Fruitful Faith: Devoted to Doing Good

Living Out Our Faith: The Good Works That Justify Us

Bible Passage: Titus 3:8–15

Titus 3:8–15 ESV

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. 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.

Summary: In Titus 3:8–15, Paul emphasizes the importance of good works in the life of a believer, showcasing how these works reflect our faith and character transformed by grace.

Big Idea: True faith expresses itself through good works, which serve as an outward sign of an inward transformation by grace.

Application: This passage calls Christians to engage in good works as a demonstration of their faith, encouraging them to support one another and also to be mindful of maintaining good relationships with others. It reminds both Christians and non-believers of the importance of actions that align with their beliefs, particularly in a world often skeptical of genuine faith.

Teaching: This sermon teaches that good works are not a means to earn salvation, but a natural response and evidence of the grace received through faith in Jesus Christ. Our lives should be marked by good deeds that reflect God's love and bring His light into the world.

Recommended Study: I suggest utilizing your Logos library to explore commentaries on Titus, focusing on the social context of ancient Crete, which can shed light on why Paul emphasizes good works. You might also examine text-critical insights into the original Greek, particularly regarding the nuances of 'good works' in this passage. Finally, explore theological discussions on the relationship between faith and works, which can help deepen your understanding of this critical subject.

1. Devotion to Divine Duties

Titus 3:8–10 ESV

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,

Perhaps you could explore how believers are called to devote themselves to good works as a response to their faith, illustrating how this devotion serves as a testimony of their transformation by grace. This passage encourages avoiding fruitless disputes to maintain unity and focus on God's mission.

2. Cultivate Christlike Character

Titus 3:11–13 ESV

knowing that such a person is warped and sinful; he is self-condemned. 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.

You could demonstrate how Paul emphasizes the importance of dealing with divisive individuals with wisdom and grace. This passage underscores the call for believers to cultivate peace and harmony in their relationships, showcasing their transformed character by avoiding unnecessary conflict.

3. Seize Service Opportunities

Titus 3:14–15 ESV

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.

Maybe you could highlight the urgency and necessity of meeting not only our own needs but also the needs of others, showing how our actions can be an impactful witness to the world. This finale encourages believers to seize every opportunity to serve as a manifestation of their hope and faith in Christ.

How this passage could point to Christ: The theme of good works united with grace finds its culmination in Christ Himself, who, through His own righteous works, enables believers to reflect His character and live out their faith. Jesus' sacrificial love inspires and empowers us to engage in works that honor God and serve others.