to them. This chapter begins with ‘but’, which signals a comparison or contrast. · What is the instrucƟon to Titus in v.1? · Explain what that means: With the opening words, ‘teach what accords with sound doctrine’, the Apostle accomplished two things: a contrast to anything the false teachers in chapter one would have been teaching, and a topic sen- tence or an umbrella statement for the verses to come. These verses describe how believers in Christ are to relate to one another. · On the next page, list characterisƟcs older men in the Church should possess. Then, define or elaborate on each. (You may want to check a different translaƟon to add to your understanding.) Week 3 — Day 1: Counter-Culture Living — Titus 2:1-10

While we Wait — Copyright 2021 — Sue LeBoutillier Older men are to be... · Go back and read Titus 1:12. In a culture saturated with conduct like that, what impact do you think Titus 2:2 men would have? · Go back and read Titus 1:10-11. How would Titus 2:2 men stand in contrast to false teachers infiltraƟng the Church? a READ Titus 2:1-10 & WRITE Titus 2:3-5 in your journal. · Circle the words older women and young women with red. · Write one sentence that summarizes how older ChrisƟan women should conduct themselves: Day 2:

While we Wait — Copyright 2021 — Sue LeBoutillier We’re going to use these three verses next week for an in-depth study on these characterisƟcs. I menƟon it now so you won’t be surprised at our brief overview today. · What group does the word likewise connect with? · What do you think is the reason for making that connecƟon? What are the similariƟes? · How do you think the disƟncƟon between older women and young- er women might have been made at the Ɵme of this leƩer? · Do you think it has changed in our day? · What two T-words describe the acƟve task of older women (v.3-4)? ________________ ______________________ · Who was to be the object of their teaching (v.4)? · Write one sentence that summarizes how the older women are to instruct the younger women? (Remember, we will dissect these verses next week!) · What is the desired outcome of women behaving properly (v.5)?

While we Wait — Copyright 2021 — Sue LeBoutillier a READ Titus 2:1-10 & WRITE Titus 2:6-8 in your journal. · Circle the words younger men in red. · Underline each phrase, self-control, in v.1-8. Today’s passage begins once again with the word likewise. · What similariƟes do you see among all of these people groups that caused Paul to conƟnue to use that connecƟng word? · What one quality is Titus to encourage among the young men (v.6)? · List the character qualiƟes that Titus himself is to demonstrate to the young men by his own life (v.7-8). Check with other translaƟons for more depth of understanding: · What is the end goal for having this type of character (v.8)? Day 3: As obedient children, do not be conformed to the passions of your former ignorance, but as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct. — Peter 1:14-15 (ESV)

While we Wait — Copyright 2021 — Sue LeBoutillier · What is the one phrase that is repeated for each group? You’ll find it menƟoned three Ɵmes: _________________________________. · Define and elaborate on what that phrase means and why it’s so important for each group: “I choose to live my life in a glass house,” said no one ever! And yet, Paul suggested that Titus live exactly that way. In fact, pastors and elders are called to model how the Gospel affects a person’s life. In the NKJV, v.7 says, “ ...showing yourself to be a paƩern of good works.” · How is the integrity of the local Church affected through either posiƟve or negaƟve role-modeling by the leaders? · How would you explain sound speech in more modern language, as an aƩribute that Titus (or any pastor or leader) should display? a READ Titus 2:1-10 & WRITE Titus 2:9-10 in your journal. · Circle the word bondservant in red. · Put an “S” over each word submissive in v.1-10. If you studied 1 Peter with us, you may remember the Greek word hypotasso, which is translated submissive in v.9. Vines dicƟonary tells us it is a military word, which means, to rank under. It describes how order is established and maintained within a group of people. Day 4:

While we Wait — Copyright 2021 — Sue LeBoutillier It’s used 40 Ɵmes in the New Testament regarding various relaƟon- ships, including Jesus making Himself subject to His Father (1 Cor. 15:28). Isn’t that interesƟng? — Jesus Himself, being in very nature God, willingly walked in hypotasso in His own relaƟonship to His Father. In Titus 2, this word is used to describe Godly character in both home and work life: — young wives’ submission toward their husbands (v.5), and — bondservants’ submission toward their masters (v.9) Before we lose our minds over this word, let’s remember what we learned above — even Jesus walked in submission to God the Father. Unlike the portrayal in our culture — submission doesn’t: · mean blind obedience to another person · strip one of their value, intellect or worth · denote inferiority Submission merely describes the rank one holds, how they relate to others around them. You might say, “just as Jesus related to His Father — a bondservant is to relate to their master.” Fill in these columns with the other appropriate acƟons for servants. While you’re at it, consider the implicaƟon for employees: It’s good for servants to: It’s bad for servants to: · Complete the missing words from v.10: “So that in everything they may ___________ the ______________ of God our Savior.” What do you think this means?

While we Wait — Copyright 2021 — Sue LeBoutillier QuesƟons for Thought & Discussion 1. Would you say that many of the men in your Church Body fit the descripƟon of Titus 2:2? Explain: 2. List three purposeful ways to raise boys to be Titus 2:2 men: 3. Would you say that many of the women in your Church Body fit the descripƟon of Titus 2:3-5? Explain: 4. Why do you think Titus was to delegate the task of training the young women to the older women? 5. Has it been your observaƟon that it’s easy or natural for young women to love their children and their husbands? What effect might a woman’s upbringing and/or culture have on this? 6. Explain how integrity, dignity and sound speech (v.7-8) cause the Word of God to flourish. Do you think most people are looking for those traits when searching for a Church and a pastor? 7. Since, as an employee, you are to submit to or rank under your employer, what should be the course of acƟon if that employer asks you to do something illegal or immoral?

While we Wait — Copyright 2021 — Sue LeBoutillier ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ Notes from Teaching on Titus 2:1-10 —

While we Wait — Copyright 2021 — Sue LeBoutillier We’re about to do something I don’t believe we’ve ever done in our WOW Bible Studies. We’re backtracking in Scripture to spend an en- Ɵre week on three verses — just 58 words. It’s not such an outlandish idea — enƟre books have been wriƩen on these three verses. In our Women of the Word Studies, we endeavor to study the Bible book-by-book, not just the pink verses. But when we run into those pink verses, it’s wise for us to slow down and really process them! Titus was given a big task — to bring order to the Church on Crete. He needed to select elders and train the men in Godly living. But what was he going to do about those women? — because women can be quite a force! Well, that’s why Paul gave Titus some simple and clear instrucƟons. I’ve woven them into an outline for this week: * Day One — Older Women: Reverence and Control * Day Two — Older Women: Teaching and Training * Day Three — Younger Women: Love and Nurture * Day Four — Younger Women: Home and Character One more thing — You won’t find QuesƟons for Discussion at the end of this week’s study — the reflecƟon quesƟons will be mixed in each day in order to keep them more closely associated with the verses. Titus 2:3a “Older women likewise are to be reverent in behavior, not slanders or slaves to much wine.” Look up and write out this verse in a different translaƟon: · What does it mean to be reverent in behavior? Week 4 — Day 1: Older Women: Reverence & Control A Christian Woman in Today’s World — Titus 2:3-5

While we Wait — Copyright 2021 — Sue LeBoutillier · Share an example of the opposite of reverent behavior: · What does slander mean? · No one wakes up and says, “I think I’ll be a slanderer today.” So, how does slander happen? How does it so easily slip into conver- saƟons between women? · What effect does the presence of slander among ChrisƟans have on the reputaƟon of the Gospel? · Why do you think Paul compared excessive wine consumpƟon to slavery when none of the other vices are characterized that way?

While we Wait — Copyright 2021 — Sue LeBoutillier It’s preƩy easy to avoid alcohol in our culture if we choose to. We have plenty of opƟons for hydraƟon: clean drinking water, carbonated beverages, coffee! That wasn’t the case for the ancients. Their thirst- quenching opƟons were few: goat’s milk, stagnant water, or some form of fruit beverage in some stage of fermentaƟon — wine! It’s no wonder Paul suggested self-control — it would be needed daily. · Describe some of the effects too much wine has on a person: · How might those affect a woman’s reverent lifestyle? (Today we call it ‘our witness’) · Paul admonished not to be ‘addicted to much wine’ (NIV). How should we apply that to our alcohol-drinking decisions today? · Where do other substances fit into this conversaƟon? Do prescrip- Ɵon drugs, marijuana, other things affect our witness? This is a delicate conversaƟon. Some women know they are enslaved, broken and grieving; some are in denial and think they are in control of the substances they consume. Both groups need compassion, pray- er, and a community of support within the Body of Christ.

While we Wait — Copyright 2021 — Sue LeBoutillier Perhaps YOU realize that what you’ve consumed to help you escape or calm down has become your master. God is not mad at you, He is your hope for freedom! Lean in to Him today and confess your bondage and ask Him to free you from slavery. Titus 2:3-4 “Older women … are to teach what is good, and so train the young women.” I became a mother while living a thousand miles from my own mother. Paul and I were already ChrisƟans. We served in youth ministry and were at Church every Ɵme the doors were open. So, we made many friends and connecƟons across all age groups. I was the younger woman who really needed an older women. I didn’t necessarily need someone to mother me or show constant interest in my baby. I needed someone who had walked with God longer than I had. I needed someone who actually displayed Godly characterisƟcs in her life. I needed someone to remind me to trust in God and be paƟent with my own spiritual progress. I remember some women expressed interest in sharing their life with a girl decades younger, while others seemed completely absorbed with their own age group. They gave off the ‘been there, done that, no longer interested’ vibe. What a loss for the Church when that happens. · According to v.3, what phrase describes what older women are to teach? · You’ve heard the saying, ‘you can’t teach what you don’t know.’ Explain how teaching and training younger women rests upon the reverent behavior encouraged earlier in this verse: Day 2: Older Women: Teaching & Training

While we Wait — Copyright 2021 — Sue LeBoutillier If you fall in the category of an older woman: · In what areas do you need the Lord’s help to live a reverent life so you have something good to give to the younger generaƟon? · In what specific areas has God equipped you to teach good things? (i.e. a struggle with inferƟlity, raising a strong-willed child, overcoming an addicƟon, loving an unbelieving husband, etc.) · What are some roadblocks that older women face in teaching and training? How can they be overcome? · What are some roadblocks that younger women face in receiving from older women? How can they be overcome? Number, in order, the most effecƟve ways that you have learned from other women (There is no right or wrong, just your experience): _____ aƩending groups or classes taught by women _____ working alongside other women _____ conversaƟons—asking quesƟons to other women _____ observing how other women do life _____ praying with other women

While we Wait — Copyright 2021 — Sue LeBoutillier Titus 2:4-5 “Then they can train the young women to love their husbands and children, to be self-controlled, pure, working at home, kind, and submissive to their own husbands.” I think it’s generally accepted that most women are nurturers. From a young age, we love puppies, kiƩens and all things miniature. Some of us got a huge dose of that, others had to dig a liƩle deeper to find our porƟon. But nurturing, in general, seems to be in our DNA. It might make us wonder why older women would need to train younger women to love the people in their life — doesn’t it come nat- urally? Well, some of it does, but our love oŌen needs guidance. For example, * what would you say to the young mother who has never said ’no’ to her toddler ‘because she loves her too much’? * What about the young mother who prioriƟzes weekend baseball above Church because ‘she loves to watch Johnny play so much’? Before we go further, I think we need to make clear that Paul is as- suming the younger women in the Church of Crete would have been young wives and mothers. Honestly, there wasn’t any other category of young women in the first century. But there is today. Not every woman in the 21st century marries young and raises a family, and that’s okay. Even the Apostle said, “it is good for them to remain single as I am.” (1 Cor. 7:8) Our passage today should in no way make a woman feel as though marriage and motherhood is the only viable ChrisƟan choice. So, let’s look at these verses with the pretext that the relaƟonal in- strucƟons given to the younger women are for those who are married and raising families. · What might a young mother love that would need to be put on the back burner in order to love her husband and children? Day 3: Younger Women: Love & Nurture

While we Wait — Copyright 2021 — Sue LeBoutillier · List three specific things a woman could do to love her husband that would be a posiƟve witness of her love for Christ. 1. 2. 3. · List three specific things a mother might do to love her children that would be a posiƟve witness of her love for Christ. 1. 2. 3. Now, if you are in the younger woman category, I want to assign you to take those answers above and share them with an older woman. Ask what she thinks of your answers. Ask what her answers are. Write one addiƟonal thing you learned from your conversaƟon: Now, let’s look at the next two virtues listed: self-control and purity. There are a lot of ways to apply these in our lives; but let’s assume they are listed here in the context of the ChrisƟan family. · Define self-control (Check another translaƟon as well): · What would be the opposite?

While we Wait — Copyright 2021 — Sue LeBoutillier · Define pure (Check another translaƟon as well): · What would be the opposite? · It’s obvious these are character traits desired for all ChrisƟans. But what are some ways that young women might specifically struggle in both of these areas? · How might an older woman help in exposing any weak spots and then forƟfying those character traits? Give yourself an honest leƩer-grade on self-control _________ · In what areas of your life do you need the Holy Spirit’s order? Give yourself an honest leƩer-grade on purity _________ · In what areas do you need to make changes with God’s help?

While we Wait — Copyright 2021 — Sue LeBoutillier Titus 2:5 “...working at home, kind, and submissive to their own husbands, that the word of God might not be reviled.” Not only are most women natural nurturers, I think women also tend to be more aware of their space. I guess you’ll find the occasional boy who decorates his room, but far and away, it’s the girls who find enjoyment in feathering their nest — for their own enjoyment as well as for others. A stable home isn’t about the size of the house, the quality of the furnishings, or the dust-free surfaces. It’s the love and kindness and hope that spring from the Gospel. These things take root in children raised in homes where a woman is passionate about her people and the space they share! · Look up the phrase the ESV translates ‘working at home’ in a couple of translaƟons and write a few of your findings here: · How do these phrases inspire you to maximize the potenƟal of your home? · What distracƟons keep you from being busy at home? · What can cause you to be lazy at home? Day 4: Younger Women: Home & Character

While we Wait — Copyright 2021 — Sue LeBoutillier The presence of kindness might be the single most disƟnguishing factor between a good home and a great home. How would you grade yourself on kindness? ____ Read these passages and jot down what inspires you: Proverbs 21:19, 21 — Proverbs 31:26-27 — Zechariah 7:9-10 — Ephesians 4:30-32 — If a woman has a short fuse, there’s a good chance that kind words will not be the first thing from her lips — especially with her children. This is tragic because children need kind words for emoƟonal stability. · If this is an area that needs aƩenƟon in your life, confess your shortcoming, yield yourself to God’s Holy Spirit, and write down specific acƟons you believe He would have you take. · If you have conquered a bad habit like this, then allow yourself to be transparent so you can train someone younger in the Lord. Pray about how the Lord would have you do that. The final habit that younger women should be trained in is a sub- missive aƫtude toward their own husband. I think this is the most difficult of all the virtues to teach in our generaƟon. Our culture has convinced us that ranking under another person means we are inferior to them, so we naturally dig in our heels because of the perceived threat to equality. But no such threat exists. · According to v.5, to whom is a wife to submit? · What is the reason for this submission (v.5)?

While we Wait — Copyright 2021 — Sue LeBoutillier Read Ephesians 5:22-33. Based on that text, · How does a wife display the Gospel in her submission? · How does the husband display the Gospel in his sacrifice? · Explain how the word of God might be reviled if either of them shrink from their God-given role in the marriage relaƟonship: · How might the Word of God have been reviled on Crete by marriages that were out of God’s order? Biblical submission is not blind obedience. The assumed context is a covenant relaƟonship between a man and woman who have surren- dered their lives to the Lordship of Jesus Christ. · Can a woman be, or should she be submissive to an unbelieving husband? (use Scripture in your answer) · Discuss in your groups what submission does and does not in- clude in the areas of: disagreements, pornography, concealing illegal acƟvity, how to spend money, parenƟng, inƟmacy. If you are married, circle how effecƟve you think you have been in this area recently 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 (1 is least, 10 is most) Ask your husband the same quesƟon and put a square over his re- sponse. Whether you are single or married, which of the virtues in these vers- es do you believe the Lord would have you focus on improving? Why?

While we Wait — Copyright 2021 — Sue LeBoutillier ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ Notes from Teaching on Titus 2:3-5 —

While we Wait — Copyright 2021 — Sue LeBoutillier The pivot-point of a teeter-toƩer is called the fulcrum — the planks balance from that center point. The fulcrum of this leƩer is the word for in v.11. The verses before that point lay out our duty as ChrisƟans; the verses aŌer describe our doctrine, the reason for our duty. Unless both doctrine and duty are held in tension, we can come down hard like an ill-balanced teeter-toƩer. So be thinking of these two planks of ChrisƟan living, as you read the passage today. a READ Titus 2:1-15 & WRITE Titus 2:11-12 in your journal · Put sunrays over the word appeared. Usually, in the Apostle Paul’s leƩers, he first expressed the doctrine of the Gospel followed by inspiraƟon for duty — how we should then live. In this leƩer to Titus, the order is reversed — duty is described first followed by doctrine. We’ve already studied the very pracƟcal applica- Ɵons of our duty for Godly living, so now we’ll consider the reason. · What does Paul say has appeared in v.11a? · What does the grace of God mean in this verse? · What was the purpose for Christ’s appearing (v.11b)? · What does salvaƟon mean (Also read Ephesians 2:4-5)? · As you read v.11 and go right into 12a, what do you see that should come right on the heels of salvaƟon? Doctrine & Duty — Titus 2:11-15, 3:1-3 Week 5 — Day 1:

While we Wait — Copyright 2021 — Sue LeBoutillier · Define ungodliness — Give some specific examples: · Define worldly passions — Give some specific examples: · Once a person has received salvaƟon (by the grace of God) and has renounced ungodliness and worldly passions, what does v.12 tell us our lives should be characterized by? Give two specific examples of how that might look: · Is there some worldly passion that you have been clinging to and need to renounce in order to live a more Godly life? Now is the Ɵme to confess that to the Lord and ask for His grace to work in your life. And now, little children, abide in him, so that when he appears we may have confidence and not shrink from him in shame at his coming. — 1 John 2:28 (ESV)

While we Wait — Copyright 2021 — Sue LeBoutillier a READ Titus 2:11-15 & WRITE Titus 2:13-15 in your journal. · Put sunrays over the word appearing. · Put a large “W” over the phrase good works. Paul used the phrase, ‘the present age’ (v.12). Every ChrisƟan is living in the present age — between the two appearings that you marked in your journal — the appearing of God’s son, Jesus Christ that brought salvaƟon (which we can look back on) and His next appearing in His full glory (which we look forward to)! We used a sunray marking because the Greek word, epiphaneia, means the visible appearance of something previously concealed. It was used in classical Greek to mean the dawn or daybreak, ‘when the sun leaps over the horizon into view.’2 In this case, it is the SON who will leap into view! Write the first word from v.13: ________________. This present age — the Church age — is defined by that word. In fact, the subƟtle of this Bible Study is “While we wait...for the blessed hope” (v.13 NIV). · How should waiƟng affect us? What type of people should we be while we wait? There is a great summary at the end of v.14. Write the last four words of the verse here: ________________________________________. Let’s internalize some of these things: · Are you eagerly waiƟng for the return of Jesus — or are you more focused on your own agenda and the things of the world? · If you’re not happy with your honest answer, list two things you believe God would have you do to change your focus: Day 2:

While we Wait — Copyright 2021 — Sue LeBoutillier · Are you zealous for good works that would adorn the Gospel — or are you more aƩracted to hobbies, business, beauty, or food? · If you’re not happy with your answer, list two things you believe God would have you do to change your zeal: Read Romans 6:17-19, 22 and 1 Peter 1:18-19. · How do those verses help explain what it means in v.14 that Jesus ‘gave himself to redeem us from all lawlessness’? · What are the pracƟcal implicaƟons of a ChrisƟan becoming God’s ’own possession’ (v.14)? · What effect should that phrase have on the desire to ‘live my life my own way’? · In v.15, what were the things that Paul said Titus was to declare and exhort? (Use phrases from Scripture) · Where did his authority come from?

While we Wait — Copyright 2021 — Sue LeBoutillier How should ChrisƟans live while we wait? Chapters one and two showed us proper order in the Church, followed by proper order in the home. Now, in chapter three, the theme broadens to include our rela- Ɵonship with society — proper order in dealing with the world. a READ Titus 2:11—3:3 & WRITE Titus 3:1-2 in your journal. · Put a large “W” over the phrase, good work. Paul adheres to a familiar paƩern in this leƩer. à He first explains the duty of a ChrisƟan, we could call it the what. à Then he shows the doctrine of the Gospel, we could call it the why. Verses 1-2 today will describe what our ChrisƟan ethic should look like toward the world. Verse 3 tomorrow will explain why that is so. · Write the first word in v.1: ______________. What does this imply about their former knowledge of these social duƟes? · What is to be a ChrisƟan’s posture toward rulers and authoriƟes? · What is the Greek word translated submissive? _______________ (Check p.20-21 if you have forgoƩen.) · What does it mean? · In the context of governing authoriƟes, what does it mean to be ready for every good work? Day 3:

While we Wait — Copyright 2021 — Sue LeBoutillier Verse two widens our responsibility from the leaders of our communi- Ɵes to all of society — all of our social connecƟons — public, private, ChrisƟan, and secular. There are four social aƫtudes commanded in order that we might adorn the Gospel by how we behave in our relaƟonships. Write them out below and really think about each one as you write. NegaƟve aƫtudes and acƟons to avoid: · · PosiƟve aƫtudes and acƟons to apply: · · Did you think of someone else who really needed this list? We usually do! Maybe a friend’s social media post came to mind as you wrote, ‘avoid quarreling.’ But these words are for us! We are to be reminded of these things in order to refine our character while we wait. Go back to the list above and print a number from 1-4. 1 = needs most improvement and so on. Then submit this request in prayer to the Ho- ly Spirit, asking His help for more genuine godliness in your relaƟon- ships with others. The Cretan culture was loud and malicious! Many aspects of our culture are the same. · What kind of an influence do you think someone could have on people around them when they actually live out these aƫtudes because they belong to Christ?

While we Wait — Copyright 2021 — Sue LeBoutillier a READ Titus 3:1-7 & WRITE Titus 3:3 in your journal. The doctrine that provides the reason for our duty begins with the verse you just wrote in your journal. The enƟre explanaƟon is given in v.3-7 but we’re only going to dissect v.3 today and leave the mega- sentence that follows for next week. Paul contends that we should show grace and compassion (as noted in v.2) toward other people, who are made in the image of God even if they are very difficult and/or godless people (as noted in v.3). · What is the reason for this (v.3)? · How can recognizing that we all start from a posiƟon of enmity with God help us exhibit the Godly aƫtudes described in v.2? It’s not producƟve to dwell on the past, but if we never glance back at our former condiƟon (v.3), we may be tempted to forget our great need for redempƟon. The Apostle Paul wrote of his former condiƟon oŌen in his leƩers. Read 1 Corinthians 6:9-11, Ephesians 4:17-24, Colossians 3:5-10. · List two of the behaviors in v.3 that could be said of your life and aƫtudes before Christ changed you: Day 4:

While we Wait — Copyright 2021 — Sue LeBoutillier · Explain how you aƩribute a change (if even slightly) in these areas to the work of God in your life. Next week in Titus 3, we’ll study some really great news. But for to- day, can we make an ultra-condensed version of that news? (use ESV) Write the 1st Word in v.4 _______ Write the 1st 3 words in v.5 _______ __________ _____ Write the 1st 2 words in v.7 _______ _______ Complete the middle of v.7 we might become ________ God’s kids (heirs) have been equipped by the Holy Spirit to display the opposite characterisƟcs of the unregenerate life that are listed in v.3. List behaviors you see in v.3 and give the opposite aƫtude that ac- cords with Godliness: (for example) Instead of foolish — sensible Instead of disobedient — submissive Do all things without grumbling or disputing, that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world. Philippians 2:14-15 (ESV)

While we Wait — Copyright 2021 — Sue LeBoutillier Questions for Thought & Discussion 1. Because criƟcs of ChrisƟanity mock the second coming of Christ, some Churches just don’t talk about it much. Why is it such an important pillar of our faith, and why should it be a focus for us? 2. How does waiƟng for Jesus to appear moƟvate you to live a more Godly life in this present age? 3. Give an example of a worldly passion that has been allowed to flourish within the modern Church — maybe even ChrisƟanized? 4. V.15 instructed Titus to declare, exhort and rebuke with regard to the things Paul shared. How can the Church go about puƫng this into pracƟce? 5. Why is it important for pastors/elders to be willing to do the above? 6. Envision the enƟre spectrum of obeying authoriƟes — from blind obedience to every request (even sinful acƟviƟes) — to open rebellion toward every law. How do you think a ChrisƟan should balance that scale?

While we Wait — Copyright 2021 — Sue LeBoutillier ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ Notes from Teaching on Titus 2:11-15, 3:1-3 —

While we Wait — Copyright 2021 — Sue LeBoutillier a READ Titus 3:1-15 & WRITE Titus 3:4-7 in your journal. · Put sunrays over the word appearing. · Put a large “W” over the word works. · Put a large “M” over the word mercy. I’m one of those rare people who enjoys change. My husband has goƩen used to finding his favorite chair in different corners of the living room. Because the first word in our text this week is but, it’s a sure signal that something has changed or is about to change. Change is the foundaƟonal message of the Gospel — God takes something broken and corrupted and turns it into something precious! · Explain the change expressed between v.3 and today’s passage: · You marked this change with sunrays in your journal. Change was made possible (v.4) when what appeared? · You marked the word works, in v.5, with a “W”. What role do works play in a person’s salvaƟon? · You marked the word mercy, in v.5, with an “M” (which is verƟcal- ly opposite of “W”). What role does mercy play in a person’s salva- Ɵon? Week 6 — Day 1: Devoted to Good Works — Titus 3:4-15

While we Wait — Copyright 2021 — Sue LeBoutillier Read John 3:3-8, 1 Corinthians 6:11, Ephesians 5:25-26. Explain what you discover about the washing of regeneraƟon and renewal of the Holy Spirit. · What adverb in v.6 describes how the Holy Spirit has been poured out on us? ______________. What does that tell you about how God relates to you? · As a ChrisƟan, you’ve been renewed by the Holy Spirit (v.4-7). How should this impact those behaviors that might linger in your life as described in v.3? · Read Ephesians 1:13-14. What is our assurance or our guarantee that we have truly become an heir? · Today’s verses are an excellent summary of the Gospel message. Since this leƩer was wriƩen to Titus (obviously a born-again ChrisƟan), why do you think Paul included a passage such as this? Didn’t he already know all about the Gospel?

While we Wait — Copyright 2021 — Sue LeBoutillier a READ Titus 3:1-15 & WRITE Titus 3:8-9 in your journal. · Put a large “W” over the word works. · Bracket the contrasƟng words, insist and avoid. · Mark excellent and profitable with an up arrow. h · Mark unprofitable and worthless with a down arrow. i · Explain the saying that is trustworthy. · What are the things that Titus is to insist on and why? Fill in these important words from v.8: “careful to _________________ themselves to _________ ________” Do you agree or disagree with this statement and why? “Good works can never be the basis for salvaƟon, but they may be the proof of sal- vaƟon” · Read 1 Timothy 5:9-10. Why do you think Paul set the require- ment that widows be cared for by the Church only if they are well known for their good deeds? · What are the four things listed in v.9 that Titus was to avoid? · Why do you think that is good advice for all ChrisƟans? Day 2:

While we Wait — Copyright 2021 — Sue LeBoutillier · Explain in one sentence the contrast between what a Pastor should insist on and what he should avoid. · What are some of the foolish controversies of our day (or conspir- acy theories) that cause trouble in the Church? · READ 1 Timothy 6:3-5. Why do you think some have an unhealthy aƩracƟon to controversies and quarrels? a READ Titus 3:1-15 & WRITE Titus 3:10-11 in your journal. If someone sƟrred up trouble or division, Paul gave a three-step plan for relaƟng to them. List the steps: 1. 2. 3. · Why is that course of acƟon reasonable? · In what other applicaƟons could you use that three-step plan? · How does v.11 describe the characterisƟcs of people who sƟr up trouble? Day 3:

While we Wait — Copyright 2021 — Sue LeBoutillier · These final verses are certainly aimed at protecƟng the unity with- in the Church Body. Why are divisions within the Church so unde- sirable? What is the outcome of division between friends? · What can a Church, or even a small group (like a Bible Study), do to proacƟvely protect from the division caused by controversies? a READ Titus 3:1-15 & WRITE Titus 3:12-15 in your journal. · Put a large “W” over the word works. Titus had a big job on Crete and the ministry was complex. As we read today’s passage, it becomes clear that he couldn’t just up and leave without a replacement to conƟnue the work among the Churches. · What was Paul’s plan to relieve Titus in order for him to make a visit? · What can you infer from v.12-13 about Paul’s ministry relaƟon- ships? Day 4:

While we Wait — Copyright 2021 — Sue LeBoutillier · What were three points of importance Paul wanted the believers to learn to put into acƟon from v.14? 1. 2. 3. Those three phrases are all related to one another. · Explain how someone who lives a life devoted to good works will be ready to help when an urgent need arises. · Explain the difficulty someone would have in a Ɵme of urgent need when they have lived in their own bubble and not devoted themselves to good works. While We Wait was the Ɵtled I chose for this Bible study but a more complete Ɵtle might be, Zealous for Good Works While We Wait. That is the main point and final takeaway from studying this book. · What has God spoken to you about the good works that He has prepared for you? · What verse, secƟon or phrase made a big impact on you through this study? In what way? Everything we do is saturated in God’s grace. As a farewell, write the final five words from this leƩer:

While we Wait — Copyright 2021 — Sue LeBoutillier Questions for Thought & Discussion 1. How have others in the Body of Christ inspired you to be devoted to good works? 2. What would you say are two of the biggest hindrances in your de- voƟon to the good works God has intended for you? 3. Is v.9 indicaƟng that all theological debates are inappropriate in the Church? How are we to apply this verse? 4. Some may read the last phrase of 3:2 and the last phrase of 3:10 as contradicƟons. How would you explain the difference in how we should relate to people, based on those two verses? 5. Have you been convicted to subject yourself to authority in some area where you have held back? 6. Of all the advice Paul gives in this book for Godly living, name one area that has become a focus for greater surrender to the Lord and maturity.

While we Wait — Copyright 2021 — Sue LeBoutillier ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ Notes from Teaching on Titus 3:4-15 —

While we Wait — Copyright 2021 — Sue LeBoutillier RĊċĊėĊēĈĊĘ Scripture quotaƟons from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. 1— Calvin, John. As quoted in The Message of 1 Timothy & Titus: The life of the local church. Downers Grove, IL: IVP Academic, 1996. WORDsearch CROSS e-book. 2— StoƩ, John. The Message of 1 Timothy & Titus: The life of the local church. Downers Grove, IL: IVP Academic, 1996. WORDsearch CROSS e-book. Map on p.5 hƩps://www.ccel.org/bible/phillips/CN092MAPS1.htm

While we Wait — Copyright 2021 — Sue LeBoutillier Women of the Word Bible Studies The following WOW Bible Studies wriƩen by Sue LeBouƟllier are available through the Calvary Chapel Ontario bookstore, and through our online store at www.ccontario.com. Old Testament: · Genesis—Divine Design, From Eden to Egypt · Exodus—Divine Deliverance, From Egypt to Sinai · Numbers—The Wilderness Way, From Sinai to the Jordan · Joshua —The Path of Promise, From the Jordan into Canaan · Judges — A Time of Turning · Ruth—Rescue and Rest · 1 Samuel — The Coming King · 2 Samuel — The Reigning King · 1&2 Kings (Part One)— Solomon and the House of the Lord · Jonah—The Call of Compassion New Testament: · The Way of Jesus —The Sermon on the Mount (MaƩhew) · Simply Jesus—The “I AMs” of Christ (John) · Acts—Walking in the Spirit, The First Days of the Last Days · GalaƟans—Finding Grace in a Demanding World · Philippians—Finding Joy in a Disjointed World · Colossians—Finding Stability in a Changing World · Titus—While We Wait · James—Real Faith for Daily Life · 1 & 2 Peter—Hope, Holiness and Humility in a HosƟle World · 1,2,3 John—Light, Love and Logic