La predicación de Joel Coyoc, centrada en Tito 1:12-13, profundiza en la importancia de la fidelidad a la doctrina y el rol del anciano como "retenedor de la palabra fiel". Coyoc argumenta que un anciano no solo debe retener la enseñanza bíblica, sino hacerlo tal como ha sido enseñada, enfatizando que el contexto cultural de Creta, conocido por su tendencia a la mentira, exige líderes que predican la verdad sin adulteraciones. Referencias a versículos como Romanos 1:25 y 2 Tesalonicenses 2:10-12 subrayan la crítica a la falsedad y la importancia del amor por la verdad para la salvación. La relevancia de esta enseñanza se manifiesta en la necesidad de que los creyentes, y en particular los ancianos, se adhieran a las Escrituras para contrarrestar el deslizamiento cultural hacia la deshonestidad y la corrupción.
Key Quotes
“Un anciano ha de ser aferrado a la palabra fiel. La autoridad en la iglesia es la palabra, es sola escritura.”
“La verdad es que Dios ve más pecado en nuestras mejores obras que el que nosotros vemos en nuestras peores obras.”
“La necesidad del hombre es conocer a Dios, pero no hay hombre sobre esta tierra que no conozca a Dios.”
“Amar la verdad es amar la palabra de Dios.”
The Bible describes elders as those who must hold fast to the faithful word as taught.
In Titus 1:7-9, the apostle Paul outlines the qualifications for elders, emphasizing that they must be blameless and diligent in holding firm to the trustworthy word. This is crucial because elders are responsible for teaching sound doctrine and refuting those who contradict it. The fidelity of an elder to the Scriptures ensures that the church remains grounded in the truth, especially in a culture prone to false teachings. An elder must also display moral integrity and leadership, serving as an example to the congregation.
Titus 1:7-9
The Bible teaches that elders must hold fast to the faithful word as taught to them.
In Titus 1:9, Paul instructs that an elder must be 'holding fast the faithful word as he has been taught, that he may be able, by sound doctrine, both to exhort and convict those who contradict.' This emphasizes that elders are not only to retain Scripture but also to teach it accurately, correcting false teachings that arise within the church. By doing so, they ensure the congregation is grounded in the truth of God's word, which is essential for healthy spiritual growth and protection against error.
Titus 1:9
The doctrine of predestination is confirmed by Scripture that teaches God's sovereign choice.
Scriptural support for predestination is found in passages like Ephesians 1:4-5, which states that God chose us in Him before the foundation of the world. This underscores the sovereign grace of God in salvation, indicating that our standing before Him is not based on our merit but on His purpose and grace. Additionally, Romans 8:29-30 refers to those whom He foreknew, predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son. Thus, predestination reflects God's eternal plan and assures Believers of their security in faith, highlighting His control over all things.
Ephesians 1:4-5, Romans 8:29-30
The doctrine of election is supported in Scripture, affirming that God chose His people before the foundation of the world.
The doctrine of election is rooted in passages such as Ephesians 1:4-5, which states that God chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before Him in love. This teaching reflects God's sovereignty in salvation, indicating that it is not based on our merits or decisions but solely on His grace and purpose. The assurance that our names are written in the Book of Life from before creation provides comfort as it highlights God's eternal plan and unchanging nature, against the backdrop of human uncertainty about salvation.
Ephesians 1:4-5
Holding onto the truth is essential for spiritual health and combating false teachings.
In Titus 1:12-13, Paul emphasizes the need for elders to be retainers of the faithful word to counteract false teachings. The importance of truth in the church cannot be overstated, as it is the foundation on which the faith of believers stands. Holding onto the truth allows Christians to grow in their faith, properly discern God’s will, and avoid the deceitful tactics of those who would distort the gospel. Without a firm grasp on the truth of Scripture, the church risks being led astray by cultural norms and falsehoods that can infiltrate its teachings.
Titus 1:12-13
Holding fast to the faithful word is crucial for correct teaching and spiritual maturity.
Holding fast to the faithful word is paramount because it ensures that what is taught aligns with biblical truth. In a culture prone to falsehood, as highlighted in Paul's admonition to Titus regarding the Cretans (Titus 1:12), it is vital for church leaders to adhere firmly to sound doctrine. This act of retention not only protects the church from heresy but also fosters spiritual growth among believers. When elders instruct the congregation in the truths of Scripture, they cultivate an environment where faith can flourish, leading to genuine worship and effective witness in the world.
Titus 1:12, Titus 1:9
It means that God's election is secure and His promises are unchanging.
The assurance that God will not erase names from the book of life is based on the understanding of His perfect nature. God promises in Scripture that those He has chosen before the foundation of the world are secure in their salvation. This concept is often explained with the notion that God's pen has no eraser—what He has written is perfect and eternal (Revelation 3:5). This truth alleviates concerns of insecurity in salvation and reveals God's faithful commitment to His elect, who have been called according to His purpose.
Revelation 3:5, Ephesians 1:4
Truth is foundational to the Christian faith as it reflects God's character and His revelation to humanity.
In Christianity, truth is not merely an abstract concept; it is deeply embedded in the character of God Himself. Jesus proclaimed, 'I am the way, the truth, and the life' (John 14:6), underscoring that all truth points to Him. Recognizing the truth of Scripture allows believers to engage in authentic relationship with God, guiding their moral and ethical decisions. Moreover, a love for truth is indicative of an individual's salvation, as reflected in 2 Thessalonians 2:10, where those who do not receive a love for the truth ultimately face deception. Embracing and proclaiming the truth is essential for spiritual health and reflects God's glory in a world marked by lies and confusion.
John 14:6, 2 Thessalonians 2:10
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