Heirs of Eternal Life

Paul writes: Remind them to be in subjection to rulers and to authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good work. Believers should speak evil of no one, not be quarrelsome, but be gentle, showing all humility toward all people.

Paul explains why. We were once foolish, disobedient, and deceived. We served wrong desires and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, hating one another. But when the kindness of God our Savior and his love toward mankind appeared, He saved us. Paul says it was not by our own good deeds, but by His mercy. God washed us and gave us new birth. The Holy Spirit renewed us, a gift God gave generously because of what Jesus our Savior did. Being justified by His grace, we became heirs with the hope of eternal life.

Paul calls this a faithful saying and wants Titus to insist on it, so that believers will be careful to maintain good works. He tells Titus to avoid foolish questions and quarrels, because they are useless. After a first and second warning, Titus should avoid a person who keeps causing division. Paul plans to send Artemas or Tychicus and asks Titus to come to Nicopolis. He wants believers to learn to do good works that meet real needs, so they will not be unfruitful.