Titus Chapter 3
The book of Titus is a letter written by Sha'ul (Paul) to his spiritual brother, Titus, who is presently in Crete. Because it is a letter, I've decided to get rid of the verse indicators because it reads so much better. FYI, only Chapter 3 is spoken of in this blog entry. It behooves one to read the entire short book, but Ch.3 is a vivid illustration of what we do with our free gift of Salvation once accepted. If you have ever wondered; OK, I accept the free gift from Yeshua and have Salvation - now what?, then this is your answer. It should be taken to heart by all believers!
Beginning at verse 1, ch. 3 of Titus with Paul advising his friend on what to tell the Cretans (ESV used):
Remind them to be submissive to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good work, to speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and to show perfect courtesy toward all people.
[Note:] Some in the Church say that being submissive to our "rulers and authorities" means to never disobey them, no matter what they say or do. The totality of Scripture does not support this thinking. We are to be submissive to our rulers in as much as they allow us to follow the instructions of God. When they begin to deny God, we are no longer obligated to be submissive. Just look at all the Prophets who were martyred throughout biblical history, Yeshua included, who went against the prevailing authority. Also, please notice; we are to be ready "for every good work". A study on the word, "work(s)", in the Bible, always points back to Torah.
... continuing:
For we ourselves were once foolish, disobedient, led astray, slaves to various passions and pleasures, passing our days in malice and envy, hated by others and hating one another. But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared, 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, whom he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that being justified by his grace we might become heirs according to the hope of eternal life.
[Note:] ... "he saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness,". Following the instructions in Torah does not "save us", only Yeshua's mercy does. This "saving" is spiritual, and later, at the blessed resurrection; literal. This spiritual saving is done by the regenerative washing over us of the Holy Spirit. This justifies us so we may become His heirs. Does this mean works are no longer required? Of course not! God forbid!
... continuing:
The saying is trustworthy, and I want you to insist on these things, so that those who have believed in God may be careful to devote themselves to good works. These things are excellent and profitable for people. But avoid foolish controversies, genealogies, dissensions, and quarrels about the law, for they are unprofitable and worthless. As for a person who stirs up division, after warning him once and then twice, have nothing more to do with him, knowing that such a person is warped and sinful; he is self-condemned.
[Note:] Although we are saved and justified through Christ and the Holy Spirit, we should still devote ourselves to "good works". These good works are the instructions given in Torah, which defines sin for us and warns us about not continuing sinning. The Church, to it's detriment, ignores this admonition.
Final Instructions and Greetings:
When I send Artemas or Tychicus to you, do your best to come to me at Nicopolis, for I have decided to spend the winter there. Do your best to speed Zenas the lawyer and Apollos on their way; see that they lack nothing. And let our people learn to devote themselves to good works, so as to help cases of urgent need, and not be unfruitful.
All who are with me send greetings to you. Greet those who love us in the faith.
Grace be with you all.
Grace be with you all.
The Observer
