TITUS 3

DEVOTE YOURSELVES TO GOOD WORKS THROUGH THE HOLY SPIRIT 

Paul reminds Titus to urge the believers in Crete to be obedient to authorities and ready to produce good work. Titus is to teach the people to avoid quarreling, showing gentleness and courtesy to all people. Because of the violent and corrupt culture in Crete, this is no small task! Paul encourages Titus to remind the believers to be humble in their leadership, since they were also once disobedient and led astray.

Instead of giving into various pleasures and hating one another, the people of Crete are called to self-control and goodness. Despite the rebellion of the people, Jesus is merciful and offers salvation from their sinfulness. Through the Holy Spirit that dwells within believers, followers of Jesus are declared righteous and given the hope of eternal life. In response to God’s mercy and trustworthiness, Christians are called to devote themselves to good works and embrace the transformative power of the gospel.

Titus 3:5 - he saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit . . .