Titus 2:11-14
Introduction:
1. Though some treat God’s grace as a license to sin (Jude 4), it is clear the true purpose in sending His grace is to uproot it (Romans 2:4; Titus 2:11-14; 1 John 2:1-2).
2. While most moral decisions are simple, some are difficult to discern the right path, so hopefully these six simple principles will offer some clarity (cf. Hebrews 5:14).
Discussion:
I. The Principle of Doubt
A. Many treat a lack of explicit commands as freedom to plot one’s own course.
B. Paul says all decisions must flow from faith (Romans 14:22-23), which comes from the word of God (Romans 10:17).
C. We must not engage in things with uncertainty, but we must test everything (1 Thessalonians 5:21).
D. But how do we eliminate such doubts?
II. The Principle of Prayer
A. What is our first step when we lack the clarity demanded above? Who do we ask first?
B. There is nothing wrong with seeking advice from the wise but let us begin with wisdom’s source.
C. Though we must use our minds in study, we must always come to the text prayerfully, seeking the Lord’s wisdom (1 Thessalonians 5:17; James 1:5)
III. The Principle of Uprightness
A. A key reason we must eliminate doubt is that uprightness, holiness, righteousness, etc. is our primary aim (Titus 2:11-14; 1 Peter 1:13-17).
B. This is also why we must seek His wisdom to discern what is right (Romans 12:1-2; Ephesians 4:17-24; 5:15-17; Hebrews 5:11-14).
C. Rather than ask if a thing is a “salvation issue,” let us ask if it meets His standard of uprightness.
IV. The Principle of Universality
A. A key part of uprightness is the scope of the deed’s benefit to God and humanity.
B. The greatest commands are to love God above all and our neighbor as ourself (Matthew 22:34-40).
C. We must first be sure that, universally, our deeds glorify and please God (1 Corinthians 10:31; Colossians 3:17).
D. Then we must be certain they promote the good of all (Matthew 7:12; Galatians 6:10; Philippians 2:3-4).
V. The Principle of Service
A. All of this is lived out in serving others as He did.
B. Jesus is the paradigm for selfless service (Matthew 20:28; John 13:1-11; Philippians 2:5-8).
C. All who would belong to Him must embrace the same attitude (John 12:26; 13:12-17; Philippians 2:3-4).
D. Any deed we consider engaging in must be in service to God and our fellow man.
Conclusion:
1. To be sure, much more could be said to further clarify our moral decision making.
2. Hopefully, these principles will help simplify the process and give us greater confidence that we are making the right decisions.
3. May we all set our hearts to be that special people He purified for His holy aims.
Further Food for Thought
1. How often have you encountered difficult moral choices in day-to-day living?
2. How have you gone about such decisions in the past?
3. What would you add to the principles above?
4. How can we avoid discouragement in facing difficult choices and thereby not falter?
5. How can we help one another in this pursuit?