A reminder from Paul to the Cretan church: live as the person that God has already made you be. This list alone can seem like a series of boxes to check off to earn Paul’s favor, but as we will see in the remainder of Chapter 3 there is something much more magnificent going on in Paul’s reminder. Because of the Cretans’ newfound hope of eternal life, Paul instructs them to show it by devoting themselves to good works. These works lived out will consequently lead to the flourishing of all people - particularly the people on Crete. How might we heed the same call and live out our identity through good works?

[Titus 3.1-2]

3.1 Remind them to be submissive to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good work, 2 to speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and to show perfect courtesy toward all people.

[ WHAT ] is this passage saying and what is a key truth or thought that we learn?

+ Who benefits from this list of reminders?

+ Why did Paul feel the need to remind the people of these works? Think back to the previous passages in Titus.

[ HOW ] is the Lord calling me to action/obedience?

+ Is there sin to confess or a next step to take? How has it gone since last time?

+ In your perspective, how might someone in close proximity benefit from you living out these qualities?

[ WHO ] am I walking with and praying for to discover Jesus?

+ What is my next step?

+ Who can benefit from your good works? Be ready to live out your identity.