ACC ~ Titus 2 v7

SOUND SPEECH. HILARY OF POITIERS: Finally, Paul instructed Titus, whom he addresses directly about attaining perfection in the practice of the true religion, in this admonition: “Show yourself in all respects a model of good deeds, and in your teaching show integrity, gravity and sound speech that cannot be censured, so that an opponent may be put to shame, having nothing evil to say of us.” This teacher of the Gentiles and the chosen leader of the church, conscious of Christ who spoke and dwelt within him, knew that the plague of a deadly eloquence would rise up against him. … For this reason, he wished the bishop to possess learning, the consciousness of the faith and the knowledge of argument that would withstand godless lying and insane objections. ON THE TRINITY 8.1.

CONSCIENCE AND REPUTATION. AUGUSTINE: As far as we are concerned, our consciences are all that matters. As far as you are concerned, our reputation among you ought not to be tarnished but influential for good. Mark what I’ve said, and make the distinction. There are two things, conscience and reputation; conscience for yourself, reputation for your neighbor. Those who, being clear in their consciences, neglect their reputations, are being cruel; especially if they find themselves in this position. The apostle writes about this to his disciple: “Showing yourself to all around you as an example of good works.” SERMONS 355.1.

EQUAL TREATMENT. ANONYMOUS: Therefore, O man, do not cease to recommend and to teach the things that are holy down to the last soul entrusted to you. And “present yourself as an example of good works.” Be especially careful not to love one and hate another. Show an equal attitude to all, lest the one whom you love God might hate, and the one whom you hate God might love. THE TESTAMENT OF HORIESIOS 9.

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