How does Titus 3:5 emphasize salvation by grace rather than works? Setting the context “He saved us, not by works of righteousness that we had done, but according to His mercy, through the washing of new birth and renewal by the Holy Spirit.” Key phrase: “not by works” • The text explicitly rules out human effort as a contributing factor in salvation. • “Works of righteousness” includes any moral achievements, religious rituals, or charitable deeds we might present to God. • By saying “not by,” Paul establishes a sharp contrast: whatever is about to follow is the only real basis for salvation. According to His mercy • Mercy means God withholds the judgment we deserve and extends compassion we could never earn. • Grace and mercy are twin concepts—grace gives what we do not deserve; mercy withholds what we do deserve. • Ephesians 2:8-9 echoes this emphasis: “For by grace you are saved through faith, and this is not from yourselves; it is the gift of God, not by works, so that no one can boast.” • Romans 9:16 reinforces it: “So then, it does not depend on man’s desire or effort, but on God’s mercy.” The washing of new birth and renewal by the Holy Spirit • “Washing” pictures a decisive cleansing—sin’s stain is removed once for all (1 John 1:7). • “New birth” highlights regeneration, a divine act where God imparts spiritual life (John 3:3-8). • “Renewal” speaks of the Spirit’s ongoing transformative work (2 Corinthians 4:16). • Because regeneration is performed by the Spirit, not human hands, it underscores grace over works. Supporting Scriptures • Romans 3:24: “and are justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus.” • 2 Timothy 1:9: “He has saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace.” • Isaiah 64:6 reminds us that even our “righteous acts are like filthy rags,” making divine grace indispensable. Walking in the freedom of grace • Gratitude replaces striving—we serve because we are saved, not to become saved (Titus 3:8). • Assurance rests on God’s character, not our performance (John 10:28-29). • Good works follow as evidence, not a cause, of salvation (James 2:18; Ephesians 2:10). In Titus 3:5, every clause drives home one truth: salvation originates in God’s mercy, is accomplished by Christ, and is applied by the Holy Spirit—leaving no room for human boasting, only humble praise. |
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