Titus 3:2-8 As we constantly encounter those who are younger in the faith than we are, we need to remember how far we have come. As Paul say to Titus, "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." Titus 3:3. The verse pretty well describes the whole human race, lost, without Christ. Addicts don't have a corner on these things and everyone, at least from the human perspective, isn't involved to the same degree, but the basic truth is there. We remember, not to go back and retrace our steps, but to appreciate how far He's brought us and to help us to be patient with those who are newer in their walk with God. "When the kindness and love of God appeared, He saved us..." Verses 4,5. He saved us because of His mercy, not because we had done anything to earn His favor. Notice the process: "through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit." God poured out on us the Holy Spirit generously through Jesus Christ our Savior. We have been justified by His grace so that we can become heirs who look forward to eternal life. This brings us back to the first verse of chapter 3. Titus, whom Paul left as Overseer on Crete, is instructed to remind the people to be subject to and obedient to the civil authorities; to be ready and looking for opportunities to do what is good. To not distort the truth to make someone else look bad so that you'll look better. To live in peace and be considerate of others. He encourages a further step: to show true humility toward all men. Humility is graciously letting someone else take the place that you may feel that you deserve. We can do this because God knows our hearts and when we do right, He is pleased.

Because of His Mercy