There are groups and professions that we might think ill of due to bad experiences we have had. Classically lawyers and used car salesmen are high on that list. We might all have other professions we would add to the list. There are some that would add religious people to the list. It’s not hard to see why. Many have been hurt by the words and actions of people supposedly behaving on behalf of God. Did you know that there is a lot of instruction in the New Testament that would help us avoid or mitigate that stigma?
In writing to Titus, Paul addresses several societal groups with specific instructions about behavior (Titus 2:1-10). To Titus he specifically mentions that his speech needs to be “fitting” of the healthy teaching of the Bible (2:1). To the older men he prescribes temperance, dignity, sensibility (2:2). To the older women he advises reverence, not to gossip, to teach what is good and encourage the younger (2:3). To the young women he counsels to love their families, be sensible, and pure (2:4). The young men he charges to be sensible, good examples with good deeds, and pure (2:5). To the bondslaves he instructs to be subject, not argumentative, and not pilfering (2:6).
Throughout this section of Scripture, we are given several reasons why this behavior should be put into practice. “So that the word of God will not be dishonored” and “so that the opponent will be put to shame, having nothing bad to say about us” (2:5, 8). There is another reason listed by Paul. He says, “so that they will adorn the doctrine of God our Savior in every respect” (2:10). The imagery of adorning the doctrine of Christ is interesting. It has the idea that those who practice these things decorate or cause one to look favorably on the doctrine of the N.T. How would one do that?
Here are some things not to do with the doctrine. We should not add to it or take away from it (Rev. 22:18-19). We should not compromise on the teaching in any way (Gal. 1:6-7), like living a “Sunday only” type of Christianity. It should guide our conduct in all things. There are some things we can do to adorn the doctrine we have been entrusted with. Remember that we are a royal priesthood (1 Pet. 2:9). Live as though our lives are a sacrifice to God (Rom. 12:1-2). Be doers of the word (Jas. 1:22). People need to be able to see good examples (1 Pet. 2:21).
As we think about this concept, we need to remember the influence we have on people. They should leave our presence speaking well of the church and Christ. If we have done anything that would be a stumbling block for one to come to Christ, then Christ says woe unto us (Luke 17:1-2).