Scripture References: 2 Corinthians 8:16-24; Galatians 2:1-3; Titus 1:1-5; John 10:11-13; Philippians 2:3-8
Intro: Welcome. Today's sermon looks at Christian growth and maturity through the life of Titus, a key figure alongside the Apostle Paul. How does someone go from relative obscurity to becoming a trusted leader with significant kingdom impact? Titus's journey reveals distinct phases applicable to our own growth in faith and service.
Key Points:
- Phase 1: Showing Up (The "Tag-Along") (Gal 2:1-3): Titus first appears almost as an afterthought – "I took Titus along also." He accompanied Paul to the critical, potentially uncomfortable Jerusalem council meeting about circumcision. Maturity begins here: consistently showing up, being present in the community of faith, even when your role isn't clear, recognized, or immediately beneficial. Hungry people show up; picky people stay put.
- Phase 2: Serving (Costly Obedience): Titus moved beyond just being present to actively serving. He undertook difficult tasks, like delivering Paul's "severe letter" to the troubled Corinthian church, putting his own reputation on the line. Serving, especially when unpopular or costly, combats selfishness and builds character. It requires dying to self.
- Phase 3: Owning (Earnest Care) (2 Cor 8:16-17; Titus 1:5): Paul celebrates that God put the same earnest care for the Corinthians into Titus' heart. Titus wasn't just following orders; he acted "of his own accord," taking personal responsibility. This contrasts with a "hired hand" mentality that flees when ministry gets tough (John 10:12-13). True maturity involves owning the mission and caring deeply for God's people, like David facing Goliath or Nehemiah rebuilding the wall because they cared.
- Care as Key: Often, God-given care for people or a situation precedes or defines our calling more than specific gifting. As we grow, God replaces self-interest with His heart for others.
Conclusion: Growth into mature, impactful Christian life follows a path: consistently showing up, engaging in service (even when costly), and ultimately taking ownership fueled by genuine, God-given care. This "Titus Track" moves us from passive presence to active, responsible participation in God's mission.
Call to Action: Where are you on the Titus Track? Are you consistently showing up? Are you actively serving? Have you taken ownership and developed deep care for the ministry/people God has placed around you? Ask God to move you forward. If you sense His invitation to show up more faithfully, serve more actively, or own ministry more deeply, respond to Him today.
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