Titus 3:1-8: Remember the Gospel

[Note: We will be going through the book of Titus for the next week or so, apparently in an inverted order.]

Titus 2:11.. "For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people..."

The book of Titus was all Paul instructing Timothy on how to "put what remained in order" (Titus 1:5) in the church in Crete. Throughout this short epistle, Paul gives many practical instructions to Titus that he might guide the church in Crete in a manner worthy of the Gospel. Paul presents the Gospel in the end of chapter two by referencing "the grace of God [that] has appeared, bringing salvation for all people." In chapter three, he encourages Titus to "remind" the church members of many things. Let us look at them today.

First, Titus was to remind the Church in Crete of their DUTY. "...be submissive to ruler and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good work" (Titus 3:1). Paul does not want those in Crete to forget what they were called to do. The culture in Crete was thoroughly corrupted (Titus 2:10-16), and because of this, Paul knew that those in Crete would be likely to follow the way of the culture. However, he instructs Titus to remind them of their duty that this may not be so.

Secndly, Titus was to remind the Church in Crete of their DELIVERANCE. The Gospel picture in Titus 3:3-7 is one of the most beautiful portrayals of God's deliverance in all of the Bible. It is too long to quote, but I encourage you to go read it on your own. Ultimately, Paul presents that though we were once foolish, disobedient, led astray, and a variety of other things, God (by his goodness and loving kindness) saved us (not because of our works but by his mercy) by his Holy Spirit. This is the Gospel, and we ought not to forget it. God has delivered us from sin and death, let us remember.

Lastly, Titus was to remind the Church of their DEVOTION. Because God has saved us, Paul argues, all Christians must "devote themselves to good works" (Titus 3:8). Christians ought not to devote themselves to culture or anything of the sort, but rather devote themselves to good works. This takes devotion, and devotion takes hard work, perseverance, and focus. Christians must be fully devoted to good works.

So, here's the application: have you forgotten the Gospel? Have you forgotten that you have a DUTY before God? Have you forgotten that God has DELIVERED you? Have you forgotted that you ought to be DEVOTED to good works? Ultimately, if you have, I would encourage you to remind yourself of the Gospel...DAILY. How do you do that, you ask? Try going to church. Try reading your Bible. Try praying that God might show you your sin and his mercy. Try sharing your struggles with others. Try joining a small group. Try serving the helpless. Try standing up for those who can't stand up for themselves. Try REMEMBERING. That is, try remembering the very truth that set you free from sin and hell. Amen.