How does Titus 3:8 connect with Ephesians 2:10 on good works? Setting the Context • Both passages sit in letters written by Paul to believers, reminding them that salvation is wholly by grace yet always produces visible fruit. • Each verse follows a clear gospel declaration (Titus 3:4-7; Ephesians 2:8-9), then pivots to the purpose of good works. The Heart of Titus 3:8 • “This saying is trustworthy.” Paul underscores absolute reliability. • “Emphasize these things.” Good works are not optional extras; they must be taught repeatedly. • “Those who have believed God will be intent on engaging in good works.” Faith that saves is faith that serves—good works flow from genuine belief. • “These things are excellent and profitable for the people.” Good works bless both the church and the watching world. The Design of Ephesians 2:10 • “We are God’s workmanship.” Our new life is God-crafted, not self-made. • “Created in Christ Jesus to do good works.” The new birth comes with a new assignment. • “Which God prepared in advance.” Every act of obedience was foreseen and fitted into His plan. • “As our way of life.” Good works aren’t sporadic events; they form the believer’s daily walk. The Thread that Ties Them Together 1. Source: Salvation by grace (Titus 3:5; Ephesians 2:8-9) → Good works follow. 2. Certainty: Both verses use strong language—“trustworthy” (Titus) and “prepared in advance” (Ephesians)—showing God’s settled intention. 3. Purpose: Good works validate faith (Titus) and display God’s craftsmanship (Ephesians). 4. Benefit: They are “profitable” (Titus) and the very “way of life” God designed (Ephesians). 5. Motivation: Love for the God who saved us (Titus 3:4-7) compels cooperation with the God who shaped us (Ephesians 2:10). Why Good Works Matter • Reveal God’s glory—Matthew 5:16 • Confirm genuine faith—James 2:17-18 • Bear lasting fruit—John 15:8 • Silence critics—1 Peter 2:12 • Build up the body—Galatians 6:9-10 Practical Takeaways • Keep the order straight: Grace saves; works follow. • Look for the “prepared” works each day—opportunities God places before you. • Engage intentionally—be “zealous” (Titus 2:14) and “intent” (Titus 3:8) rather than passive. • Evaluate impact—pursue what is “excellent and profitable,” not merely busy. • Depend on Scripture—“equipped for every good work” (2 Timothy 3:16-17). Key Supporting Scriptures • Titus 2:14 – Christ “purified for Himself a people… zealous for good works.” • 2 Corinthians 9:8 – God supplies “every grace” so we “abound in every good work.” • Colossians 1:10 – Walk “worthy of the Lord… bearing fruit in every good work.” |
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