Titus 3
by Philip Layton
We are saved by faith, but should devote ourselves to doing good
Discussion Questions
- Is it fair to say that holiness should be a by-product of salvation, or is it a pre-condition for salvation, or neither?
- Does verse 10 sound harsh or sensible?
Share your thoughts below, or tweet about it with the #boundlessbible hashtag. Don't forget this week's Children's Challenge!
Going Deeper From 'Words of Life'
This is a trustworthy saying. And I want you to stress these things, so that those who have trusted in God may be careful to devote themselves to doing what is good (v. 8).
Good works cannot save us. But we are saved to do good works. Paul’s letter to Titus, to the Cretans – and subsequently to us – gives insight as to what good works we can do as Christians. It’s really about practising the gospel.
We’re to show integrity as we take God’s Word seriously. We’re to stay away from all wickedness; living lives of purity, always eager to do what’s good. We’re to be obedient to authority, doing good things and slandering no one. We’re to create peace with others and be considerate of them. We’re to devote our lives to doing good – which will profit everyone. Finally, we’re to provide the daily necessities of life, in order that our lives prove to be productive:
Our people must learn to devote themselves to doing what is good, in order that they may provide for daily necessities and not live unproductive lives (v. 14).
How deep does our faith go? Perhaps the answer is found in how much we practise the gospel in the breadth of our concern for others. It’s about blending theology and ethics; God’s love flowing through us – as we reach out to others. For faith and life are inseparable.
Life with Christ is vastly different than life apart from Christ. It’s not only about our eternal destiny; it’s about the here and now. Rather than caving in to a human-centred world, we need to elevate Christ’s glorious name as we interact with others.
Thought
Today, make an effort to do at least one act of kindness toward someone who doesn’t know Christ. Let’s practise the gospel of love.
Beverly Ivany
Tags: Titus