How can church communities encourage members to "insist on these things"? Building on a Trustworthy Saying “Titus 3:8: ‘This is a trustworthy saying. And I want you to emphasize these things, so that those who have believed God will be careful to devote themselves to good deeds. These things are excellent and profitable for the people.’” God’s Word calls leaders to highlight, repeat, and press home the call to good deeds until the whole church family knows it by heart. The following steps show how an assembly can help every believer gladly “insist on these things.” Clarifying What We Insist On • Good deeds that flow from genuine faith (Ephesians 2:10). • A lifestyle that shines Christ’s light to the watching world (Matthew 5:16). • Works that benefit both the household of faith and the wider community (Galatians 6:9-10). • Service rooted in sound doctrine, never a substitute for it (Titus 2:1). Why It Matters • Good deeds verify living faith (James 2:17). • They silence critics and draw honor to God (1 Peter 2:12). • They build up the church, meeting real needs (Acts 4:34-35). • They ready us for Christ’s return (Matthew 24:45-46). Practical Ways a Church Can Cultivate Holy Insistence 1. Regular Teaching – Preach and teach Titus 3:8 alongside passages like 2 Timothy 3:16-17 to root the call in the full counsel of God. – Illustrate with testimonies from Scripture and modern life so believers see fruit in action. 2. Visible Leadership Modeling – Elders, deacons, and ministry heads lead service projects, not just assign them (Philippians 3:17). – Celebrate stories of leadership sacrifice to normalize hands-on involvement. 3. Rhythms of Service – Schedule monthly, quarterly, and annual opportunities that fit all ages and abilities (e.g., meal trains, neighborhood clean-ups, prison outreach). – Pair new members with seasoned servants to transfer both skill and zeal (2 Timothy 2:2). 4. Clear Pathways – Post a simple, updated list of ministries with point-of-contact names. – Keep sign-up processes short and personal, removing the red tape that discourages initiative (1 Corinthians 14:40). 5. Ongoing Encouragement – Use Sunday announcements, mid-week emails, small-group huddles, and social media to highlight upcoming needs and victories. – Speak specific words of affirmation when someone steps up (Proverbs 16:24). 6. Accountability in Community – Small groups periodically review how members are using time, talent, and treasure to serve (Hebrews 10:24-25). – Leaders gently confront spiritual drift, reminding believers of their calling (Galatians 6:1). 7. Intentional Equipping – Offer workshops on evangelism, mercy ministry, financial stewardship, practical skills (e.g., carpentry for repairs, cooking for food distribution). – Ground each training session in Scripture so participants see every task as kingdom work (Colossians 3:17). Guarding Hearts While Doing Good • Maintain dependence on grace; works never earn favor (Titus 3:5). • Rest in weekly worship and Sabbath rhythms to avoid burnout (Mark 2:27). • Stay alert to pride; give glory to God alone (1 Corinthians 10:31). A Vision of a Fruitful Community When a congregation consistently teaches, models, and celebrates good deeds, “those who have believed God” become a people who naturally insist on them. The result is a church whose faith is alive, whose love is tangible, and whose witness is unmistakable—“excellent and profitable for the people.” |
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