THE CHILDREN STEADFAST

Things around us in the old creation have lessons for us in connection with that which God by His Spirit is working in the souls of believers on the Lord Jesus. There is certainly mystery in the way in which young creatures, and especially children, gradually grow up. We do of course know that things like food, exercise and rest are necessary for them. Likewise these are vital to the spirits of Christians growing up to Christ in all things. It was a very fine word of advice by Barnabas, an apostle though not of the twelve, when he told recently converted believers whom he was visiting that "with purpose of heart they should cleave to the Lord". Desiring to do this ourselves we can think of the little marine creatures to which the Creator has given great powers of clinging to a rock - the more one tries to move them the more tightly they hold on!

Paul writing to Titus in the section that includes "little children" used a similar expression to that of Barnabas, namely, "clinging to the faithful word according to the doctrine taught". This referred no doubt to the ministry of Paul himself although the Lord's ministry by His apostles and disciples must have had a profound effect wherever it penetrated. There were evidently already believers in the various cities of Crete although the people of that island had a bad reputation.

This short letter to Titus mentions "teaching" about seven times which suggests that believers are always learning as at school. It can be said that in the epistle "the grace of God" is our teacher, bringing - not a rod - but "salvation". The schoolroom is "the present course of things" so we are always in it and our lessons include learning to "live soberly, justly and piously". These words refer respectively to our conduct towards ourselves, other people and towards God Himself. Thankfully we are encouraged to look out of the schoolroom window, watching for "the appearing of the glory of our great God and Saviour Jesus Christ". Are you doing so?

J.C.Evershed