The Marvelous Grace of God

Grace is one of the most beautiful concepts of religion. Unfortunately, it is also one of the most abused and misrepresented. What you have heard concerning grace may not be the same as what’s contained in scripture. We should always strive to define Bible terms in Bible ways. As Paul writes to Titus, inspired by the Holy Spirit, he details the marvelous grace of God.

First, we read of the close connection between grace and salvation. God’s grace brings salvation and has appeared to all men (Titus 2:11). As Paul states the idea elsewhere, “by grace you have been saved through faith” (Eph 2:8). Notice also that there is one powerful gospel of grace for all believers (Rom 1:16). Our God does not extend mercy to some, while requiring self-justification from others. We could never save ourselves from the penalty of sin. The death of Jesus stands as a sin-sacrifice for the whole world (1 John 2:2). In his loving kindness God desires all to be saved (1 Tim 2:4). 

Next, we see the teaching or message of grace. God’s grace instructs us to avoid wicked behavior and seek after the holiness of Christ (Titus 2:12-13). Here we see why God’s grace appearing to all, does not result in salvation for all. Many will disobey the teaching of grace rather than availing themselves of the marvelous gift of salvation. Our God is just and will not allow unrighteousness to go unpunished (Rom 2:2-3; 2 Cor 5:10). Every gift of God or showing of His power comes with a message, one that mankind is required to obey. Though many today want to believe otherwise, the Bible says grace teaches and that the gospel must be obeyed (2 Thess 1:7-9). 

Later in the text, we find the people of grace described. The church is made up of God’s own special people, working zealously for righteousness (Titus 2:14). God sees these diligent servants as His because they obey the teaching of grace. The people of grace are God’s New Testament priests, men and women whose minds are set on heavenly things (Col 3:1-3; 1 Pet 2:9). Together we are careful to maintain faithfulness to the grace of God through Jesus (Titus 3:8, 14; Rom 5:1-2). We hate every false way and shun worldly wickedness (Psa 119:104; James 4:4). God’s marvelous grace motivates our dedication to development in the faith (2 Pet 1:5-9). 

Titus and every one of God’s faithful messengers are directed to speak about this grace (Titus 2:15). Together with an obedient faith, grace enables salvation through Christ. Agreeing with God’s just nature, grace teaches righteous living. And strengthening the hearts of the faithful, grace motivates our commitment to truth in the church. Will you tell others the truth of the marvelous grace of God?