We have two more letters from Paul to look at – Titus and Philemon. There must have been similar issues going on in the church in Crete, because Paul wrote on many of the same issues. And consistent with all of Paul’s letters, he again touched on the fact that we are saved by grace not by works but saved to do good works and live a holy life.
For the grace of God has been revealed, bringing salvation to all people. And we are instructed to turn from godless living and sinful pleasures. We should live in this evil world with wisdom, righteousness, and devotion to God, while we look forward with hope to that wonderful day when the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ will be revealed. He gave his life to free us from every kind of sin, to cleanse us, and to make us his very own people, totally committed to doing good deeds (Titus 2:11-14).
This is a trustworthy saying, and I want you to insist on these teachings so that all who trust in God will devote themselves to doing good. These teaching are good and beneficial for everyone (3:8).
“When God our Savior revealed his kindness and love, he saved us, not because of the righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He washed away our sins, giving us a new birth and new life through the Holy Spirit. He generously poured out the Spirit upon us through Jesus Christ our Savior. Because of his grace he declared us righteous and gave us confidence that we will inherit eternal life.” – Titus 3:4-7
Last night we attended the Passion Play at Pekin First Church of the Nazarene. During the crucifixion scene, I had to focus on Christ and pull myself away from the actors. To consider what Jesus did for me on the cross, how He gave His life for me… How do we adequately express our thanks for that kind of love?
“not because of the righteous things we had done” and in spite of the large quantity of sins He had to wash away. Christ GENEROUSLY died on a cross so that I can walk away from my old self and allow Him to create within me someone new – a new life through the Holy Spirit. As a way of showing my gratitude and our surrender to His Lordship, I lay my life in His hands with a willingness to do whatever He calls me to do today.
Saved by grace…
Saved to a total commitment to do good deeds!