SCRIPTURE: TITUS 3
BIBLE VERSES:
“Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good, to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and always to be gentle toward everyone.” (Titus 3:1-2)
“At one time we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another. But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life” (Titus 3:3-7)
“But avoid foolish controversies and genealogies and arguments and quarrels about the law, because these are unprofitable and useless. ” (Titus 3:9)
“Our people must learn to devote themselves to doing what is good, in order to provide for urgent needs and not live unproductive lives.” (Titus 3:14)
DOING WHAT IS GOOD (vs. 1-11)
In this first letter to Titus, Paul gave the following reminders:
- To be subject to rulers and authorities
- To be obedient
- To be ready to do whatever is good
- To slander no one.
- To be peaceable and considerate
- To show true humility
- To avoid foolish and controversies genealogies and argents and quarrels about the law
He also emphasized on the kindness and love of God who saved us because of His mercy through the making of rebirth and renewal of the Holy Spirit. By His grace, we have been justified to become heirs with hope of an eternal life.
FINAL REMARKS (vs. 12-15)
Paul instructed Titus to met him at Nicopolis and to provide the needs of Zenas, the lawyer and Apollos. Most importantly, he reiterated his major theme of doing good works and living a productive life.
THOUGHTS:
The church is not to get involved in political parties but Christians should honor the office and the laws of the land. We must support the good program of the government as long as it does not compromise our conviction.
Salvation is not by works but real faith results in good works.
Paul advised Titus not to get involved in foolish and unprofitable arguments that were causing divisions in church. Those divisive people should be admonished twice and if they persisted in causing strife, they were to be dismissed from the fellowship. This will result in fewer church division if this principle is observed.