Immerse: Messiah - Flipbook - Page 259
3:1-15
T it u s
247
Remind the believers to submit to the government and its officers. They
should be obedient, always ready to do what is good. They must not slander anyone and must avoid quarreling. Instead, they should be gentle and
show true humility to everyone.
Once we, too, were foolish and disobedient. We were misled and became slaves to many lusts and pleasures. Our lives were full of evil and
envy, and we hated each other. But—
When God our Savior revealed his kindness and love, he saved us, not
because of the righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy.
He washed away our sins, giving us a new birth and new life through
the Holy Spirit. He generously poured out the Spirit upon us through
Jesus Christ our Savior. Because of his grace he made us right in his
sight and gave us confidence that we will inherit eternal life.
This is a trustworthy saying, and I want you to insist on these teachings
so that all who trust in God will devote themselves to doing good. These
teachings are good and beneficial for everyone.
Do not get involved in foolish discussions about spiritual pedigrees or
in quarrels and fights about obedience to Jewish laws. These things are
useless and a waste of time. If people are causing divisions among you,
give a first and second warning. After that, have nothing more to do with
them. For people like that have turned away from the truth, and their own
sins condemn them.
I am planning to send either Artemas or Tychicus to you. As soon as one
of them arrives, do your best to meet me at Nicopolis, for I have decided to
stay there for the winter. Do everything you can to help Zenas the lawyer
and Apollos with their trip. See that they are given everything they need.
Our people must learn to do good by meeting the urgent needs of others;
then they will not be unproductive.
Everybody here sends greetings. Please give my greetings to the believers—
all who love us.
May God’s grace be with you all.
