Diligent in Good Works: Embracing a Life of Purpose
We delve into the significance of good works in our Christian journey. As followers of Christ, we are called to live lives characterized by meaningful actions that glorify God and bless others. Our focus will be on the book of Titus, where the apostle Paul provides insights into the importance of being diligent in good works. Let's explore these passages and discover the rich blessings that come from a life devoted to good works.
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I. Be a People Diligent in Good Works (Titus 2:11-14)
In these verses, Paul highlights the transformative power of God's grace in our lives. Salvation not only redeems us but also empowers us to be zealous for good works. Our transformed hearts lead us to engage in actions that honor God and reflect His love to the world. Good works become an outpouring of our gratitude for the grace we've received.
II. Be Ready for Every Good Work (Titus 3:1)
Paul's exhortation in Titus 3:1 challenges us to be prepared at all times to engage in good works. Our readiness should extend beyond mere willingness; it involves intentional living that aligns with God's purposes. This readiness requires an attitude of openness to opportunities where we can be a blessing to others.
III. Be Careful to Maintain Good Works (Titus 3:8)
Paul emphasizes the importance of consistency in good works. Our commitment to maintaining good works signifies a continual dedication to the mission of Christ. Through consistency, we reflect Christ's character and bring lasting impact to the lives we touch.
IV. Learn to Maintain Good Works (Titus 3:14)
In Titus 3:14, Paul encourages believers to learn how to maintain good works. This implies that good works are not merely spontaneous actions but intentional choices we make as followers of Christ. Learning to maintain good works requires a teachable heart and a willingness to live out our faith consistently.
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V. Created Unto Good Works (Ephesians 2:10)
Ephesians 2:10 reminds us that we are "created in Christ Jesus for good works." Our salvation isn't just about personal redemption; it also involves being equipped and empowered for good works. God's creative work in us results in a life that naturally produces good works as a response to His grace.
VI. Faith, Not Meritorious Works (Ephesians 2:8-9)
Ephesians 2:8-9 emphasizes that salvation is by grace through faith, and not by our own merit or works. However, this truth doesn't negate the importance of good works. Instead, it shows that good works flow from a heart of faith and gratitude for what Christ has done. Good works are an outpouring of our response to God's grace, not a means to earn His favor.
VII. A People Zealous for Good Works
1. Good works are a divine demand
- God created us to do good works (Ephesians 2:10).
- The Greek word “ergon” means action, task, labor.
- As heavenly employees, we have an active assignment: to serve the Lord with our actions (Mark 13:34).
2. Jesus Is Our Model of Good Works
- Jesus said, “The works the Father gave me to do, those I do” (John 5:36).
- He didn't just teach, he did; and we are to imitate him (John 9:4; 17:4).
3. Biblical Examples of Zealous for Good Works
- Moses was mighty in works (Acts 7:22).
- Dorcas was rich in good works (Acts 9:36).
- Cornelius practiced generosity toward the people (Acts 10:2).
- The brothers in Achaia abounded in works (2 Corinthians 9:8).
- Timothy was instructed to teach the rich to be rich in good works (1 Timothy 6:18).
Are we poor or rich in good works?
Titus 3:8 – “Those who believe in God ought to be careful to be busy doing good works.”
True faith is always manifested in active obedience.
VIII. We Will Be Judged by Our Works
1. Christ's judgment will consider our works
- Matthew 16:27 – “The Son of Man... will reward each person according to his works.”
- Romans 2:6 – “He will repay each person according to his works.”
- 2 Corinthians 5:10 – We will all appear before the judgment seat of Christ.
2. There will be no valid excuses
Proverbs 24:12 – We will not be able to justify ourselves by saying, “I did not know.”
Today is the time to act. Tomorrow may be too late.
3. Our decision is key
Are we living as a people zealous for good works?
If we do, judgment will not be a cause for fear, but for reward.
IX. The Fruit of Good Works
1. We Glorify God
- Matthew 5:16 – “Let your good works shine... and glorify your Father.”
- Jesus glorified God with his works (Matthew 9:8; Luke 7:16).
2. We Do Not Seek Human Glory
Matthew 23:5 – The Pharisees did works to be seen. We do them to honor God.
1 Peter 2:12 – Our works should speak for themselves and bring glory to heaven.
3. We Bear Fruit as True Disciples
John 15:8 – “By this is my Father glorified, that you bear much fruit.”
Good works are not meant to save us, but to show that we are saved.
- 7 Consequences of the Change in Christ Colossians 3:5-17
- Born to a living hope 1 Peter 1:3
- Why are God's people on guard?
Conclusion:
The call to engage in good works is woven into the fabric of our faith. We are urged to be diligent, ready, and careful in our pursuit of meaningful actions that honor God and bless those around us. As we embrace a life characterized by good works, we participate in God's plan to bring transformation to our lives and the lives of others.
The harmony between faith and good works is a beautiful expression of God's grace in our lives. We are called to learn, maintain, and embrace good works as a natural response to the transforming power of God's grace. Our faith in Christ is the foundation, and our good works are the fruit that naturally grows from it.
