What role did Titus play in completing the act of grace? Setting the Scene • The churches in Macedonia had just displayed remarkable generosity for the struggling believers in Jerusalem (2 Corinthians 8:1–5). • Paul wanted the Corinthian church, who had promised the same aid a year earlier (8:10–11), to finish what they had started. • “So we urged Titus, just as he had begun, to bring to completion this act of grace on your part.” (2 Corinthians 8:6) Who Was Titus? • A trusted Gentile co-worker who traveled extensively with Paul (Galatians 2:1; 2 Corinthians 7:6–7). • Proven comforter and problem-solver in Corinth (2 Corinthians 7:13-15). • Example of integrity—Paul could say, “Did Titus take advantage of you? Did we not walk in the same spirit and in the same footsteps?” (2 Colossians 12:18). Titus and the Corinthian Collection • Organizer: Titus had already started the collection during an earlier visit (2 Corinthians 8:6). • Motivator: “He welcomed our appeal and, being very earnest, is coming to you of his own initiative.” (8:17). • Administrator: Accompanied by two respected brothers to guarantee transparency (8:18–22). • Finisher: Charged to see the project through—no partial obedience, but completion. Key Scriptures that Highlight Titus’ Role • 2 Corinthians 8:16-17—God put earnest care for Corinth in Titus’ heart. • 2 Corinthians 8:23—“As for Titus, he is my partner and fellow worker for your benefit.” • 1 Corinthians 16:1-4—Paul’s earlier directive for orderly giving. • Acts 11:29-30—Prototype of famine relief to Jerusalem. • Titus 1:5—Pattern of finishing assignments: “I left you in Crete to set in order what was unfinished.” Completing the Act of Grace Titus’ contribution can be summed up in three verbs: 1. Stirring—he rekindled zeal where enthusiasm had cooled. 2. Stewarding—he safeguarded the funds so no reproach could arise. 3. Securing—he ensured the Corinthians’ pledge became real help for Jerusalem saints. Lessons for Believers Today • God often uses dependable servants like Titus to turn good intentions into completed obedience. • Faithful administration of resources is itself an act of grace. • Zeal that begins well must end well; “finish the work, so that your eager willingness to do it may be matched by your completion of it” (2 Corinthians 8:11). • Integrity in handling God’s money protects the gospel witness and blesses those in need. |
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