Week One
Authentic Leadership In An Age Of Broken Trust
Main Idea —
Transformed leadership begins with transformed lives. Paul urges Titus to establish godly leadership in contrast to the corrupt Cretan culture. Good leadership is essential to preserving truth, correcting error, and forming healthy communities.
In a world wounded by broken leadership, God is restoring trust through authentic, godly leaders. Rather than shrink back, we are called to heal, trust God’s design, and rise to reflect His heart.
Key Themes —
Comparing Cretan and modern (e.g. Singaporean/world) cultures
Our longing for leadership
Selfish ambition in leadership
Leadership culture in the church
Healing and restoration from leadership wounds
Opening Questions —
Who is a leader (past or present) who impacted your life — for better or worse?
What comes to mind when you hear the word “leadership”?
What do you think makes a leader trustworthy and godly?
Read Together —
Titus 1:1-16
Reflection & Discussion —
1. God’s heart for leadership:
In verses 1-4, how does Paul define his identity and purpose as a leader?
What does it tell us about his mission and authority?
What do these verses teach us about God’s intent for leadership?
What happens when leaders lose sight of this purpose?
2. The weight of leadership:
What qualities does Paul require of elders? Which stands out to you the most and why?
Why is character the foundation for godly leadership?
How do these qualities reflect the character of Jesus?
How do these traits contrast with worldly leadership today?
3. When leadership wounds:
Paul strongly confronts false leaders who are selfish, deceptive and destructive. Have you ever experienced or witnessed this kind of harmful leadership?
How does Paul describe false teachers (vv.10–16), and why is their influence so dangerous?
How did it affect your trust in leaders, or even your walk with God?
What do you think God wants to say to the wounded?
4. Healing & Recommissioning:
Why do you think people choose to stay on the sidelines after being hurt?
How can healing happen in the context of a community?
What does it look like to trust God’s design for leadership, even when people fail?
What would healthy, godly leadership look like in your home, workplace, or church?
Prayer & Ministry —
Pray for those who have been hurt by leadership—for healing, restoration, and renewed vision.
Pray for a rising up of godly leaders who reflect Christ’s heart in every sphere (church, home, workplace).
Pray for church leaders to lead with godly character. Pray for a culture of integrity and truth in leadership.
Invite the Holy Spirit to reignite courage in those who feel disqualified or afraid to lead again.
Application/ Takeaway —
This week, spend time reflecting on Titus 1:1-9.
Ask the Lord:
What kind of leader are You calling me to be?
Who in my life needs encouragement or healing from leadership wounds?