Introduction

Who is Titus?

Follower of Jesus and trusted partner of Paul

• 2 Corinthians 2:13

• 2 Corinthians 7:6

• 2 Corinthians 8:23

• Titus 1:5

• 2 Timothy 4:10

Where is this church and how did it start?

Crete - Titus 1:5

First believers of Crete

• Acts 2:11

• Acts 2:14

• Acts 2:41

• Titus 1:12-13

• Titus 3:12

Why send the letter?

The testimony of the church matters.

• Titus 1:5

• Titus 1:16

• Titus 2:1

• Titus 2:13

• 1 Corinthians 9:22-23

Warmup

When you think of a trustworthy friend or partner, what qualities come to mind? Who has been that kind of person for you?

Sermon Questions

Who Was Titus?

Read: Titus 1:1–5; 2 Corinthians 7:6; 8:23

How do these passages describe Titus’ relationship with Paul?

What does it mean that Paul calls Titus his “partner and coworker”?

Why do you think Paul chose Titus for the difficult assignment of leading the church in Crete?

The Church in Crete

Read: Titus 1:5; Acts 2:11, 41; Titus 1:12–13

What do we learn about the culture of Crete? How might this have challenged the new church?

How do you think being in a tough culture affects the way a church lives out its testimony?

What similarities do you see between Crete and our culture today?

Why This Letter Matters

Read: Titus 1:16; 2:1, 13; 1 Corinthians 9:22–23

Paul is concerned that the church’s beliefs and behavior match. Why is this so important for the Gospel’s witness?

In what ways does our church’s testimony (or your family’s) either strengthen or weaken the message of the Gospel?

What is one step you can take this week to help your life line up more closely with the hope of the Gospel?

Wrap-Up & Prayer

Key Takeaway: The Gospel message isn’t just something we believe; it's something that transforms us into Jesus' very own people (2:14) and it’s something we display together as a church. Like Titus, we are called to live faithfully as Jesus' very own people!

Prayer Prompt:

Thank God for faithful partners in the Gospel.

Ask God to make our church/family a strong testimony of His grace.

Pray for courage to live out the hope of Jesus in your daily life.