In his commentary on Titus 3:1-8, John Stott points out that the apostle Paul uses the expression "good works" (kala erga) fourteen times in the pastoral epistles (1 & 2 Timothy and Titus). That's quite a few occurrences, considering the brevity of these letters. But Paul is conveying to pastors the vital role of good works in the lives of God's people. Indeed, Paul tells Titus, "I want you to insist on these things, so that those who have believed in God may be careful to devote themselves to good works" (Titus 3:8).
Having considered all fourteen occurrences of "good works" in the Pastorals, Stott concludes that Paul seems to be emphasizing five points:
- The very purpose of Christ's death was to purify for himself a people who would be enthusiastic for good works (Titus 2:14).
- Although good works can never be the basis of salvation (Titus 2:5; 2 Tim. 1:9), they are the essential evidence of salvation (Titus 3:8, 14).
- It is therefore expected that all Christians will be "equipped" and "eager" to do good works (2 Tim. 2:21; 3:17; Titus 3:1; cf. 1 Tim. 2:10; 5:10; 6:18).
- Since pastoral oversight is itself a good work (1 Tim. 3:1), all Christian leaders should be conspicuous (easily recognizable) by the good works they do (1 Tim. 5:25; Titus 2:7). This behavioral pattern stands in contrast to the false teachers who "claim to know God, but ... deny him by their works" (Titus 1:16).
- It is above all by good works that the gospel is adorned (made to look attractive) and so commended to outsiders (Titus 2:9-10; cf. Titus 2:5).
No wonder God's people should "be careful to devote themselves to good works. These things are excellent and profitable for people" (Titus 3:8).
What good works will you do today?