In our last visit we began a study of the recurring theme in the book of Titus: doing what is good. We saw that some are unfit for doing what is good. God, however, wants us to be ready to do what is good. In fact, His ultimate objective is that we are eager to do what is good.
Now let’s look at the fourth point Paul makes regarding this theme. As our lives become more and more characterized by doing what is good we need to help other Christians learn to devote themselves to doing what is good. Older women are to teach younger women and mature men are to teach younger men, primarily by example.
When the church is characterized by doing what is good toward each other as well as toward unbelievers outside the church, there will be a spiritual magnetism that will draw many unbelievers to an interest in and commitment to Christ. That is what Jesus meant when He said in Matthew 5:16, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.”
Peter makes the same point in 1st Peter 2:12, “Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us.”
Always remember the right order. Titus 3:5 says, “He saved us, not because of righteous (or good) things we had done, but because of his mercy…stress these things, so that those who have trusted in God may be careful to devote themselves to doing what is good.” We are saved to serve. We experience God’s equipping grace so we can equip others.
