Transformed – teen devotion – July 14, 2024

One truth shared: Jesus owns all ministry. He gives us the authority to serve others with the gospel. His love shapes our character to reflect him. Our Godly character gives evidence that we serve with his authority. 

The reason I left you in Crete was that you might put in order what was left unfinished and appoint elders in every town, as I directed you. An elder must be blameless, faithful to his wife, a man whose children believe and are not open to the charge of being wild and disobedient. Since an overseer manages God’s household, he must be blameless—not overbearing, not quick-tempered, not given to drunkenness, not violent, not pursuing dishonest gain. Rather, he must be hospitable, one who loves what is good, who is self-controlled, upright, holy and disciplined. He must hold firmly to the trustworthy message as it has been taught, so that he can encourage others by sound doctrine and refute those who oppose it. 

Titus 1:5-9

Sent with God’s Own Authority

“What gives you the right?!?”

Has anyone ever said these words to you? More like…has anyone ever YELLED these words at you?

Authority is a touchy subject in our society. People don’t like it when someone tells them what to do.

Maybe it’s your sibling, or your friend. They know your flaws. They know you aren’t perfect. So who are YOU to tell THEM to do ANYTHING?

One of the most important truths when it comes to gospel ministry (service in God’s kingdom using the gospel message) is that all of the ministry belongs to Jesus. And him alone. Jesus is the owner. He calls us to be managers of all that is his.

That’s where we get the “right” or the authority to do ministry. From Jesus, as we do it in his name.

Look at verse 9 in Titus chapter 1- “…hold firmly to the trustworthy message as it has been taught,” When you tell others about Jesus’ words and promises or a command from the Bible, you are telling them GOD’S message, not your own.

Godly character in ministry is also important. Paul’s message in Titus 1 is that our character reflects on the message we are telling others and the ministry we are doing. It reinforces that we have God’s authority.

Love what is good. Speak the truth in love to someone going down a bad path. Encourage others with the gospel.
God gives you the right!

Prayer:
God, remind us that all ministry belongs to you. And, remind us you give us authority to serve others in your name. You give us the right to tell others your law and gospel. Shape our hearts through your love to become more like Jesus’ heart. May our character reflect this awesome authority we have. Open our mouths, that we may declare your praise! In Jesus’ name, and under his authority, we pray. Amen