Working while Waiting. Titus 2:13-15.
Waiting for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Saviour Jesus Christ, Who gave himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to purify for himself a people for his own possession who are zealous for good works. Declare these things; exhort and rebuke with all authority. Let no one disregard you.
Dear Royal Priesthood,
We are people of the future. Our destiny beckons and our present lives must always take into account the transitory nature of life here on earth.
Revelation (v. 13). We anticipate the appearance of our Lord Jesus in his glory. In this world, people seek to glorify themselves and it is easy to fall into the same trap. But the real glory is coming. Paul here refers to Christ as our “great God and Saviour,” a clear indication of Christ’s divinity.
Redemption (v. 14). Slavery was common in Paul’s time, as we have seen earlier. To have a slave set free, one had to pay. This fee was the redemption price. Christ paid with his own life to set us free from slavery to sin. Christ’s intention was that those he redeemed would become his own and would be driven by a passion for good works. The main focus of salvation is not to escape from hell but a life of righteousness to God.
Rebuke (v. 15). Knowing the above, Titus is to declare the demands of the gospel authoritatively. He is to ensure that what he says is not disregarded by anyone. The word of God has the authority to judge all human attitudes and behavior, so we need not be apologetic when we declare its truth. Let the hearer deal with the implications.
Your Loving Pastor Chris.