But as for you, speak the things which are fitting for sound doctrine.
— Titus 2:1—
Enrique Godoy Castillon: Word of Grace Biblical Seminary | Mexico
In this letter, Paul instructs his disciple and co-laborer, Titus, to correct the wrong doctrines and practices that had crept into the churches of Crete. First, Titus was to establish elders (Titus 1:5). These qualified men (Titus 1:6–9) were essential to the work, because they were to hold “fast the faithful word” (Titus 1:9). The same need exists today in every church. It is necessary for the church to have biblically qualified men who teach sound doctrine and counter false teaching. Sound doctrine guards us from error. It produces true, spiritual growth in our lives. Sound doctrine is healthy and needful for churches; false teaching is fatal (2 Tim. 4:3). There is never any shortage of false teaching and error. Dangerous doctrines and erroneous interpretations assault the church on a daily basis. Therefore, Paul soberly addresses Titus: “But as for you”—in contrast with false teachers—“speak the things which are fitting for sound doctrine.” Doctrine that is sound means that it is without pollution. It is truth that is effectively taught and correctly interpreted, bringing health and nourishment to Christ’s church. We must never overlook the importance of sound doctrine, of careful and meticulous interpretation of God’s word, of efforts to get it right and cut it straight. Sound doctrine guards us from error. It produces true, spiritual growth in our lives. May we never disregard those faithful and qualified men whom God has called to preach His word and speak the truth. Let others have their ears tickled, if they must, but let us pursue the hard truths that are fitting for sound doctrine.
