Studying Paul’s Letter to Titus.

In a society that no longer (and rightfully so) sees slavery as an acceptable endeavour, how do we glean from passages of Scripture that reference slavery? How do we benefit from instructions to slaves?

Well, today we’ll see how Paul’s instruction to slaves builds character in the workplace.

Our church has worked through a preaching series on the small, yet theology packed book of Titus. As our church walks through this series, feel free to download our podcast or bookmark the sermon audio or video at whbc.ca/sermons.

Furthermore, below you’ll find some study questions that you could use in your personal devotional time or as small group material.

Titus 2:9-15

“9 Teach slaves to be subject to their masters in everything, to try to please them, not to talk back to them, 10 and not to steal from them, but to show that they can be fully trusted, so that in every way they will make the teaching about God our Savior attractive.

11 For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. 12 It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, 13 while we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, 14 who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good.

15 These, then, are the things you should teach. Encourage and rebuke with all authority. Do not let anyone despise you.“

Study Questions:

1. What are you initial thoughts or feelings about this passage or the message?
2. Slavery is not something that we have in today’s Western society. How can work parallel? Can you think of a job or work environment where you felt like a slave, or at least not valued as an employee?
3. Even if we have great jobs and great employers, what can we learn from Paul’s instruction in this passage?
4. At your place of employment, do people know that you’re a Christian? How do you show Christ in your workplace?
5. Francis of Assisi once said, “Preach the Gospel at all times and when necessary use words.” What does this quote mean to you? How does it look it the workplace? How does it look in our homes?
6. Verse 12 through 14 gives some direct instruction. Which one is the most convicting for you and why?
7. In our Western church, what does verse 15 look like? How do we teach, encourage and/or rebuke these things?

Join the Conversation, Leave Your Thoughts

Are you mistreated or disrespected in your place of employment? If so, how do you maintain Christ-like character within such a difficult environment?