Titus 2:7

“in all things showing yourself to be a pattern of good works; in doctrine showing integrity, reverence, incorruptibility,” – Titus 2:7

Continuing on the point which Titus needs to teach the young men in;

“in all things showing yourself to be a pattern of good works”

The word “pattern” implies the act of coping. Someone is copying these young men and so they ought to be a proper pattern. This pattern is in terms of work – specifically ‘good works’. How these young men could be examples of good patterns of ‘good works’ comes in Titus 2:11-14. This is amazing though that young men – can live a life that is worthy to imitate.

“in doctrine showing integrity …”

These young men are to know doctrine – “the teachings”, they are not just young and full of energy, they are focused, intellectual as well. And what is more, is that in there understanding of doctrine there is integrity – which gives the impression that they know what they believe and it is (g0090. ἀδιαφθορία) ‘sound’.

The “integrity test”

• Am I truthful?
• Am I honest?
• Am I pure?
• Am I selfish?

Integrity is a mindset, that one is living life in the presence of God.

“in doctrine showing … reverence”

These boys – have the characteristic which entitles to reverence (g4587. σεμνότης) and respect. They have dignity, majesty, sanctity. Perhaps this could relate to how they handle the things of God?

“in doctrine showing … incorruptibility”

They have purity or incorruptibility (g0861. ἀφθαρσία) when it comes to not just the doctrine, but one would expect, their lives, and how they live it – because after all, they are a pattern of good works.

An application:

As an “overseer”, I pray that I would be a pattern of good works. One that others would be safe to follow, one that would lead them to the Author of the doctrine, that I hold – Jesus Christ. Amen.