What role does preaching play in manifesting God's word, according to Titus 1:3? The Setting in Titus 1:3 - “In His own time He has revealed His word in the proclamation entrusted to me by the command of God our Savior.” (Titus 1:3) - Paul presents a chain of divine action: • God’s eternal promise (v. 2) • God’s chosen moment (“in His own time”) • God’s method (“the proclamation”) • God’s mandate (“entrusted to me by the command of God our Savior”) Manifesting the Word Through Preaching - “Revealed” (or “manifested”) means to make visible, bring into open view. - Preaching is the appointed vehicle that moves God’s previously hidden plan into public hearing. - The gospel stays concealed until someone announces it; proclamation turns eternal truth into present reality. Why God Chooses Preaching - It centers on His initiative, not human creativity. - It keeps the messenger accountable; the word is “entrusted,” implying stewardship. - It upholds divine authority; the command comes “from God our Savior,” leaving no room for neglect or alteration. Key Characteristics of God-Ordained Preaching - Timely: delivered “in His own time,” matching God’s redemptive schedule. - Authoritative: rests on a direct “command,” not personal opinion. - Christ-focused: springs from “God our Savior,” pointing hearers to salvation in Jesus. - Transformative: by revealing the word, it births faith and godliness in listeners. Reinforcing Scriptures - 1 Corinthians 1:21 – “God was pleased through the foolishness of what was preached to save those who believe.” - Romans 10:14-17 – Hearing the word through a preacher is the pathway to faith; “faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ.” - 2 Timothy 4:1-2 – “Preach the word… in season and out of season,” echoing Titus 1:3’s timely mandate. - Acts 10:42 – The apostles were “commanded… to preach,” mirroring Paul’s entrusted commission. - 1 Thessalonians 2:13 – The preached word works “effectively” in believers, confirming its manifesting power. Living Out the Truth - Receive preaching as God’s appointed disclosure of His eternal promise. - Measure sermons by their faithfulness to the revealed word, not by style alone. - Support and participate in gospel proclamation, knowing God has linked the manifestation of His word to this means. |
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