Titus 2:11-13

In the well-known song Amazing Grace the second stanza says, “ ‘Twas grace that taught my heart to fear, and grace my fears relieved. How precious did that grace appear, the hour I first believed.” This spiritual song teaches us a lesson that Paul taught Titus long ago.

Many view God’s grace through too narrow a scope. We see it as the refreshing peace and joy that comes with the forgiveness of sins. Or, others look at grace as simply being a gift waiting for us in eternity. Yet, God’s grace and love appears to us in this life in another, often forgotten form—teaching (Hebrews 12:5-11). Notice three things God’s grace teaches us in Titus 2:11-13.

First, the grace of God teaches us what we must leave. The text says we must “deny ungodliness and worldly lusts.” The term “deny” can also mean “disown.” Thus, the idea is we once laid a stake or claim on sin. Now, we are disowning the ownership of sin to take ownership of a new life in Christ.

For a good list of “ungodly” behaviors read Romans 1:18-32. If any of those are present in the life of a Christian then it is evidence of the rejection of God’s grace. If you truly want to accept God’s grace, then accept His teaching. In addition, notice 1 John 2:15-17 as it speaks of the “lust of the flesh, lust of the eyes and pride of life.” The Christian living in God’s grace will not be enticed by these worldly allurements. Otherwise, we reject God’s grace in favor of the world’s temporary pleasures.

Second, God’s grace teaches us how to live. We must “live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age…” (Titus 2:12). Living “soberly” refers to being free of intoxicants, but also exercising good judgment and clear thinking in situations. “Righteous” living will always be easier to attain if we live by God’s standard of right and wrong. “Godly” living is living by God’s standards, not man’s standards. As the Proverb writer states, “There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death” (Proverbs 14:12).

Finally, one of the great gifts of God’s grace is that it teaches us where to look. Our focus is not primarily on money or career-oriented goals. Instead, our goal is to get to heaven. Thus, we must always live and be prepared for the second coming of Jesus Christ when we all will be resurrected to face the judgment of God (John 5:28,29). Are you accepting God’s grace by living the way His Word has taught?

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