PASTORAL EPISTLES at AGBC

The Pastoral Epistles consists of the books first and second of Timothy and Titus. Apostle Paul wrote them to Timothy and Titus respectively.

I would like to share of my learning experience with you of the following:

Simple Daily Exercise

Prior to the first day of class, I did an assignment that was required to hand in on the first day of lesson. I read these books in two different versions and write down at least one thing that God spoke to me in each chapter. It was a simple and interesting exercise to let God speak to me through each chapter daily for two weeks. During these times, I slowly read and reflected in His Word. From His Word, there were reminders, instructions and encouragement. His Word is always so rich in grace, mercy and peace.

I think the lecturer wanted his students to come prepare for this module and also to let God speak to us pertaining to these three books in the Bible.

Through the exercise, I learnt that there were so many things that I could thank God for. There were things that He reminded me to be faithful and steadfast especially in relationships. There are many people watching me (my attitude, speech and conduct) that either I can draw them closer to God or draw them away from God. In my daily devotion with God, it is one way to let Him speaks and reminds me of His ways.

Provoking Spiritual Exercises

I like the four spiritual exercises. They were practical with provoking questions.

1. Read 1 Tim 3:1-7 (the core qualities that every Christian leader should exhibit).

2. Read 1 Tim 4:11-15 (the effective Christian leader is characterized by an exemplary Christian lifestyle (4:11-12), a God-centred worship (4:13), and the faithful exercise of spiritual gifts (4:14).

3. Read 2 Tim 1:3-7 (Timothy was influenced spiritually by his grandmother, mother and Paul).

4. Read 2 Tim 4:1-8 (Paul’s legacy to the church and challenge to us so that we would not have any regrets at the end of our lives).

I have not seriously pondered on these issues as I were too busy in the past or had taken them for granted. As I did these spiritual exercises, the questions provoked me to reflect and think deep to act and change now and not to procrastinate further. What I can do now will affect others and I am responsible to influence others for the glory of God who richly bestowed spiritual gifts and blessings to me.

The Concept of Thesis of Titus 2:1-10

The thesis consists of the form, structure, setting, exegesis of text and theological implication. There are four groups in the class that at times the lecturer wants us to interact and discuss some issues pertaining to the lesson. I like the teamwork in my group as each of us contributed to do our part of the thesis and the leader collated and put them together. Each of us also wrote our part for theological implication (for older men, older women, young men, younger women, slaves) and within a week the paper was done.

I learnt that it is important for the pastors and Christian leaders to give proper instructions to these five various groups of people and dealing with other issues.

From the Pastoral Epistles, character criteria of electing leaders, deacons and overseers are more important than papers qualification. Leaders have the responsibilities to teach and set good example. This is very practical as a leader in the church, to set priority to character building to our charges through the Word of God and by my example in Christ. I must diligently study the Word of God in order to impart the truth and character to my charges.

The Presentation (Titus 2:1-10)

In discussion of the presentation for this Saturday, our group has come out with creative ideas to present the passage to our class. We want to teach God’s Word clearly and enjoyable where everyone in the class can participate and learn to be a doer of His Word.

God has held me responsibility to teach His Word. In obedience I will follow His instructions and live a life that is pleasing to Him.

I have benefited in depth of the teaching in this module. Being a leader and teacher in the church, I must be disciplined in my walk with God, in prayer and studying of His Word diligently. Also building up relationships with others will help them to know God and draw them to a closer relationship with God.