IV.
We took time in the last post to consider the before/after contrast Paul presents us in this passage.

Today, let’s pay attention for the positive aspects of how he describes those he calls “heirs.”

V.
Titus 3:3-11 (NRSVue)

For we ourselves were once foolish, disobedient, led astray, slaves to various passions and pleasures, passing our days in malice and envy, despicable, hating one another. But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of any works of righteousness that we had done, but according to his mercy, through the water of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit. This Spirit he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs according to the hope of eternal life. The saying is sure.

I desire that you insist on these things, so that those who have come to believe in God may be careful to devote themselves to good works; these things are excellent and profitable to everyone. But avoid stupid controversies, genealogies, dissensions, and quarrels about the law, for they are unprofitable and worthless. After a first and second admonition, have nothing more to do with anyone who causes divisions, since you know that such a person is perverted and sinful, being self-condemned.

VI.
Would you say our focus passage begins on a heavily negative note?

If this is the situation of those who are not yet “heirs,” how would you express this as positive aspects of the life that awaits those who are “heirs according to the hope of eternal life”?

Spend some time with this passage and notice what else Paul claims characterizes the life of those who are “justified by his grace.”

charles
{ubi caritas et amor, Deus ibi est}