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"But avoid foolish disputes..."

Text: Titus 3:9

THE PROBLEM OF FALSE TEACHINGS

The problem of false teachers afflicted the church in the first century badly. The writing apostles had their hands full dealing with the many forms of false teachings that threatened the church in many ways.

1. The apostles resisted these false teachings (1 Timothy; Titus).

2. They wrote to refute the false assumptions and conclusions (Galatians; Colossians).

3. They exposed the false teachers for who they were (2 Peter; 1 John).

4. They encouraged believers to be steadfast in their faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.

ONE FINAL PIECE OF ADVICE

False teachings kept appearing. If one form is defeated, another form rises up soon after. They were like tares that grew among wheat! The apostle Paul had a final word of advice for Titus.

“But avoid foolish disputes, genealogies, contentions,
and strivings about the law; for they are unprofitable and useless.
Reject a divisive man after the first and second admonition,
knowing that such a person is warped and sinning,
being self-condemned.”
Titus 3:9-11

1. A key word to note: “Avoid”

The following are so clear they hardly need any explanation:-

a) Foolish disputes

b) Genealogies

c) Contentions

d) Strivings about the law

2. Reasons:

a) They are unprofitable.

b) They are useless.

3. Another key word to take note of: “Reject”.

a) A divisive person

b) Counsel (admonition) may be given but the divisive man may well prove to be unrepentant.

4. Reasons why it is wise to cease and desist

a) The person is warped and bent on sinning.

b) He is deemed “self-condemned”.