The selection of elders is not simply about putting warm bodies into leadership positions but about seeking the Lord's direction in ordaining qualified men to serve the church. Hear how Paul's instructions to Titus in his mission at Crete focus on the character and duties of elders.

In John's description of Jesus' appearance (twice) to His disciples, he gives us details of Jesus' resurrection body as well as a bit about the Great Commission, the importance of the Holy Spirit and the authority of the church. But perhaps most fascinating is Jesus' interaction with Thomas and how his profession of faith brings us both encouragement and confidence in Christ.

In this salutation of Paul's letter to Titus, Paul identifies himself by pointing to his relationship to God and focuses on the core message of faith, truth and godliness. All these themes will be important in the letter to Titus, whom he describes as a "legitimate child."

As Paul organizes his mercy ministry to Jerusalem and pleads with the Corinthian church to contribute, he puts together his "A" team to administer and accomplish it. That team includes Titus and two unnamed brothers who are reliable and will faithfully carry out the task. Every ministry in the Lord's Kingdom needs earnest men who will diligently carry it out to His glory.

John, in this text, gives His testimony regarding His faith in the resurrection of Jesus. The facts surrounding the encounter of Peter and John with the empty tomb and the written account of Mary Magdalene's encounter of Jesus both point to the facts and wonders of the risen Christ.

We recite in the Apostles' Creed that Jesus died and was buried. Why is that so important? John indicates the fulfillment of Scripture in the details as we see both the humiliation and the exaltation of Jesus in His death and burial. Also encouraging is seeing how two of Jesus' "secret" disciples were no so secret anymore - then or now!

In this first of two introductory sermons to the book of Titus, we find out that Titus is a willing worker for the Gospel. His participation in the ministry of Corinth demonstrated a willingness to be a part of the tough love of the apostle Paul. Willing to be sent on a mission, even when there is no way of knowing how that mission will be received, we find out the joy of a congregation that demonstrated Godly grief leading to repentance.

This last chapter in Deuteronomy both points us to the faithfulness of Moses but also to the One more faithful than Moses (Hebrews 3:1-6). While Moses died on the mountain having not seen the promised land, Jesus died and yet lives to bring His people with Him to eternal life.

Every detail of the events leading up to and surrounding the crucifixion are full of details that fulfill Scripture and facts that show Jesus' humble obedience. But of utmost importance is the word that Jesus uttered on the cross - "It has been finished!"

Even here in His "suffering under Pontius Pilate," Jesus is shown to be both God and man; the Son of God and the Son of Man. He is the King and no Roman governor or Jewish ruling council could change Who Jesus is.