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Good Works According to Paul - Titus 3:8
Good Works According to Paul - Titus 3:8
13 times in Paul’s letters to Timothy and Titus, he writes concerning ‘good works’, and 6 of those are found in the letter to Titus!
We might begin with the fact that none of us have been saved because of such. Yet, none of us will be saved without such. Let me come back to that at the end of this article.
The thing with such good works is that they are conspicuous and show what manner of people we are (1 Tim. 5:25). By such, people will glorify God (Matt. 5:14-15).
The ungodly, while professing to know God, deny Him in the works as they are unfit for any good work (Titus 1:16).
Jesus redeemed us that we might become his own people who are zealous for good works (Titus 2:14)
Therefore, believers are to devote themselves to good works (Titus 3:8, 14), and God’s people are to ready for every good work (Titus 3:1)
Titus, as a preacher of the gospel, was to be a model of good works (Titus, 2:7).
Women wo profess godliness are to be ‘ ‘ in good works (1Tim. 2:10).
A widow is to be ‘put on the list’ of those whom the church will take care of IF she both has a reputation for good works and has devoted herself to every good work.
The rich are to be rich in good works (1Tim. 6:18).
The inspired scriptures, when known and practiced, equip believers unto every good work (2Tim. 3:16-17).
Only when one cleanses himself from ungodliness is he made ‘ready for every good work’ (2 Tim. 2:21).
Back then to our beginning, such good works can never atone for our sins! Only by the blood of Jesus and the forgiveness found in Him can we be atoned for, justified, redeemed, and forgiven. But, as we have opportunity to do good, we are expected to do good. When we know the right thing to do, and don’t do it, it is SIN and needs forgiveness. There are no good works that are ‘above and beyond the call of duty’ for believers!
Paul writes that it was not on the basis of deeds which we have done in righteousness, but because of the kindness, love, grace and mercy of God that we were saved, by the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Spirit. Such is ‘a trustworthy statement; and thus ‘those who have believed God will be careful to engage in good deeds. These things are good and profitable for men’ (read Titus 3:4-8!).
Are you devoted unto good works? What did you do – and who did you do it to?
Hugh DeLong
