What is the meaning of Titus 3:1? Remind the believers Paul tells Titus to keep essential truths before God’s people: “Remind the believers” (Titus 3:1). Even mature Christians need repetition, just as Peter writes, “I will always remind you of these things” (2 Peter 1:12) and Paul exhorts Timothy, “Keep reminding God’s people” (2 Timothy 2:14). Regular reminders: • Guard us from drift (Philippians 3:1). • Reinforce daily application, not mere head knowledge (James 1:22). Pastors must faithfully repeat core duties; believers are wise to welcome it. to submit to rulers and authorities Christians are to place themselves under civil structures God ordains. “Be subject to the governing authorities” (Romans 13:1). Peter echoes, “Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human institution” (1 Peter 2:13–15). Submission means: • Respectful attitude toward leaders (Acts 23:5). • Recognition that God uses government to restrain evil and reward good (Romans 13:3–4). When commands clash with God’s law, we obey God first (Acts 5:29), yet maintain respect (Daniel 3; Acts 4). to be obedient Beyond an inner posture, believers actively comply with lawful directives. Jesus modeled this by paying taxes and teaching, “Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s” (Matthew 22:21). Practical obedience includes: • Paying taxes honestly (Romans 13:6–7). • Following workplace and civic laws (1 Thessalonians 4:11–12). • Praying for authorities so we may live quiet, godly lives (1 Timothy 2:1–2). Obedience springs from transformed hearts “zealous for good works” (Titus 2:14). ready for every good work Submission is not passive; it positions us for action. Paul later urges, “Our people must learn to devote themselves to good works” (Titus 3:14). Readiness involves: • Availability—margin in time and energy (Luke 10:33–35). • Generosity—open hands with resources (1 Timothy 6:18). • Initiative—meeting needs without delay (Galatians 6:10). • Excellence—serving as unto the Lord (Colossians 3:23). Good works do not save (Titus 3:5) but flow from salvation, fulfilling “created in Christ Jesus for good works” (Ephesians 2:10). summary Titus 3:1 urges continual reminders so believers live under civil authority with obedient hearts and eager hands. Respectful submission honors God’s design for government, protects the church’s witness, and keeps us poised for every opportunity to serve others in Christ’s name. |
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