Dear Brethren,

MEDITATION
9  Exhort bondservants to be obedient to their own masters, to be well pleasing in
all things, not answering back,  10  not pilfering, but showing all good fidelity, that
they may adorn the doctrine of God our Saviour in all things.
Titus 2:9-10

OBSERVATION AND INTERPRETATION

1. Bondservants

a) These were slaves
b) Many of them were former prisoners of war
c) These were made slaves and sold throughout the Roman Empire
d) They were not paid for their labour
e) They had a very hard life

i) They could be beaten by their masters
ii) They could also be sold away

2. Significant advice given to them

a) They were encouraged to serve their masters well
This would have been quite a great challenge for the bondslaves!
b) Good Behaviour

i) To be obedient
ii) To be well-pleasing in all matters of their work
iii) They are not to be insolent to their masters, answering them back
iv) No stealing
v) They must show good faith

c) The doctrine of God

i) The teachings of God would be well-adorned by good behaviour shown
ii) The doctrines were never meant to be mere theory

APPLICATION TO LIFE AND MINISTRY

1. Teachings and Life

a) They are connected
b) They are not meant to be separated

2. Even as servants/ slaves

a) Good behaviour is expected
b) There is no excuse for bad or wicked behaviour

3. Our Challenge as pastors

a) Our lifestyle must reflect our faith in God
b) Our way of life must adorn the teachings of God

i) The teachings of God must become beautiful through our lifestyle
ii) People would be drawn to God when we live out our faith in ministry

4. Improving our lifestyle

a) Let us ponder how the Lord Jesus lived
b) Let us also consider the examples of good servants of God
c) Let us be moved to live very well for the glory of God
d) Our ministry would be that much more enhanced when we are able to live out what we preach and teach

Prayerfully,
Pastor Charles Tan