I’m Seeking Pastoral Advice…

July 30, 2005 | 1:09 AM

I was wondering when the time is right to speak up and out against things that people are doing, knowing that what they do is bringing down the spiritual life of those around them. In as much humility as possible, I honestly want to see people grow in their knowledge and love of my Lord Jesus Christ. It is not my desire to speak falsehood or confront angrily, but rather to address issues openly and humbly. In the last few minutes Paul’s words to Titus came back to me:

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 to redeem us from every lawless deed, and to purify for Himself a people for His own possession, zealous for good deeds. These things speak and exhort and reprove with all authority. Let no one disregard you.

Titus 2:11-15

It is not now, nor will it ever be, my desire to rebuke in a hostile or violent way. When the time comes, though, for me to approach those I care about, I will do so. What gives me the right to say something? What gives me the right to rebuke and reprove? What gives me the right to speak up and out against what people are doing?

Here are my open questions regarding Titus 2:11-15.

(1) Is Paul speaking solely to Titus in reference to those under his authority and leadership?
(2) Is this only in reference to a pastoral role, and therefore for a “regular Christian” if such exists, invalid?
(3) Is this open to any believer who is on the journey, pursuing holiness?
(4) If this is directed toward Titus and those who hold the role of pastor, at what point does one cross over from being a lay leader to being a pastor, outside of ordination?
(5) If it is reserved for the pastor, and I do not fit the role of a pastor because I have not been ordained, does this mean I have no right to call out those who are overtly disobeying God’s call to be holy and pursue holiness?