But when the kindness of God our Savior and his love toward mankind appeared, not by works of righteousness which we did ourselves, but according to his mercy, he saved us through the washing of regeneration and renewing by the Holy Spirit Titus 3:4-5 WEB
The apostle Paul is historically credited with writing the Book of Titus. He wrote it for the Christian missionary and church leader Titus. Titus had the unenviable job of restoring order to the churches in Crete. At the time, Crete was known for its corruption and sin. Titus went to the island to replace corrupt church leaders with true men of God. The letter to Titus is one of three pastoral epistles written by Paul.
In chapter three of Paul’s letter, he stresses the good works intended for those saved by God our Savior through the blood of Jesus Christ. Saved from sin and condemnation in order to do good works, Paul shares with Titus his desire for him to remind the church in Crete to live in obedience to rulers and authorities. In addition, Paul encourages Titus to prompt the church to always be ready to do whatever is good. He encourages a considerate attitude and gentleness in dealing with others.
Reborn in the Spirit of God
Paul’s reasoning is that each of us required saving and our compassion for other sinners is representative of the compassion God demonstrated for us.. He writes in Titus 3:3, “For we were also once foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving various lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another. WEB” Paul follows this with an affirmation of the love of God our Savior. These words demonstrate the triune nature of God as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
Verses four and five in chapter three of Titus remind the reader that God showed mercy to every sinner, that none of us are righteous of our own accord. Our heavenly Father offers salvation by his grace. Jesus accomplished it on the cross paying for our sins, redeeming sinners who place faith in him. The Holy Spirit counsels and comforts believers, renewing the born again believer who dies to the burden of sin and is reborn in the Spirit of God.
Prayer: “Father God, thank you for the guidance of your holy word. Thank you for my salvation in Jesus Christ. Guide me with your word. Lead me by the power of your Holy Spirit. In Jesus name – Amen”
Yesterday’s Devotional: Divide the Inheritance
