Hi friends! I'm really excited for today as we will be studying the Epistle to Titus. Why is that exciting? Well, my guess is that many of you didn't even know this was a book in the Bible! Titus is a largely ignored epistle because it only has one week in the lectionary (scriptures recommended to be preached on each week) and it shares that week with some of the most beloved Christmas scriptures. For that reason I don't think anyone preaches Titus. So, I think for many of you this will be completely uncharted territory which is some of the best ground for study! Titus was a historical figure in the church and was first mentioned as being a student of Paul's in Galatians. He would eventually be tasked to stay on the island of Crete (as mentioned in this reading) to establish and lead the church where he would be promoted to Bishop before his death. Titus is one of the recognized saints of the Catholic Church. So my great Bible adventures let's open our minds and spirits to revelations of God.
Scripture to Read
Psalm 23 (Always a beloved reading, amen?)
Audio Bible
Questions to Consider
What is the main point or theme of Titus? Why do you think this was included in the final canon?
The content is very similar to 1 Timothy with themes of raising good leadership, sound theology, and good Christian practices. What is similar and what is different?
Let's see what the Bible Project can teach us today!
Praying the Hymns
Our prayer for today is inspired by hymn 333 in our hymnals - I'm goin' to Sing When the Spirit Says Sing. This is one of the afro-spiritual hymns in our hymnal so expect some energy and gospel undertones. It's fun, it's vibrant, and it feels full of LIFE. In a time of a pandemic we could all use a little music like that.
(While this features an additional song I felt it important to feature a black led choir rather than a white choir to honor the history (and frankly energy) of the hymn. Enjoy!)
1 I'm goin'-a sing when the Spirit says sing,
I'm goin'-a sing when the Spirit says sing,
I'm goin'-a sing when the Spirit says sing,
and obey the Spirit of the Lord.
1 I'm goin'-a pray when the Spirit says pray,
I'm goin'-a pray when the Spirit says pray,
I'm goin'-a pray when the Spirit says pray,
and obey the Spirit of the Lord.
1 I'm goin'-a moan when the Spirit says moan,
I'm goin'-a moan when the Spirit says moan,
I'm goin'-a moan when the Spirit says moan,
and obey the Spirit of the Lord.
1 I'm goin'-a shout when the Spirit says shout, I'm goin'-a shout when the Spirit says shout, I'm goin'-a shout when the Spirit says shout, and obey the Spirit of the Lord.