Simply growing older does not mean one is growing wiser! The characteristics of the spiritually mature man, as Paul describes them to Titus, and not innate qualities, but only develop through reliance on the Spirit, reading of His Word, and resting in His power and authority! But the young men of the church are to be encouraged, are to be urged to watch and learn from those who are an example of such spiritual growth.
“Likewise, urge the young men to be sensible"
To urge is to most strongly entreat and encourage, to be active in point someone in the right direction. And that direction is one of "being sensible" – of having good judgment, common sense, and self-control. It is interesting that the ‘only’ character quality Paul mentions in terms of young men in this passage is that of ‘being sensible’. The young man who lacks common sense, who lacks judgment, who is lacking in self-control will have a most difficult road ahead to true growth.
Self-control is a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:23). The lack of self-control is listed among the “quality-traits” of the ungodly…
"But realize this, that in the last days difficult times will come. For men will be lovers of self, lovers of money, boastful, arrogant, revilers, disobedient to parents, ungrateful, unholy, unloving, irreconcilable, malicious gossips, without self-control, brutal, haters of good, treacherous, reckless, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God; holding to a form of godliness, although they have denied its power; and avoid such men as these." 2 Timothy 3:1-5
The development of spiritual maturity needs to be a conscious aspect of a young man’s life… “in all things” (Titus 2:2) those around who observe should "see the gospel"…
"Let no one look down on your youthfulness, but rather in speech, conduct, love, faith and purity, show yourself an example of those who believe." 1Timothy 4:12
So how does a young man grow?
"How can a young man keep his way pure? By keeping it according to Thy word." Psalm 119:9
Biblical ignorance will never result in spiritual maturity…
"But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh." Galatians 5:16
To be led by the Hold Spirit is to be led in the right direction!
"Likewise urge the young men to be sensible;..." Titus 2:6
Listen to those godly voices and watch the godly examples around you… Be urged on!
"He who walks with wise men will be wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm." Proverbs 13:20
You are the company you keep… Who is your company?
The greater purpose behind mentoring by the spiritually mature and being mentored by the spiritually growing is “in order that the opponent may be put to shame…” (Titus 2:7) and for the proclaiming of the gospel…
"For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all men, instructing us to deny ungodliness and worldly desires and to live sensibly, righteously and godly in the present age, looking for the blessed hope and the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Christ Jesus; who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from every lawless deed and purify for Himself a people for His own possession, zealous for good deeds." Titus 1:11-14
May we all "grow up"!
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