Titus: Real Change is Possible Part 2

David Phelps - In his song “Just as I am”

It took place in Russia before the Iron Curtain had been pulled back – ever so slightly. This author, a pastor, and several other pastors were traveling through north eastern Russia, looking for opportunities to develop Christian radio outlets.

Dear Lord, I'm on my knees again I come to you because you understand I've tried so hard, but I just can't change myself That's why I know I need your help

One of their stops was in a city where the local Commissar (sort of like a Mayor) met the group and led them on a tour. He didn’t know they were pastors – only that they were Americans. And he evidently wanted to communicate a message to these American visitors. As they walked toward the middle of the town, he told them that they were very proud of their church and he invited them to see it for themselves.

As they neared the church building, the pastors were frankly surprised to see a beautiful white building with its typical onion-shaped turrets. As they stepped inside, the lobby or vestibule was similar to any American vestibule with doors leading into the sanctuary.

So here I am, this in my plea My only hope is your love for me I'm reaching out so desperately Come take my hand, take all of me Just as I am

However, when they pushed open the doors and stepped into the sanctuary, they were astonished. It had lost all resemblance to a house of worship. Stacked from floor to ceiling were rows upon rows of chicken coops, all filled with cackling hens.

Neurobiologist Robert Sapolsky opposed to the concept of "free will."

The Commissar made a sweeping gesture around the sanctuary and said with great pride, “Our church building is the finest hatchery in the region.” And

Instead, he believes that our behavior is made up of a complex and chaotic soup of so many factors that it's downright silly to think there's a singular, autonomous "you" calling the shots.

What Sapolsky is saying is that everything you do is determined and is beyond your ability to control.

Real change is possible.

Real change is possible through the work of the Spirit.

Titus 3:5 ESV

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,

Regeneration is a supernatural act of the Spirit of God where He imparts new life to man.

The spirit of God is the ultimate grave robber.

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He came not to make bad people good but to make dead people alive!

Real change is possible through the atoning sacrifice of the Son.

Titus 3:6–7 ESV

6 whom he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior, 7 so that being justified by his grace we might become heirs according to the hope of eternal life.

tit 36-7

Justification is the judicial act of declaring a sinner to be in right standing with God.

Real change is practical.

Titus 3:8–9 ESV

8 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. 9 But avoid foolish controversies, genealogies, dissensions, and quarrels about the law, for they are unprofitable and worthless.

tit 3:8-

Be careful to do good deeds. -

to keep on giving serious consideration to something—‘to ponder, to let one’s mind dwell on, to keep thinking about, to fix one’s attention on.’ The verb is in the present tense which means that Paul is referring not just to a singular isolated good deed, but a way of life.

It means to think about . . . to be intent upon. To be intentional. It implies being creative and thorough in your

investigation of how and what to do in the form of good deeds.

The verb is in the present tense which means that Paul is referring not just to a singular isolated good deed, but a way of life.

This is your mindset -

When God changes your heart it will reflect in your life.

Titus 2:7 ESV

7 Show yourself in all respects to be a model of good works, and in your teaching show integrity, dignity,

Titus 2:14 ESV

14 who gave himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to purify for himself a people for his own possession who are zealous for good works.

Titus 3:1 ESV

1 Remind them to be submissive to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good work,

Notice the contrast with those who embrace a false gospel.

Titus 1:16 ESV

16 They profess to know God, but they deny him by their works. They are detestable, disobedient, unfit for any good work.

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That’s just a fancy way of staying.

That’s just a fancy way of staying.

When God changes your heart it will reflect in your life.

A divisive spirit is unacceptable.

tit 3

Titus 3:10 ESV

10 As for a person who stirs up division, after warning him once and then twice, have nothing more to do with him,