REASON FOR LIVING. Titus 1:1 This is the only time Paul introduces himself in his epistles as “a servant of God” instead of “a servant of Christ.” His submission to the Supreme Authority of the universe extends to both Gentiles and Jews. His statement as an “apostle of Jesus Christ” emphasizes his authority to speak for the Lord and expect others to recognize that fact. This provides insight into Paul’s perspective and attitude toward life. The goals of his life were to strengthen others' faith by leading them to trust in Christ for salvation and then to remain committed to “the faith” after God saved them.
He begins by proclaiming “the faith” as the body of truth to those chosen in Christ before the foundation of the world. Then, he is committed to guiding them further by “acknowledging (knowing) the truth,” which leads to godliness in life. Those who are “God’s elect” belong to Christ as His people who have put their personal faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.
The faith of believers in Christ aligns with holiness within ourselves and practical godliness, including purity of life, daily conduct in public, and daily life at home. Consistent living enhances the credibility of what a person preaches, teaches, and practices.
Paul was a servant of God endowed with a stewardship to fulfill and an apostleship with a unique mission that no one else could undertake. The purpose of his life and work started with proclaiming the Gospel widely. "The word of faith" was then followed by teaching the knowledge of the truth so that it could be seen in the godly lives of those who received it. Their spiritual growth would give his work meaning. The Jews still tried to mix law and grace and refused to let go of the law as the authority for Christians. Those who preach the Gospel and lead assemblies still need these practices today. The truth of eternal life, "which God that cannot lie," promised, contrasts with what false teachers teach. Like the Jews, who were still trying to blend law and grace and would not relinquish the law as authoritative for Christians, some teachers and preachers mix works and grace. If we take the time to analyze ourselves, we will see Titus as a good example to follow. Titus was one of Paul’s converts [1:4] who accompanied Paul and Barnabas to Jerusalem at the end of the first missionary journey, seventeen years after Paul’s conversion [Gal.2:4]. Am I willing to set aside personal interests to help one of the Lord's servants? Titus was older than Timothy in both years and grace. Would I be willing to sacrifice the financial gains of my career, even though I am in the peak earning years of my life? Would I use my strength and education to spread the Gospel and teach others the way of salvation? Titus was probably physically stronger than Timothy.