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. But when the kindness and love of God our Saviour appeared, 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. – Titus 3:3-5
Somebody once said, “I didn’t know I was lost until I was found.” | WATCH ON YOUTUBE
Crete was the destination for this small but powerful letter from Paul to Titus, his trusted lieutenant. Crete a sizeable island had become a part of the Roman Empire. And Paul here is trying to reiterate the unchanging fundamentals of salvation.
Paul asks Titus to recall and remember. Before salvation, we were all foolish, disobedient and enslaved (v3). But by the mercy of God alone we are saved. We are saved not by our righteous works. We are saved only by the mercy of God through the washing and renewal by the Holy Spirit.
To become a Christian there are two distinct parts. We need to repent and turn to God, abandoning our old ways. And it is God who forgives us and empowers us through the Holy Spirit.
The basis for our salvation is the death and resurrection of Christ. There is the call of God to believe, followed by the promise of God to all who respond. God has already made the way of salvation clear for everyone. And His invitation is open. But we can take the invitation, only if we choose to turn to Him in faith and repentance.
Have you accepted His invitation?
Lord, I come to you, change my heart and renew me, I pray.
Extended Reading – Titus 1-3
Read through the Bible in One Year: CLICK HERE
Links to Related Resources
Bible Gateway | Enduring Word | Bible Study Fellowship | FRMS YouVersion Plans
I love the personal examples — they made the advice relatable.
I’ve read similar posts, but yours stood out for its clarity.
You’re doing a fantastic job with this blog.