Why is it important to "refute those who contradict" biblical teachings? Setting the Scene in Titus 1:9 “He must hold firmly to the trustworthy word as it was taught, so that he can give instruction in sound doctrine and refute those who contradict it.” The Dual Calling in the Verse • Hold the Word tightly • Use it both to encourage believers and to refute error One calling cannot be fulfilled without the other; protecting truth and exposing error are inseparable parts of shepherding God’s people. Why Refutation Matters 1. Protection of the Flock • Acts 20:29-30—false teachers “will not spare the flock.” • Refuting error keeps believers from being “tossed by the waves” (Ephesians 4:14). 2. Purity of the Gospel • Galatians 1:8-9 warns against “another gospel.” • Even small distortions corrode the good news that saves (Romans 1:16). 3. Faithfulness to Christ’s Command • 2 Timothy 4:2—“preach the word… rebuke” is in the same breath as “encourage.” • Jude 3-4 urges believers to “contend for the faith” because ungodly people “pervert” grace. 4. Rescue of the Deceived • James 5:19-20—turning a wanderer back “saves his soul from death.” • Clear refutation opens eyes (2 Corinthians 4:2-4). 5. Witness to the World • A clear line between truth and error displays the holiness of God (1 Peter 2:9). • Silence implies consent and confuses seekers. Biblical Snapshots of Courageous Refutation • Jesus vs. the Pharisees’ traditions (Mark 7:6-13) • Paul confronting Peter’s hypocrisy (Galatians 2:11-14) • Apollos “vigorously refuted the Jews in public debate” (Acts 18:28) Heart Posture While Refuting • Humility—remembering we too were once deceived (Titus 3:3). • Gentleness and respect (1 Peter 3:15). • Reliance on Scripture, not personal cleverness (Proverbs 30:5-6). • Love for both the sheep and the straying teacher (2 Timothy 2:24-26). Practical Ways to Obey Today • Know the Word—daily intake, study groups, memorization (Psalm 119:11). • Speak up in small settings—home groups, classrooms, online discussions—when error surfaces. • Equip others: share solid resources, recommend faithful teaching, model discernment. • Guard the pulpit—church leaders must screen guest speakers, curricula, and media. The Fruit When Truth Is Protected • A stable, maturing church (Colossians 1:28). • A clear, compelling witness to unbelievers (John 13:35 linked with John 17:17). • Joy and assurance for believers who rest in sound doctrine (Philippians 1:25). Holding fast to the trustworthy word and lovingly refuting contradiction guard the glory of Christ, the health of His people, and the advance of His gospel—exactly what Titus 1:9 calls us to do. |
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