“Paul, a servant of God and an apostle of Jesus Christ, for the sake of the faith of God’s elect and their knowledge of the truth, which accords with godliness, in hope of eternal life…
“To Titus, my true child in a common faith:
“Grace and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Savior…
“Teach what accords with sound doctrine… Show yourself in all respects to be a model of good works, and in your teaching show integrity, dignity, and sound speech that cannot be condemned, so an opponent may be put to shame, having nothing evil to say about us…
“For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people, training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age, waiting for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to purify for himself a people for his own possession who are zealous for good works…
“Remind them to be submissive to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good work, to speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and to show perfect courtesy toward all people. For we ourselves were once foolish, disobedient, led astray, slaves to various passions and pleasures, passing our days in malice and envy, hated by others and hating one another. But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior…
“Let our people learn to devote themselves to good works, to help cases of urgent need, and not be unfruitful.” Titus 1:1-2,4-5; 2:1,7-8,11; 3:1-6,14
Paul’s greeting to Titus binds them together in a common faith and hope, and extends the grace and peace those make possible. He reminds him that teaching that accords forward with godliness also accords behind and underneath with sound doctrine. Living according to God’s word is possible according to His mercy in saving, regenerating, renewing, and sanctifying by His Spirit. Indeed, no good practice or righteous living is possible without inextricable connection to the Lord and His sovereign, benevolent purpose.
According: giving or granting someone; harmonious or consistent with; in agreement with
Many frustrations arise when God’s people attempt new resolutions and improved behavior without taking into account the accordings that must be in place for God’s work to take place. We might claim salvation according to His grace, but in daily reality lean on our faith as a mustered-up good work that can now produce fruit- as I wish and choose. Unless we establish a foundation on unchanging biblical doctrine that does not sway with cultural tides, we will go adrift, unmoored. And unless we acknowledge that all resolve for righteousness is for naught if not accorded with Christ’s gift and the power of God’s Spirit, passions and pleasures will lead us astray.
Teaching, conveying, reminding among each other are great helps in godly living. Have we acknowledged and put away foolishness? How tightly do we depend on God’s grace to live worthy of Christ’s sacrifice and our salvation? Where do we need to adjust thinking, determination, or surrender according to God’s truth?
Lord, may my words and living accord always with Your truth and glory.
As the rain and snow 