Insist on Doctrine
Tuesday, June 29
This is a trustworthy saying, and I want you to insist on these teachings so that all who trust in God will devote themselves to doing good. These teachings are good and beneficial for everyone. (Titus 3:8)
Five times in the Pastoral Epistles, we find the phrase, “This is a trustworthy saying” (1 Timothy 1:15; 3:1; 4:9; 2 Timothy 2:11; Titus 3:8). It usually serves to emphasize the importance of the words that are to follow. Here, the phrase points back to verses 4-7.
Further, the faithful saying may be something of a creedal statement, a hymn, catechetical guidance, or liturgical material. Because of the importance of the words, they should be repeated, memorized, or even sung. They should also have a daily and personal application in our lives, and that is exactly what we see in the closing verse of this section.
We should affirm good works. This “trustworthy” saying and the words that make it up should be affirmed and affirmed constantly. Paul spells this out specifically: “I want you to insist on these teachings. . . . These teachings are good and beneficial for everyone.” These are words of truth, of divine origin, and we do a good work to teach them repeatedly (cf. Deuteronomy 6:7-9). A blessing for all is certain to occur.
Also, we should be active in good works. Those who have been regenerated and renewed by the Holy Spirit are now described simply as those “who trust in God.” And, because they have believed and do believe, they “will devote themselves to doing good.” Here’s the simple truth: If truth and doctrine are insisted on, those who believe in Christ will devote themselves to Him. You see, the new birth will result in a new life. Death is replaced by life. The flesh is captive to the Spirit. Evil works are overcome by good works. Such works are more assuredly good and profitable for everyone, saved and unsaved, the latter seeing the beauty of our new life and being drawn to the Christ who changed us, the Christ who can change them too! This is indeed a great reward for those of us who have been regenerated by the gospel of King Jesus.
Doing the Word
Be grateful to God for the gift of new birth.
Prayer
Dear Father, I thank You for the gift of new birth. Thank You for saving me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.