TITUS 2:11-14: “For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age, looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from every lawless deed and purify for Himself His own special people, zealous for good works.” NKJV
OBSERVATION: What is grace for? When we think of grace we automatically think of the gift of salvation. We have been saved by grace through faith in our Lord Jesus Christ. Grace, the unmerited favor and love of God directed toward us, is given for far more than to bring us to salvation.
God’s grace not only saves us – it teaches us!
Paul tells Titus that the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. This was fulfilled when God sent Jesus into the world. John writes,
- “And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.” John 1:14 NKJV
Take notice of what John says. Jesus, the Word made flesh, came to reveal God’s glory. And, we beheld Him, full of grace and truth. God did not send Jesus to only reveal His grace unto salvation. The Father sent the Son to reveal His truth. Grace must always be accompanied by truth. While we all beheld Him, only those who received Him became children of God (John 1:12). And, only those who embrace His truth continue to grow and mature as His disciples.
- “…But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ…”. II Peter 3:18 NKJV
God’s grace has been given to us so that we might learn how to become like Christ. We can rejoice in our salvation. However, salvation is not the end, it is the beginning. I have witnessed many churches that make baptism the goal of all they do. They rejoice when they lead someone to Christ and that person enters the baptismal waters. Yet, they stop there and do not lead this person into the pathway of discipleship.
Grace calls us to grow!
- “For the grace of God has been revealed, bringing salvation to all people. And we are instructed to turn from godless living and sinful pleasures. We should live in this evil world with wisdom, righteousness, and devotion to God…”. Titus 2:11-12 NLT
Grace calls us to turn from godless living and sinful pleasures. It teaches us to grow in the wisdom of God. It empowers us to live in the righteousness of Christ. And, it leads us in the pathway of obedience and devotion to His calling for our life. Grace is not an excuse to fail.
Grace is the power to soar by faith!
Grace not only teaches and transforms us. Grace also redirects our priorities and focus.
- “…While we look forward with hope to that wonderful day when the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, will be revealed. He gave his life to free us from every kind of sin, to cleanse us, and to make us his very own people, totally committed to doing good deeds.” Titus 2:13-14 NLT
I remember when I was a small boy. For whatever reason, back then, I loved to dress up in a suit and bow tie. Mind you, I was 4 or 5, but I can still remember it. I knew that getting all dressed up meant two things. First, we were going to visit my Nannie and Poppy. Second, we were going to Clifton’s Cafeteria. And, why was this so important? Because, if I behaved, if I stayed clean, and if I ate my food – I would get to reach for a prize from the treasure chest on the way out!
As a believer, I should have the same attitude. I have been clothed in the righteousness of Christ. These clothes, provided by grace, remind me that I am preparing for Jesus’ soon return and my eternal life with Him. As I look for this glorious day I know that there awaits for me a treasure in heaven that He will give to all who call upon His name. This hope, this calling, gives me the strength to live through the power of grace. His grace teaches me each day how to live, wait, and hope for the prize of the high upward calling of God in Christ Jesus!
Grace is our teacher as we wait for Jesus to return!
Lord, forgive me for thinking that grace is an excuse to fail. I thank you that when I fail, and when I confess my sin, You are faithful and just to forgive me and cleanse me from all unrighteousness. However, let me view grace as the power of Your love to lift me to a new way of living. By Your grace, let me soar like an eagle and live a life that is pleasing to You as I wait for the treasure that You have prepared!
Lord, teach me by Your Grace!
In Jesus Name!
