We have never had so many ways to communicate, so why do we increasingly live next to each other rather than with each other? This sermon from the letter to Titus (Titus 2) shows how the Gospel transforms ordinary, everyday life: older men, older women, and the younger generation, each has a place in a community where faith is expressed not so much in words as in character. From Polycarp to Susanna Wesley and Corrie ten Boom, these are stories of people whose quiet, faithful lives spoke louder than sermons. Listen and ask yourself what example you are leaving for those who come after you.
Discussion questions
For your small group or for personal reflection after the sermon.
- In Titus 2:1-8 Paul does not start with church structures or programs but with the everyday lives of people from different generations. What does this tell us about what "sound doctrine" really is?
- How do you understand the qualities Paul expects of older men: sober-mindedness, dignity, self-control, and being sound in faith, love and endurance? Which of these is hardest for you right now?
- The sermon said gossip often comes disguised as concern or simply sharing information. How can you tell when talking about someone starts to destroy trust in the community?
- The speaker told the story of Susanna Wesley and of Moody talking with a poor man after a service. Who in your life has taught you more by example than by words, and what exactly did you learn?
- Paul wants opponents to have nothing bad to say about believers. Where do you notice a gap between what you say about your faith and how you actually live day to day?
- Who from a different generation in our community could you spend time with this week in a real conversation, with your phone put away?
