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September 13 - The Book of Titus
For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men, 12 teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age, 13 looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, 14 who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from every lawless deed and purify for Himself His own special people, zealous for good works. (Titus 2:11-14)
The grace of God is far more than His unmerited favor in saving sinners. According to these verses, grace is also God's divine teacher. It not only rescues us from the penalty of sin but also trains us to live lives that honor Christ. The Apostle Paul writes, "For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men, teaching us..." (Titus 2:11–12). Saving grace is transforming grace. Those who have truly experienced God's grace will increasingly reflect the character of Christ.
First, grace teaches us what to reject. Paul says that grace teaches us to deny "ungodliness and worldly lusts." The Christian life is not simply about adding religious activities; it is about turning away from everything that dishonors God. Ungodliness is living as though God does not matter, while worldly lusts are sinful desires that compete for our affection. Grace gives believers both the desire and the power to say "no" to sin. This is not legalism. Legalism depends upon human effort, while grace produces willing obedience through a changed heart.
Second, grace teaches us how to live. Paul says we should live "soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age." To live soberly means exercising self-control and sound judgment over our own lives. To live righteously means treating others with honesty, fairness, and love. To live godly means maintaining a close relationship with God through worship, prayer, and obedience. Grace touches every area of life; our thoughts, words, actions, relationships, and priorities.
Third, grace teaches us to live with hope. Verse 13 tells believers to look for "the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ." Christians are not simply looking back to the cross; they are also looking ahead to Christ's return. This blessed hope motivates holy living. Those who expect to meet Christ desire to live in a way that pleases Him. The anticipation of His coming gives strength during trials and perseverance in faithful service.
Finally, grace teaches us why Christ saved us. Verse 14 declares that Jesus "gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from every lawless deed and purify for Himself His own special people, zealous for good works." Christ's death accomplished more than forgiveness. He redeemed us from sin's bondage, purified us as His treasured possession, and created within us a passion for good works. Good works do not earn salvation; they are the evidence of genuine salvation. A believer transformed by grace will naturally desire to serve others and glorify God.
Theses verses remind us that grace is not passive. It is an active instructor shaping believers into the likeness of Christ. Grace teaches us to reject sin, pursue holiness, anticipate Christ's return, and abound in good works. The same grace that saves also sanctifies. Every day we sit in the classroom of God's grace, learning how to live as faithful disciples until our Savior returns. May we be eager students, allowing His grace to mold our lives so that the world may see the transforming power of the gospel.