Titus 1:12-15
12 instructing us to deny ungodliness and worldly desires and to live sensibly, righteously, and godly in the present age, 13 looking for the blessed hope and the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Christ Jesus, 14 who gave Himself for us to redeem us from every lawless deed, and to purify for Himself a people for His own possession, zealous for good deeds. 15 These things speak and exhort and reprove with all authority. Let no one disregard you.
When it comes to grace there are some things to deny and some things to embrace. Remember, grace is bringing salvation to every man, and with salvation comes freedom. Freedom is not the right to do whatever you want, but the power to do what you should. Denying ungodliness and worldly desires heads the list of what to reject because fellowship with the world and its desires leads to bondage and the loss of freedom. The desires to indulge, acquire, or impress make up the system of world philosophy.
(1 John 2:15-17) Grace teaches us to deny ungodliness and these desires even as we receive instruction in sensible, righteous, and godly living. The focus on Jesus’ return (our blessed hope) will keep our motives pure and our commitment strong. Our salvation comes at a high price and its sacrifice on Jesus’ part calls for purity, devotion, and redemption from every lawless deed. Paul urged Titus to boldly proclaim this truth without shame or apology.
What disciplines do you observe in this text? Do you see anything about how you could develop them? What is the foundation of this truth?