28: Doing God’s Works (Tit 3:1-15)

I.       The Basics

A.     Setting

Paul shifts his instructions from conduct for specific groups to conduct in general. He also broadens the context to interactions with all men, not just fellow believers. Paul’s instructions are followed by a convincing explanation of the basis for such instructions. He then advises Titus how to deal with dissension in the church and then ends his letter with a reminder, some personal instructions, and a farewell.

B.     Key Verse

            “This is a faithful saying, and these things I want you to affirm constantly, that those who have believed in God should be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable to men” (3:8).

C.     Did You Know…?

1. “Maintain” (3:8,14): The Greek word so translated has in it the thought of priority, such as “devoting oneself before all else to.”^3/74

2. “Genealogies” (3:9): “Jewish false teachers often expanded the Old Testament genealogical lists and interwove fanciful myths around the names.” ^3/74

II.    Observation

A.     Outline

(3:1-2)

(3:3-7)

(3:8-11)

(3:12-14)

(3:15)

B.     Key Words/Phrases

III. General Analysis

1. Which verses speak of good works? What does each of them say about our attitude toward good deeds?

IV.  Segment Analysis

A.     3:1-2

1. Why must we be subject to rulers and authority?

2. What does it mean to speak evil of someone? Give examples.

3. Illustrate what it means to be gentle and peaceable.

4. How do we show all humility to all men?

B.     3:3-7

5. According to this paragraph, what is the basis for the commands in the previous paragraph?

6. Compare this paragraph with 2:11-14.

7a. Why are our works of righteousness unable to save us?

7b. Why did Jesus save us?

7c. How does Jesus save us?

8. Explain the washing of regeneration and the renewing of the Holy Spirit.

9. How do the words “washing,” “regeneration” and “renewing” relate to the subject of good works?

10. “Not by works of righteousness” (5). Does this contradict the necessity of good works which Paul keeps emphasizing? Explain your answer.

C.     3:8-11

11. According to this paragraph, what are profitable and what are unprofitable?

12. How does doing good works profit men?

13. What are the two main ways to deal with divisions in the church?

D.     3:12-14

14. What two things does Paul ask Titus to do in verses 12 and 13? What can we learn from this?

15a. What was the final reminder about?

15b. Why must we make sure that we are not unfruitful?