Titus Chapter 3 - Its Go Time
- Mar 4, 2024
- 3 min read
INTRODUCTION :
Last week we read Titus 2 and how Paul charged Titus giving us instructions on how we are to live a sound and respectful Christian life and be an example to others while awaiting the return of Jesus. He reinforced that it is the grace of God that inspires us/Christians toward this right behavior and right thinking. This week we are wrapping up the book of Titus or the letter from Paul to Titus with Chapter 3, Be Ready for Every Good Work…
So, let's take a look at Chapter 3- READ Chapter 3- It’s Go Time
Verses 1-2: Instructions on Christian Behavior… AGAIN?!
Paul begins the chapter by instructing Titus to remind the Christians of Crete to submit to governing authorities and to be ready for every good work. They are urged to avoid slander, speak evil of no one, to not engage in arguments, to be gentle, and to show all humility and honor to all people.
Simply said here, don't forget who your authorities are, submit to them and in all of it witness to not only them but to those around you!
Verses 3-7: The Merciful Salvation of God
Paul reflects on the sinful past of believers before their salvation. He emphasizes that salvation is not due to righteous works, but due to God’s kindness, love, and mercy. Through Jesus and the washing of regeneration and renewal by the Holy Spirit, believers are justified and made heirs according to the hope of eternal life.
There is that word “work" again, right? I like this part, always do. It is the reminder that my past is my past and it is because of Jesus’ work on the cross that I am renewed!
Verses 8-11: The Role of Good Works and Dealing with Divisive People
Paul emphasizes the importance of good works in the life of believers. He says, “insist on these things”. They are excellent and profitable for them. He warns them to avoid foolish controversies, genealogies, dissensions and quarrels about the law. These things are worthless as opposed to profitable. He also warns Titus about divisive people, people who stir up division. After a divisive person has been warned twice, Titus is instructed to have nothing more to do with them. Woah!
Genealogies? Wha? “Back in the day” Your family name and “tree” meant a LOT and people would get in arguments of whose tree was greater and this and that…not to mention arguments on the or “discussions” regarding the law…ultimately creating dissension among people….at what cost? What is the gain here? Paul is urging Titus to not get caught up in that. Believe it or not there are still people today that enjoy a good dust up or controversy to get people riled up….why? Seems to be a thing today and back then….
Vs 12-15… Final Instructions
I'll send my people to you, you send your people to me. And let our people devote themselves to good works so they are ready to help urgent needs. And greetings, greetings, greetings!
Take care of my peeps and I'll take care of yours and so on we go. Take care of one another!
CONCLUSION:
Titus 3, in summary, provides key teachings on Christian conduct, the importance of good works, the transformative power of God’s grace, and guidelines for dealing with divisive people and issues. I love how this letter continues to underscore the profound change that salvation brings in a believer’s life and the importance of living out these changes practically and visibly.
Paul’s wrapping up his letter and wants to end on a high note. He tells Titus, “Remind everyone to be chill with the people in charge and not to start fights. They should be super nice to everyone.” He reminds them, “Remember, we used to be not-so-great ourselves. But God! He’s so kind and loving that he saved us from our not-so-greatness.”
Paul tells Titus, and us, that God washed us clean and made us fresh and new, like getting a brand-new start! And with this new life, we should dive into doing good things for others. But stay away from useless arguments – they’re a complete waste of time. Say your goodbyes and keep being amazing.
Basically… It’s Go Time!
Thoughts/Questions To Consider:
Vs 3 says we were once… ?
Vs 7 says, but now we are… because of the amazing Grace of God through Jesus?
Vs 8 says we are to pay it forward. Have you ever done that before? What was your experience?
Vs 10 says three strikes and you’re out. What is this referring to? What does that look like today?