“…the remarkable, undeserved grace of God that brings salvation has appeared TO ALL OF MANKIND.” (Titus 2:11) Just what does this remarkable, undeserved grace of God do for us? “It teaches us to SAY NO to GODLESS WAYS and SINFUL LONGINGS. We must CONTROL OURSELVES. We must DO WHAT IS RIGHT. We must LEAD GODLY LIVES IN TODAY’S WORLD.” (Titus 2:12)
SO, WE MUST SAY NO TO,
- GODLESS WAYS: (asebeia: a lack of reverence towards God) The definition of blasphemy, is the act of NOT showing reverence for God. A woman’s son was found to be a blasphemer, “the Israelite woman’s son blasphemed the name of the LORD and cursed…the LORD spoke to Moses, saying, “Take outside the camp him who has cursed; then let all who heard him lay their hands on his head, and let all the congregation STONE HIM.” (Leviticus 24:11, 13-14) So, do not show a lack of reverence toward God…
- SINFUL LONGINGS: (epithumia: longing for what is forbidden) “…the Lord knows how to deliver the godly out of temptations and especially those who walk according to the flesh in the LUST OF UNCLEANNESS and despise authority.” (2 Peter 2:9-10) They were living in defiance of God’s commands and His instructions on the right way to live. Peter calls them bold and daring, arrogant and WILLFUL, UNAFRAID OF THE CONSEQUENCES OF WHAT THEY WERE DOING and teaching.
AND WE MUST,
- CONTROL OURSELVES: Being self-controlled is the very foundation for living a life of righteousness and selflessness that REFLECTS JESUS AND BRINGS GLORY TO GOD. We are given the power to bring our sins under control!
- DO WHAT IS RIGHT: “But you, BE STRONG (so you may do what’s right) and do not let your hands be weak, for your work shall be rewarded!” (2 Chronicles 15:7)
- LEAD GODLY LIVES: Paul says, “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you PRESENT YOUR BODIES A LIVING SACRIFICE, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service.” (Romans 12:1)
Your Personal Pastor -Bill Stockham