September 7, 2025
The Task: Legit Level Leadership | Brian Ebel
Big Idea:
Titus is on the island of Crete which is located off the coast of Greece and there are not a whole lot of LEGIT leaders to go around. There are however plenty of people steeped in Greek mythology who hold to the philosophy “eat, drink, and be merry for tomorrow we die.” That kind of worldview/theology doesn’t lend itself to LEGIT character. Thankfully our character doesn’t start with how good we are – it starts with how good God is. What God has done for us. What God is doing in us. What God is doing through us. Legit genuine character means something. It affords you the opportunity to be heard. It creates these divine Holy Spirit moments where we’ve been left behind and appointed by God to teach and instruct, and to point out that which is false and supplant it with that which is true, right, and good.
Key Points
1.) Culture is always influencing the Church.
“Three examples of culture influencing the character of the church… Follow your heart… We all worship the same God… God will always forgive you so keep sinning… Culture creeps in.”
Our modern-day mantras sound a lot like ancient Crete—where bad theology led to bad character. Paul’s instruction to Titus reveals that healthy churches require discernment and correction, not passive acceptance.
2.) Godly character is the foundation of godly leadership.
“The leadership of the church should love God, love people, and love what’s good.”
Paul gives Titus a legit list of leadership qualifications—traits that reflect transformation by the Spirit, not perfection by works. These include being above reproach, self-controlled, hospitable, and able to teach truth and correct error. Without this, leaders lose the ability to speak into people’s lives.
3.) Everyone leads somewhere.
“You’re a leader in your home. In your workplace. In your school. In your friend group.”
This isn’t just a message for pastors—it’s for anyone with influence. Legit leadership starts by examining our hearts, holding tight to truth, and showing up with love and integrity.
4.) Consistency matters more than charisma.
“You kept showing up.”
Brian shares a powerful story about a woman who resisted faith for two years but eventually chose Jesus—not because of a single sermon, but because she saw consistency, care, and character over time. The gospel gains credibility when it’s embodied with faithfulness.
Application Questions
- Where are you a leader—whether at home, at work, or among friends?
- How is your character being shaped by God’s Word and Spirit?
- Are you holding firm to truth in a way that invites others to hear and receive it?
- Is there an area of ministry at St. Luke where God might be calling you to “get in the game”?
- What’s one way this week you can “keep showing up” for someone who needs hope?
