The Grace of God and the Blessed Hope (Titus 2:11-14)
Introduction:
1. Two weeks ago we studied the information presented in vs.2-6. 2. These verses teach God's people in various age groups how to behave. 3. Vs.11-14 mention 2 subjects that will motivate us to behave properly: a. the grace of God (vs.11-12) b. the blessed hope (vs.13-14).
Discussion:
I. (vs.11-12) THE GRACE OF GOD
A. Vs.11 reminds us of how special God's grace is. 1. God's grace brings salvation. a. This great principle is also taught in Ephesians 2:8-9. b. Salvation from sin is only available because of God's grace. 1) Salvation cannot be bought because it is not for sale. 2) God gives salvation freely to those who receive it through faith (which includes obedience -- James 2). c. We are shown in Titus 3:4-7 when/how we are justified by God's grace. 2. God's grace that brings salvation has appeared to all men. a. This does not mean that all will be saved (Matthew 7:13-14). b. It simply means that God, through His grace, has made salvation available to everyone (John 3:16). 3. These 2 points made in vs.11 remind us of how special God's grace is. 4. Paul continued by showing . . . B. (vs.12) God's grace affects the way that His children live. 1. (vs.12a) God's grace teaches us to deny ungodliness and worldly lusts. a. Some activities that are considered ungodliness and worldly lusts are listed in 3:3. b. Some people have the idea that God's grace will overlook sinful behavior, but this is not true (Romans 6:1-2, 12-15). c. Ungodliness and worldly lusts are to be denied. d. The motivation for denying ungodliness and worldly lusts is God's grace. 2. (vs.12b) On the other hand, God's grace teaches us how to live. a. We are to live: 1) soberly: right with self (self-disciplined) 2) righteously: right with others (Matthew 22:39; 7:12) 3) godly: right with God (Matthew 22:37-38; 1 John 5:3). b. We are to live this way "in this present world." c. The motivation for living soberly, righteously, and godly is God's grace.
II. (vs.13-14) THE BLESSED HOPE
A. The blessed hope is the return of Christ who has done so much for us. B. According to vs.14,: 1. He gave Himself for us 2. He has redeemed us from all iniquity 3. He has purified us. C. One day Christ, who has done so much for us, is coming back. D. Vs.13 mentions the fact that we are to be looking for His return. E. Jesus illustrated the importance of looking for His return in Matthew 24:44-51. F. The blessed hope of the Lord's return will motivate us to behave properly.
Conclusion:
1. According to 2 Corinthians 5:17, those who are in Christ are new creatures. 2. Passages such as Titus 2:2-6 and Colossians 3:1-2 teach us how to behave as new creatures. 3. Today we have considered 2 important subjects that will motivate us to behave properly: a. the grace of God b. the blessed hope.
