We are in a sermon series called “Transformed by Grace.”

Actions Towards Others

In Titus we see the importance and connection of sound theology and righteous living.

Titus 3:1-2
Remind them to submit to rulers and authorities, to obey, to be ready for every good work, 2 to slander no one, to avoid fighting, and to be kind, always showing gentleness to all people.

There is a danger in the church today of always seeking new knowledge and information, while failing to do the things we already know to do.

Often we need to be reminded of what God calls us to do, even the simple things, because it is easy to get distracted and complacent in our walk with Christ.

1. Be submissive and obedient to governing authorities.

Romans 13:1-7
Let everyone submit to the governing authorities, since there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are instituted by God. 2 So then, the one who resists the authority is opposing God’s command, and those who oppose it will bring judgment on themselves… 5 Therefore, you must submit, not only because of wrath but also because of your conscience… 6 And for this reason you pay taxes, since the authorities are God’s servants, continually attending to these tasks. 7 Pay your obligations to everyone: taxes to those you owe taxes, tolls to those you owe tolls, respect to those you owe respect, and honor to those you owe honor.

1 Peter 2:13-17
Submit to every human authority because of the Lord, whether to the emperor as the supreme authority 14 or to governors as those sent out by him to punish those who do what is evil and to praise those who do what is good. 15 For it is God’s will that you silence the ignorance of foolish people by doing good. 16 Submit as free people, not using your freedom as a cover-up for evil, but as God’s slaves. 17 Honor everyone. Love the brothers and sisters. Fear God. Honor the emperor.

1 Tim 2:1-4
First of all, then, I urge that petitions, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for everyone, 2 for kings and all those who are in authority, so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity. 3 This is good, and it pleases God our Savior, 4 who wants everyone to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.

We submit to worldly authorities because we are first and foremost citizens of heaven; as Christians we care more about the Kingdom of God than our worldly kingdom/nation.

Titus 2:1-10(verses 4, 8, & 10)
…so that God’s word will not be slandered… so that any opponent will be ashamed, because he doesn’t have anything bad to say about us… so that they (their lives) may adorn the teaching of God our Savior in everything.

2. Be ready to do good deeds.

We seek to glorify God as he transforms lives through Gospel-centered discipleship, grace-filled fellowship, and loving & serving our neighbors to the ends of the earth.

Galatians 6:10
Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us work for the good of all, especially for those who belong to the household of faith.

Matthew 5:16
In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.

James 2:14-17
What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but does not have works? Can such faith save him? 15 If a brother or sister is without clothes and lacks daily food 16 and one of you says to them, “Go in peace, stay warm, and be well fed,” but you don’t give them what the body needs, what good is it? 17 In the same way faith, if it does not have works, is dead by itself.

3. Be peaceable and kind to everyone.

Titus 3:2
…to slander no one, to avoid fighting, and to be kind, always showing gentleness to all people.

Romans 12:14-19
Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse… 16 Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud; instead, associate with the humble. Do not be wise in your own estimation. 17 Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Give careful thought to do what is honorable in everyone’s eyes. 18 If possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. 19 Friends, do not avenge yourselves; instead, leave room for God’s wrath, because it is written, Vengeance belongs to me; I will repay, says the Lord.

*The command of Jesus is to love others.

Matthew 22:37-39
He said to him, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. 38 This is the greatest and most important command. 39 The second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself.