How does Titus 3:7 emphasize the importance of being "justified by His grace"? The Text in View “so that, having been justified by His grace, we would become heirs according to the hope of eternal life.” (Titus 3:7) Zooming Out: The Flow of Paul’s Thought • v. 3 – Our past: foolish, disobedient, enslaved to passions • v. 4 – God’s kindness and love appeared • v. 5 – Salvation not by works, but by His mercy, through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit • v. 6 – The Spirit poured out richly through Jesus Christ our Savior • v. 7 – Purpose clause: “so that” we are justified by grace and made heirs of eternal life Justified by His Grace—What It Means • “Justified” = declared righteous in God’s courtroom; guilt removed, righteousness credited (cf. Romans 3:24; 2 Corinthians 5:21). • “By His grace” = entirely a gift; no contribution from human effort (Ephesians 2:8–9). • Passive voice (“having been justified”) highlights God as the sole Actor. Why Grace Is Central 1. Cancels Every Boast – Romans 3:27: “Where, then, is boasting? It is excluded.” 2. Provides Absolute Assurance – Romans 5:1: “Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God.” 3. Showcases God’s Character – Exodus 34:6 calls Him “gracious”; justification puts that grace on display. 4. Fuels Holy Living – Titus 2:11–12: the grace that saves also trains us to deny ungodliness. Link Between Justification and Inheritance • Legal change (justified) leads to family status (heirs). • Galatians 4:7: “So you are no longer a slave but a son; and since you are a son, God has made you an heir.” • Eternal life is both present possession (John 5:24) and future hope (1 Peter 1:4). Practical Takeaways • Rest: Your standing with God is settled. • Worship: Grace magnifies God, not us. • Witness: Offer the same free grace to others (Acts 13:38–39). • Persevere: Hope of eternal life sustains obedience now (1 John 3:2–3). |
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