Wednesday 12 November 2008
- Bible Book:
- Titus
"But when the goodness and loving-kindness of God our Saviour appeared, he saved us, not because of any works of righteousness that we had done, but according to his mercy, through the water of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit." (v.4-5)
Background
In this letter to Titus, Paul compares life before Christ withthe new life that is possible by the mercy of God. Disobedience isreplaced by obedience; those who hated one another now speak evilof no one; malice and envy are converted into gentleness andcourtesy.
Paul describes this transformation as a "rebirth". It is notsomething which can be earned or achieved. It is a gift fromGod.
The Greek word translated as "loving kindness" is 'philanthropia',which literally means 'love for humankind' (philanthropy). God'slove for humankind is the source of our salvation. This truth isalso proclaimed in the oft-quoted verse from John's Gospel - "ForGod so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyonewho believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life"(3:16).
This verse is part of Jesus' conversation with Nicodemus (
Salvation is not a reward for good works. Nevertheless, Christiandisciples seek to be philanthropists as a way of responding to theloving-kindness of God towards them and offering this love toothers. "Be ready for every good work" is a key part of Paul'sletter to Titus.
To Ponder
How obedient are you? When have you found itdifficult to be obedient? Why?
How have you experienced transformation andrebirth in your life?
Who are the most active philanthropists in yourcommunity?