And let ours also learn to maintain good works for necessary uses, that they be not unfruitful.
Titus 3:14
Dear Church and Friends,
As we continue to move through the season of Lent and seek to draw closer to our Savior, let us consider our work. In Titus 3 “good work” is front and center. You could say that it is the guiding theme of this closing chapter in Titus. We have it in several places:
- Titus 3:1 Put them in mind to be subject to principalities and powers, to obey magistrates, to be ready to every good work, The apostle goes on to give a partial list of good works in verse 2.
- Titus 3:5 Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; Here the works of a Christian are separated from the works that some would offer to God for His grace.
- Titus 3:8 This is a faithful saying, and these things I will that thou affirm constantly, that they which have believed in God might be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable unto men. Paul comes back to the works that believers are to maintain. The Pastor’s Letter treated this passage in the March 1st edition.
- Titus 3:14 And let ours also learn to maintain good works for necessary uses, that they be not unfruitful. Here he ends the chapter (as well as the letter) with another admonition to good works.
I love the way he says in verse 14, “let ours.” Of course right away we understand that he was speaking about the church. He just finished addressing the reprobate who were subverted and sinning. So he comes back to the believer, again, and reminds Titus to encourage more good work.
Notice the difference between this passage and the others. The similarities are there but then we have “for necessary uses.” The CSB has “for pressing needs.” Suddenly we find that good works included the labor of the hands. The church was not to be a lay-about bunch doing nothing, but was to be engaged in employment to as to produce for the necessary things of life.
This production drives away unfaithfulness. It guards against the temptation to engage in unprofitable, foolish questions, and arguments. When the hands have the ability to work for the Lord, no matter the occupation, everyday at work is a day of potential devotion.
Go forth then, and produce for necessary uses so that Christ will be glorified.
Music: The Champion by Carman.
This week for our music selection I have chosen a piece from Carman, who recently graduated to glory. Thank you, Lord for giving us musicians like Carman.
Prayer Requests: Please pray for the following.
- Linda Johnson, Knoxville, Tenn. Linda Johnson is a chaplain serving through Grace Resources in Knoxville, Tenn. “I have a 72-year-old Jewish neighbor being treated for pancreatic cancer. She is fairly open to the gospel of Jesus Christ. I am burdened for her salvation. Please pray that she and her husband will accept the salvation offered through Jesus.”
- Please pray for Jeanne Bond, Elaine Campbell, Jimmy Hoskins, Lois Lunsford, Barbara Smith, and Jerry Teegarden.
Consider supporting Creek Road Baptist Church through the Amazon Smile program. Use this link to select Creek Road Baptist Church as your designated charity. Once you have made this selection simply begin using Smile.Amazon.com (instead of using Amazon.com). No credits are available using just Amazon.com. Please contact the church office or Pastor Dave if you need help or have any questions.
Craig’s Catechism: The Third Part of Our Belief.
- Question 269: What follows upon our sanctification? Answer: A continual battle between the spirit and the flesh.
- Question 270: Who strengthens and keeps us in the battle? Answer: The same Spirit who also gives victory in the end.
- Question 271: What is this battle to us? Answer: A sure seal of the presence of the Holy Spirit.
All my best,
All that are with me salute thee. Greet them that love us in the faith. Grace be with you all. Amen.
Titus 3:15
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