September 27, 2023 | Be On Mission
The Hope of Eternal Life
Scripture: Titus 3(NIV)
1 Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good, 2 to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and always to be gentle toward everyone.
3 At one time we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another. 4 But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, 5 he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, 6 whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, 7 so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life. 8 This is a trustworthy saying. And I want you to stress these things, so that those who have trusted in God may be careful to devote themselves to doing what is good. These things are excellent and profitable for everyone.
9 But avoid foolish controversies and genealogies and arguments and quarrels about the law, because these are unprofitable and useless. 10 Warn a divisive person once, and then warn them a second time. After that, have nothing to do with them. 11 You may be sure that such people are warped and sinful; they are self-condemned.
12 As soon as I send Artemas or Tychicus to you, do your best to come to me at Nicopolis, because I have decided to winter there. 13 Do everything you can to help Zenas the lawyer and Apollos on their way and see that they have everything they need. 14 Our people must learn to devote themselves to doing what is good, in order to provide for urgent needs and not live unproductive lives.
15 Everyone with me sends you greetings. Greet those who love us in the faith.
Grace be with you all.
Devotional
This last chapter of the letter to Titus is full of tremendous wisdom. It is worthy of deep study and reflection. But today, let’s dwell on just a few phrases. Grab a notepad or your phone and record your answers to some simple, but profound questions.
“When the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared…”
How has God shown you kindness?
How has God shown you love?
“He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior…”
How has the Holy Spirit washed you with rebirth and renewal?
How has Jesus been generous to you?
“…having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life.”
How has the Father in heaven made you an heir?
How has He given you hope?
Poem
Be Ready
Do you have your knapsack packed up?
Are you set to face the day?
Share the gospel with your people?
Walk the path of narrow way?
Do you have your manual open?
A good Scout set for the trail?
All prepared for situations
Faced to meet all in travail?
Take the oath of full redemption
Set your feet on mountain’s path
And be ready, good to foster
Share upon the Lord’s behalf
