In Titus chapter 3 the Apostle Paul reminds his young friend to \u2018affirm constantly\u2019 the doctrine of justification by God\u2019s grace. The free gift of God\u2019s righteousness imputed to sinners is to be faithfully declared and frequently repeated. It is the message we as needy sinners should demand from our preachers, and which we who are preachers should be determined to declare. Being \u2018justified by his grace\u2019 is at the very heart of the gospel message. If we are \u2018justified by his grace\u2019 there can be no element of our own works involved.<\/p>\n
Gospel preaching is sovereign grace preaching. If a preacher does not preach free, sovereign grace he is not preaching the gospel. Furthermore, if he does not affirm constantly this message he is failing in his purpose and duty to his hearers. Some churches have church statements of faith indisputably \u2018reformed\u2019 and are happy to boast their \u2018sovereign grace\u2019 credentials. Yet, justification by grace is rarely, if ever, heard from their pulpits. That will not do! Paul is saying that he, as an apostle of authority, will have the doctrine of grace affirmed constantly.<\/p>\n
We are saved, Paul tells us, by the mercy of God, cleansed by the blood of the Lord Jesus Christ through the washing of regeneration, and renewed in our heart and soul by the power of God the Holy Ghost. Observe how the apostle traces all our salvation back to the sovereign goodness of the Triune God. The soul of a believer must be made alive by God the Holy Spirit, our salvation depends upon it. Spiritual regeneration and renewal is the only ground we have for our hope of eternal life.<\/p>\n
Paul would have Titus affirm constantly the gospel of sovereign grace because it is this message that inspires and motivates a believer\u2019s good works. Good works are the fruits and effects of spiritual renewal by the Holy Spirit. \u2018For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them\u2019 (Ephesians 2:10). A believer\u2019s obedience does not flow from legal obligation but a grateful heart.<\/p>\n
The more we know of sovereign grace,<\/p>\n
The more we serve, and love, and praise.<\/p>\n
A believer\u2019s inspiration, motivation and enthusiasm for the glory of God comes from enlarged views of the goodness, kindness and mercy of God in Jesus Christ. If we would do good to the souls of men and women, boys and girls, let us affirm constantly the sweet doctrine of justification by grace, and perfect justifying righteousness by the blood and sacrifice of our Lord Jesus Christ.<\/p>\n