Devoted to Doing Good
Titus chapter 3, verses 1 to 8
You can trust this saying. These things are important. Treat them that way. Then those who trust in God will be careful to commit themselves to doing good. These things are excellent. They are for the good of everyone.
Titus chapter 3, verse 8
We should never think of good works as just a “social gospel”.
A Reminder, verses 1 and 2
God, through Paul’s letter to Titus, reminds us of our duties on earth. Respect authority, obey the government, except where it demands that we disobey God. Don’t slander, don’t pick a fight,, be peaceable, be humble to all people. How can we? Not in ourselves, but the Holy Spirit helps us.
A Reason, verses 3 to 7
We should remember what we used to be like. John Newton, drunken sailor and slave-trader, later Christian pastor, had this written up in his house, as his daily reminder……
Remember that you were slaves in Egypt. The Lord your God set you free. That’s why I’m giving you this command today.
Deuteronomy chapter 15, verse 15
God gave Newton a new start. He is still doing it, because of His kindness, love, mercy and grace.
A Result, verse 8
Evidence. There ought to be some fruit. Kind to neighbours rather than difficult towards them. Devoted to good works, for the Lord’s sake. The New Testament says the same over and over again. We cannot earn our salvation, but we should live it out day by day.
In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.
Matthew’s Gospel, chapter 5, verse 16