Sometimes when reading a book of the Bible a phrase might keep popping up and grab your attention. It’s good when this happens to write down what you find about the phrase in each context in which it’s found. Then organize your thoughts into an outline.
While reading the book of Titus I noticed the phrase, “do what is good,” or something close to that, is mentioned 8 times. So I wrote down what each reference says.
In chapter 1:8 it says an Elder in the church should “Love what is good.” 1:16 mentions false teachers and says among other things they are “unfit for doing anything good.” 2:3 says older women are to teach younger women “what is good.” 2:7 challenges Titus to be an example to younger men by “doing what is good.” 2:14 says the objective Jesus Christ has in mind as He works in our hearts is to make us “eager to do what is good.” 3:1 challenges Titus to remind believers “to be ready to do whatever is good.” 3:8 says those who have trusted in God should “be careful to devote themselves to doing what is good.” Finally 3:14 says, “Our people must learn to devote themselves to doing what is good, in order that they may provide for daily necessities and not live unproductive lives.”
Having collected the information, read the book again and reflect on how this emphasis on “doing what is good” is integrated into the whole letter. Then try correlating your thoughts into an outline so you can remember what you’ve learned. Finally, crystallize your thoughts into applications you can make to your life.
