So that having been justified by His grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life.Titus 3:7
The letter to Titus is called a Pastoral Epistle. Titus was a Greek/gentile convert of Paul’s who submitted to circumcision, a Jewish law, even though Paul said it was not necessary to achieve mercy and grace. Paul wrote this letter to Titus, who was in Crete, advising and him as he oversaw other pastors of the early church.
Titus’ task was to bring those who had salvation into a life worthy of The One who gave His life for theirs without getting tied up in ‘works verses grace’. We are not saved by our own works, but our works must reflect God’s image and His work in our life.
The word ‘justified’ comes from the word just and its cousin justice. In a court of law, justice is found when all facts have been given and truth has been discerned. The judge then declares what is just and seals it forever with the slam of his gavel. God’s justice is grace, a free from sin because I said so defense! God has declared us NOT GUILTY and ends all debate with His seal, the Blood of Jesus. Why? Because He chooses to.
The Cretans were a tough crowd. They were famous for taking the truth and making a mess of it, but this one thing Paul wanted them to understand! Faith alone brings about salvation, but our behavior afterwards is living proof of where our faith has taken us.
Love,
Gretchen