Titus, Part TwoSample

Doing good to people in need

“And let our people learn to devote themselves to good works, so as to help cases of urgent need, and not be unfruitful.” (Titus 3:14)

At the end of his letter, Paul mentions once more that believers should devote themselves to good works that are “profitable for people.” They should do good to those in need. Sometimes there are people within the local church who need help. This was, for example, the case in the early church in Jerusalem, where poor widows needed help to make ends meet. But we also need to look more broadly and be aware of the needs of others in our neighborhood, wider social circles, or society as a whole. Of course, we can’t solve everybody’s problems. But when we have the opportunity to help, we should be careful to do so. As Paul summarizes in Galatians 6:10, “As we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith.”

Paul says church members need to “learn” this. This is a process that requires training and knowing the ups and downs. Do not despair when your life is not full of good works. But do not give up, either. Ask God to fill you with His love, teach you the good works He has prepared for you, and then practice!