Titus: Do What God SaysSample

Be a Christian

What does it actually mean to be a Christian?

It’s not just a label, a church attendance record, or a moral code. In Titus 3, Paul gives us a compelling picture of what it means to live as someone saved by grace. He urges believers to submit to authorities, be kind, avoid slander, and be ready for good works—not to earn salvation, but because of what they’ve already received.

But Paul also reminds us of something deeper: why we live this way. It’s not because we’re naturally good. In fact, he says, we were once foolish, disobedient, and enslaved by our desires (v.3). That’s all of us. Whether our struggles are anger, addiction, pride, or fear; we’ve all lived under the weight of sin. But then something changed.

Jesus stepped in. Not because we deserved it, but because He is kind and merciful. Through Jesus, we are saved, washed, renewed, and filled with the Holy Spirit (vv. 4–6). This is what it means to be a Christian: someone who trusts Jesus, loves Jesus, and obeys Jesus. Not perfectly, but genuinely.

Being a Christian brings true freedom. Not the kind that says, “Do whatever feels good,” but the kind that sets us free from being ruled by our desires. The world may offer freedom without boundaries, but Jesus offers freedom with purpose. He frees us to say no to sin and yes to godliness (v.12). He frees us from shame and hopelessness, and He gives us grace, community, and an eternal future.

Being a Christian also means we live differently. Paul calls believers to be eager for good works—not just avoiding sin, but actively doing good (v.8). This includes working hard, avoiding foolish arguments, pursuing unity, and loving others in practical ways. Even in disagreements or conflicts, Christians are called to be firm in truth but gracious in approach (vv. 9–11).

Finally, being a Christian means we point others to Christ. We aren’t saved just for our sake—we’re saved to reflect Jesus to others. Paul ends his letter by encouraging the church to meet pressing needs and remain fruitful (v.14). In a world full of brokenness, selfishness, and division, the people around us need to see the hope and transformation that only Jesus can bring.

So today, let this be your reminder: Be a Christian. Walk with Jesus. Trust Him. Obey Him. And let your life reflect the mercy you’ve received.

Reflection Question: What’s one area of your life where you need to more fully live like someone who trusts, loves, and obeys Jesus?

Prayer: Jesus, thank you for saving me, not because of what I’ve done, but because of your mercy. Help me live in the freedom you give, eager to do good, and faithful to follow you in every part of my life. Make me a light to others, that they too might come to know you.

Going deeper

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