Always Remember to Never Forget Where You Came From

Remember Practical Zeal

The Bible Knowledge Commentary 3:1–2

Though Paul did not repeat it here, his thought was no doubt that this behavior, like that of a Christian slave, will adorn the gospel and make it attractive to others (cf. 2:10). Paul listed seven qualities expected of Christian citizens: (1) to be subject to rulers and authorities; (2) to be obedient (cf. Rom. 13:1–7); (3) to be ready to do whatever is good (cf. Eph. 2:10; 2 Tim. 3:17); (4) to slander no one; (5) to be peaceable and (6) considerate; and (7) to show true humility toward all men.

Commentaries on the Epistles to Timothy, Titus, and Philemon Chapter 3

We are all by nature desirous of power; and the consequence is, that no one willingly is subject to another. Besides, perceiving that nearly all the principalities and powers of the world were at that time opposed to Christ, they thought them unworthy of receiving any honour.

Commentaries on the Epistles to Timothy, Titus, and Philemon Chapter 3

We know that there is nothing to which the disposition of every man is more prone than to despise others in comparison of himself. The consequence is, that many are proud of the gifts of God; and this is accompanied by contempt for their brethren, which is immediately followed by insult. He therefore forbids Christians to glory over others, or to reproach them, whatever may be their own superior excellence.

The New International Greek Testament Commentary: The Pastoral Epistles Instructions for Living under Rulers and with Non-christians: 3:1–2

This would mean that the two nouns are governed by both of the infinitives. Parry suggests that “in each case the second word has the effect of qualifying the first: = ‘to ruling powers which have due authority render the submission of an active obedience.’ ”

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The New International Greek Testament Commentary: The Pastoral Epistles Instructions for Living under Rulers and with Non-christians: 3:1–2

πραΰτης means “gentleness, humility, courtesy, considerateness, meekness” (BAGD; see also Spicq, Notes III, 570–81; Leivestad, “Meekness”). It may be best understood by its contrast to its opposites, roughness, bad temper, sudden anger, and brusqueness

Knight, G. W. (1992). The Pastoral Epistles: a commentary on the Greek text (p. 334). Grand Rapids, MI; Carlisle, England: W.B. Eerdmans; Paternoster Press.

Paul exhorts believers to be who they have been called by grace to become.

Importance of being reminded. Verb used is in the present active imperative which means that this is not a one and done, it is to continually remind them. “Remind me to call my mother” might be a one time thing or a continual thing in English. Greek can make the distinction, and here the language points to the fact that this is a continual behavior. Most of the essential truths of Christianity, most of the important commands we already know. Our problem is that we are quick and eager to forget. Thus we must be reminded, not always taught something new, but returning to the foundational truths and basic obedience.

The six items.

submissive to rulers and authorities

to be obedient ^

to be ready for every good work

to speak evil of no one

to avoid quarreling, be gentle

to show perfect courtesy towards all people

1. Submission to the state and ruling authorities. Cross references & . A Christian is a good citizen. A Christian understand the hierarchical nature of the world. Submits to governing authority because they believe in God’s overarching authority.

2. Obedience is also related to the ruling authorities and the state. Be subject to the laws. Odd revolution. Reverse revolution. Godliness and goodness is not constrained

Good works must be prepared for. Anticipated. Desire to good but have been left unable by your own lack of preparation.

Calvin says that the ill tempered carry with them a fire to kindle strife.

“towards all people” gracious towards those who are not gracious towards us.

Don’t Forget the Sin We Started In

Paul reminds them of their previous condition. What you’ve been rescued out of motivates godly living. It also provides a patience and gentleness to treat those who are still entangled in their former way of life.

We are gracious to the wicked because we were the wicked.

Severity didn’t draw you out of your sin, law didn’t draw you out of your sin, but rather the grace of God. We are severe against sin but it is always accompanied by compassion.

We must show to others the attitude that God has shown to us.

The Bible Knowledge Commentary 3:3

Paul never forgot the sinful condition from which he and his converts had been salvaged (cf. 1 Cor. 6:9–11; Eph. 4:17–24; Col. 3:6–7), and he reminded them of it once more. Instead of the gracious, Christlike people he was encouraging them to be, they once were just the opposite, being foolish instead of sensible, disobedient instead of submissive, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures instead of self-disciplined and ready for every good work.

Commentaries on the Epistles to Timothy, Titus, and Philemon Chapter 3

Thus we see that we must be humbled before God, in order that we may be gentle towards brethren; for pride is always cruel and disdainful of others.