May 30: Good Deeds

Steve Smartt is pastor of Moultrie Baptist Church in St. Augustine.

We generally appreciate sentiments of kindness shown to us by others. We are especially thankful when we recognize that what God did in Christ is the greatest kindness that could, or has, ever been shown. The appropriate response to God’s good deeds is for us to perform good deeds for others. This not only helps others, but expresses our gratitude to God for salvation.

It may seem to be a contradiction to declare that grace gives us freedom from the law, yet be urged to such good works. But in the context of exercising our freedom in the grace of God, Paul writes in his letter to the Romans, “Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification” (Rom 14:19). And in Galatians, he writes, “You, my brothers, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature; rather, serve one another in love” (Gal 5:13). As we look here at this next section of his letter to Titus, it is evident that Paul was concerned that the Cretan Christians be diligent in doing what was good. The challenge for each of us, as well, is to pursue goodness in every possible area of our lives in order to express our gratefulness to God for so great a salvation.

Beginning with a reminder to do good to all people and following it with reasons to support the charge, Paul urges that we should be intentional in our pursuit of goodness because of what God had done for us in Jesus Christ (3:1-7). This behavior of good deeds should include a willing submission to authority that is expressed in obedience and a readiness to be kind (3:1). Furthermore, we are to show this kindness by protecting the reputation of others and pursuing peace with all men through a heart of humility (3:2).

Motivating us to these good works is the kindness that we have been shown in Christ when there was no effort on our part to reconcile with God (3:3-7). In fact, Paul declares in Romans that the picture was very bleak (Rom 3:11-12). However, regardless of our depravity (3:3), God has called us out and rescued us by His own kindness (3:4), saving us “through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit” (3:5). This kindness has been “poured out on us generously” (3:6) in His grace giving us far more to be thankful for than we can ever imagine. The appropriate response to this generosity is not goodness out of obligation, but goodness to others out of thankfulness to Him (3:8).

As thankful Christians then, we are “to devote [ourselves] to doing what is good” (3:8), recognizing the contrast as it is highlighted in the following verses. Our good deeds should be for the benefit of others and not directed to ourselves (3:8). We should avoid foolish conversations that create unprofitable and useless arguments (3:9), while protecting the unity found in truth (3:10-11).

As my dad taught me, words are cheap. The real challenge is to put actions with our words (3:12-14). When Paul charges Titus with the needs of Zenas and Apollos, we are also challenged to “not live unproductive lives” but to do everything possible for the benefit of others (3:13-14). We must learn to devote ourselves to doing what is good, and not simply knowing that we should. “As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without deeds is dead” (James 2:26).

“The entire law is summed up in a single command: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself’” (Gal 5:13-14). We enjoy the love that God has shown us. Now then, as you have been loved, so love your neighbors through good deeds.