Titus: Grace Precedes Obedience - Week 2 (Titus 2:1-10)
Titus 2:1-10
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Titus 2:1-10
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Titus 2:1-10 〰️ Titus 2:1-10 〰️
This week's passage opens with a very crucial word, "But." Paul writes this to contrast those within the Cretan culture and those who are to be set apart in Christ. In 1:10-16, Paul writes of the influence that the people of Crete have and that their way of life is destructive and harmful. "But," Paul writes, "you are to proclaim things consistent with sound teaching." (v1).
Paul then shares how men and women of every generation can bring glory to the Lord and live as witnesses for Christ. The heart behind this passage is not to give strict rules or a to-do list, but a framework for what the fruit of a follower of Jesus should look like. In His sermon on the mount, Jesus spoke about those who enter the Kingdom, saying, "Every good tree produces good fruit, but a bad tree produces bad fruit. A good tree can't produce bad fruit; neither can a bad tree produce good fruit. Every tree that doesn't produce good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. So you'll recognize them by their fruit." (Matthew 7:17-20).
If we read ahead two verses to v11-12, this is where we find the exclamation point on today's passage, and the onus of this series in Titus. God's grace comes before and informs our obedience. We strive to live in the ways written of in Titus 2:1-10, not because we desire to earn our salvation or favor before God, but because we love Him. As a child cleans his room because he loves his father, we walk in obedience because of our love for God and because of what He's done for us.
Discussion Questions
Could someone read Titus 1:10-16 for us?
What stood out to you from the passage?
Does this passage remind you of another part of Scripture?
Do you have any questions?
What are some of the Christ-like characteristics seen here in this passage?
Who is Paul speaking to in this passage?
What characteristics does Paul say they should strive for?
Our journey through Titus focuses on how grace precedes obedience. How does that inform the way we read and apply this passage?
What are some similarities or differences between the way Paul describes how these people should live?
Are there any characteristics listed here that you feel unable to meet on your own? What might it look like to surrender that to the Lord?