Bethany Independent Presbyterian Church

Myanmar

WEEKEND PASTORAL LETTER 18 October 2020

WEEKEND PASTORAL LETTER 18 October 2020

 

Dear Brethren,

MEDITATION

But as for you, speak the things which are proper for sound doctrine:
Titus 2:1

 

OBSERVATION AND INTERPRETATION

1. A word of admonition to Titus
a) He was a pastor
b) He was a spiritual son of the Apostle Paul
c) He was being taught how to serve well and effectively

2. Two different types of Training
a) Seminary training
i) Academic
ii) Important
iii) But limited with reference to real-life experience
b) Practical pastoral Ministry
i) The Apostle Paul was a mentor to Titus
ii) Senior pastors must seek to play this role
iii) This will help younger pastors immensely

3. There were no seminaries in the days of Paul
4. Things achieved by Paul
a) Through God’s power
b) By faith

c) Many lessons were learned along the way
d) Paul sought to share these things with Titus
5. The things to focus on in the pastoral ministry
a) Things which are proper
i) The word “proper” means “healthy”
ii) Healthy truths must be proclaimed
b) Unhealthy things
i) These must not be encouraged
ii) Anything that leads to strife must be avoided!
c) Things which are sound doctrine
i) We need to examine what we are teaching
ii) Let us not focus on giving theological views
iii) Let us focus on teaching sound truths!

 

APPLICATION TO LIFE AND MINISTRY
1. To all pastors who are more senior in age
a) Let us help the younger pastors to succeed
b) Pass them good advice
2. To all younger pastors
a) Learn humbly
b) Learn well

May the Lord help us to become faithful and fruitful servants of the Lord!

 

Prayerfully,
Pastor Charles Tan