Titus 2:12
Verse
Context
God’s Grace Brings Salvation
11For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to everyone.12It instructs us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live sensible, upright, and godly lives in the present age,13as we await the blessed hope and glorious appearance of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ.
Sermons
Leonard Ravenhill
Joseph Alleine
Steve Gallagher
Rolfe Barnard
Paris Reidhead
Phil Beach Jr.Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Teaching us, that, denying, etc. - Παιδευουσα· Instructing us as children are instructed. Christ is the great teacher; and men, in order to learn, must become his disciples - must put themselves under his tuition, and learn of him. Denying ungodliness - Ασεβειαν· All things contrary to God; whatever would lead us to doubt his being, deny any of his essential attributes; his providence or government of the world, and his influence on the souls of men. Every thing, also, which is opposed to his true worship; theoretical and practical atheism, deism, and irreligion in general. Worldly lusts - Such desires, affections, and appetites, as men are governed by who have their portion in this life, and live without God in the world. Gluttony, drunkenness, lasciviousness, anger, malice, and revenge; together with the immoderate love of riches, power, and fame. We should live soberly - Having every temper, appetite, and desire, under the government of reason, and reason itself under the government of the Spirit of God. Righteously - Rendering to every man his due, injuring no person in his body, mind, reputation, or property; doing unto all as we would they should do to us; and filling up the duties of the particular stations in which it has pleased God to fix us, committing no sin, omitting no duty. And godly - Ευσεβως. Just the reverse of what is implied in ungodliness. See above. In this present world - Not supposing that any thing will be purified in the world to come that is not cleansed in this. The three words above evidently include our duty to God, to our neighbor, and to ourselves. 1. We are to live soberly in respect to ourselves. 2. Righteously in respect to our neighbor. And 3. Godly, or piously, in respect to our Maker.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Teaching--Greek, "disciplining us." Grace exercises discipline, and is imparted in connection with disciplining chastisements (Co1 11:32; Heb 12:6-7). The education which the Christian receives from "the grace" of God is a discipline often trying to flesh and blood: just as children need disciplining. The discipline which it exercises teaches us to deny ungodliness and worldly lusts, and to live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world (Greek, "age," or course of things) where such self-discipline is needed, seeing that its spirit is opposed to God (Tit 1:12, Tit 1:16; Co1 1:20; Co1 3:18-19): in the coming world we may gratify every desire without need of self-discipline, because all desires there will be conformable to the will of God. that--Greek, "in order that"; the end of the "disciplining" is "in order that . . . we may live soberly," &c. This point is lost by the translation, "teaching us." denying . . . lusts-- (Luk 9:23). The Greek aorist expresses "denying once for all." We deny "worldly lusts" when we withhold our consent from them, when we refuse the delight which they suggest, and the act to which they solicit us, nay, tear them up by the roots out of our soul and mind [ST. BERNARD, Sermon 11]. worldly lusts--The Greek article expresses, "the lusts of the world," "all worldly lusts" [ALFORD], (Gal 5:16; Eph 2:3; Jo1 2:15-17; Jo1 5:19). The world (cosmos) will not come to an end when this present age (aeon) or course of things shall end. live soberly, righteously, and godly--the positive side of the Christian character; as "denying . . . lusts" was the negative. "Soberly," that is, with self-restraint, in relation to one's self: "righteously" or justly, in relation to our neighbor; "godly" or piously, in relation to God (not merely amiably and justly, but something higher, godly, with love and reverence toward God). These three comprise our "disciplining" in faith and love, from which he passes to hope (Tit 2:13).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Who gave himself for us,.... Not another, or another's, but himself; not merely his own things, but his own self; not the world, and the riches of it, not gold and silver, and such like corruptible things, as the price of redemption; not the cattle on a thousand hills for sacrifice; not men nor angels, but himself; all that belong to him, all that is near and dear, his name, fame, credit, and reputation; his time, strength, and service: all the comforts of life, and life itself; his whole manhood, soul, and body, and that as in union with his divine person; which he gave into the hands of men, and of justice, and to death itself, to be a ransom price of his people, and for a propitiation and sacrifice for their sins, to be paid and offered in their room and stead: not for all mankind, but for many; for us, for all the elect of God, for the church; and who are represented when he gave himself, or died for them, as ungodly, sinners, and enemies: this was a free and voluntary gift, and is an unspeakable one; who can say all that is contained in this word "himself?" it is an instance of the greatest love, of love that passeth knowledge; God, because he could swear by no greater, swore by himself; and Christ, because he could give no greater gift, nor any greater instance of his love, gave himself, for the following ends and purposes: that he might redeem us from all iniquity: sin brings into bondage and, slavery, redemption is a deliverance from it; sin binds guilt upon the sinner, and lays him under obligation to punishment, and renders him liable to the curse and condemnation of the law; Christ was made sin, and a curse for his people, that he might redeem them from both, and deliver them from the punishment due to sin; which he has done by bearing it in his own, body on the tree, whereby he has redeemed them from all iniquity, that so it shall not be their ruin, or they come into condemnation on account of it; even from original sin, and from all actual transgressions; from all which his blood cleanses, and his righteousness justifies, and which God, for his sake, freely and fully forgives. Christ was called to this work by his Father, to which he agreed; and the plan of redemption being drawn in the everlasting council, and the whole adjusted and fixed in the covenant of peace; promises and prophecies were given out of it, and in the fulness of time Christ was sent, and came to effect it; and he has obtained eternal redemption for us, through the price of his own blood, which could have never been wrought out by any creature; and wherein all the divine perfections are glorified and is a plenteous and complete one; it includes in it, or connects with it, the blessings of justification, peace, pardon, adoption, and eternal life. It follows as another end of Christ's giving himself, or what is a branch of redemption, or consequent upon it, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works; all mankind are filthy and unclean by nature, in all the powers and faculties of their souls; nor can they cleanse themselves from their impurity of flesh and spirit, by anything that they can do: Christ has a peculiar people among these, a church whom he loves, and for whom he has given himself, that he might sanctify and cleanse them from their sins; which he has done by shedding his blood for them, and washing them in it, which cleanses from all sin, and he has purified them unto himself, for his own use and service, for his pleasure and delight, and to his glory; that they might be a proper habitation for him now; and that they might be made ready for him, to have the marriage between, him and them consummated; and that they might be presented to himself a glorious church, without spot or wrinkle, and be with him, both in the new Jerusalem state, into which nothing that defiles, or is defiled, enters, and in heaven, to all eternity. Now these people, for whom Christ has given himself, and whom he has redeemed and purifies, are a "peculiar people"; for whom Christ has a peculiar love, in whom he takes a peculiar delight, and to whom he grants peculiar nearness to himself, and bestows peculiar blessings on them, and makes peculiar provisions for them, both for time and eternity; these are Christ's own, his possession, his substance, what he has a special right to by his Father's gift, his own purchase, and the conquest of his grace; and they are a distinct and separate people from all others, in election, redemption, effectual calling, and in Christ's intercession, and will be in the resurrection morn, at the day of judgment, and to all eternity; and they are, as the word also signifies, an excellent and valuable people; they are Christ's portion and inheritance; they are his peculiar treasure, his jewels, whom, as such, he values and takes care of. The Syriac version renders it, "a new people". And they who are redeemed and purified by Christ, through the power of his grace upon them, become a people "zealous of good works"; not in order to their justification and salvation, but in obedience to the will of God, and to testify their subjection and gratitude to him, and for his honour and glory, and for the credit of religion, and the good of men, These not only perform them, but perform them from principles of truth and love, and with a zeal for the glory of God, and the honour of his Gospel; and with an holy emulation of one another, striving to go before, and excel each other in the performance of them.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
2:12 we are instructed: The emphasis of this instruction falls on the positive virtues: wisdom, righteousness, and devotion to God. In Greco-Roman writings, these three virtues represent virtuous conduct in general. These virtues counter the Cretan vices listed in 1:12 and are transformed into thoroughly Christian qualities (see 2:13). • Paul exhorts the Cretans to bring these virtues to life, in order to make plain to their compatriots that a virtuous life derives only from God’s grace in Jesus Christ.
Titus 2:12
God’s Grace Brings Salvation
11For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to everyone.12It instructs us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live sensible, upright, and godly lives in the present age,13as we await the blessed hope and glorious appearance of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Christ Came to Make Men Holy
By Leonard Ravenhill3.5K1:06:31HolinessMAT 6:33LUK 6:31PHP 2:14TIT 2:9TIT 2:121PE 2:12In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of Christians being salt and light in the world. He compares the idea of gathering all the street lights and putting them in one place to show that Christians should be scattered throughout the world, shining their light in different places. The preacher encourages believers to live with holiness and purity that the world does not understand. He references Philippians 4:4, where the apostle Paul encourages believers to rejoice in the Lord always, even in difficult circumstances. The preacher challenges listeners to take their faith seriously and seek revival, rather than complaining or being discouraged.
An Alarm to the Unconverted 1 of 5
By Joseph Alleine2.0K1:21:51Audio BooksPSA 2:12PSA 119:93PRO 1:23PRO 6:21TIT 2:12HEB 12:14JAS 4:8In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the transformation that occurs in a person's heart when they become a true follower of Christ. The sermon highlights the change in desires and priorities that takes place, as the individual's love for worldly things is replaced with a love for God's ways. The preacher references the example of David, who once sought worldly goods but now praises God's laws and seeks His presence. The sermon also addresses the importance of conversion, explaining what it means and why it is necessary for salvation. The preacher warns against complacency and urges listeners to seek the Lord and embrace His mercy.
Careless Ease
By Steve Gallagher1.3K06:31PRO 25:28MAT 16:24ROM 8:141CO 6:121CO 10:13GAL 5:16GAL 5:22EPH 5:18TIT 2:121PE 5:8
This sermon emphasizes the need for Christians to deny themselves and resist the temptations of indulgence and self-gratification that the enemy uses to distract and weaken believers. It warns against the dangers of overindulgence, leading to moral cowardice and a lack of spiritual preparedness for the challenges ahead. The call is to be controlled by the Holy Spirit, to seek God's will before acting on desires, and to learn the discipline of saying no to self in order to be led by the Spirit and stand firm in faith.
A Description of God's Preachers Ii
By Rolfe Barnard1.1K43:35PreachingMAT 7:13ACT 2:38ACT 17:30ROM 10:92CO 2:14EPH 2:8TIT 2:12In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of being born again and saved by the grace of God. He urges listeners to enter through the straight gate and walk on the narrow road that leads to heaven. The preacher highlights nine characteristics of a God-called preacher, including understanding the guilt and nature of sin, recognizing the curse and penalty of the law, and pointing people to Jesus as the only way of salvation. He also emphasizes the preacher's role in proclaiming the death and life found in Christ and the need for believers to strive for perfect obedience. The sermon is based on passages from Matthew and 2 Corinthians.
(Revelations of the Gospel) 3. a Revelation of My Responsibility and God's Grace
By Jason Robinson9551:10:32The True GospelGrace and ResponsibilityDEU 30:19JER 6:16LUK 13:34ROM 5:2ROM 11:61CO 15:102CO 6:1TIT 2:12HEB 4:16REV 22:17Jason Robinson emphasizes the importance of understanding the complete Gospel amidst the confusion of various interpretations in a post-Christian society. He outlines sixteen essential revelations that form the foundation of the true Gospel, including the responsibility of man to respond to God's grace and the necessity of repentance and faith. Robinson stresses that while God's grace is freely given, individuals must actively choose to accept it and live in accordance with it, highlighting the balance between divine grace and human responsibility. He warns against the dangers of a diluted Gospel that neglects these critical elements, urging believers to seek a genuine relationship with Christ that transforms their lives.
Studies in Titus - Part 2
By Paris Reidhead15647:23Christian LifePRO 29:1MAT 6:33JHN 3:16ROM 13:11EPH 6:17TIT 2:12HEB 9:27In this sermon, a young preacher delivers a sermon on the topic of death and judgment. Despite not having much material, he repeatedly emphasizes his main text, which states that it is appointed for man to die and then face judgment. Some people at the door were not impressed with his sermon, but one man couldn't shake the impact of the text and sought out the preacher for guidance. The preacher explains the five steps to salvation: awakening, conviction, repentance, saving faith, and the resulting regeneration and justification. The sermon concludes with a prayer for the truth to take hold and for the opportunity to faithfully witness to others about Jesus Christ.
Beware of Leaven
By Phil Beach Jr.301:09:09The Danger of SinFalse TeachingSpiritual VigilanceEZK 9:4MAT 16:6JHN 1:29ROM 12:21CO 5:62CO 7:10TIT 2:12HEB 1:31PE 4:17REV 1:9Phil Beach Jr. warns against the spiritual dangers of leaven, emphasizing the need for vigilance in our hearts and homes. He highlights the importance of recognizing the leaven that corrupts our lives and the church, urging believers to seek a fresh vision of the unleavened Christ. The sermon calls for accountability and transparency in our relationships, especially within families, to combat the subtle infiltration of sin. Beach stresses that true revival comes from a deep encounter with the moral majesty of Jesus, which leads to genuine repentance and transformation. Ultimately, he encourages the congregation to run to Christ for healing and strength in these perilous times.
Stop Trying to Live the Christian Life by Your Own Strength
By Major Ian Thomas0Living By FaithDivine EmpowermentJHN 10:10ROM 8:112CO 12:9GAL 2:20EPH 3:20PHP 4:13COL 1:29COL 2:6TIT 2:121JN 4:4Major Ian Thomas emphasizes that Christians often struggle to live a holy life by relying on their own strength, which leads to frustration and exhaustion. He reminds us that Christ's finished work on the Cross frees us from the penalty, power, and presence of sin, and that we are called to live by faith, allowing Christ to live through us by the Holy Spirit. Instead of striving in our own efforts, we should trust in the divine energy available to us, likening it to having a powerful engine in a car but choosing to push it instead. Thomas encourages believers to embrace the resurrection life of Christ within them and to stop trying to live the Christian life on their own. By doing so, they can overcome sin and live righteously.
1 Peter 1:14
By John Gill0ObedienceTransformation in ChristROM 12:22CO 5:17GAL 5:24EPH 5:8COL 3:21TH 4:7TIT 2:12JAS 1:221PE 1:141JN 2:15John Gill emphasizes the call for believers to live as obedient children of God, highlighting the importance of imitating Christ in holiness and righteousness. He warns against conforming to former lusts and worldly desires that once characterized their lives in ignorance. Instead, believers are encouraged to embrace their new identity in Christ and reject the sinful behaviors of their past. The sermon underscores the transformative power of faith and the necessity of living in accordance with the Gospel. Gill reminds the congregation that, having received knowledge and grace, they are called to a higher standard of living.
Waiting for the Coming of His Son
By Andrew Murray0Waiting On GodAnticipation of Christ's ReturnTIT 2:12Andrew Murray emphasizes the inseparable connection between waiting on God and waiting for the return of His Son, Jesus Christ. He teaches that true preparation for Christ's coming involves seeking God's presence and power in our lives, which fills our waiting with hope and joy. The anticipation of Christ's return not only unites the church but also prepares believers for a glorious meeting with Him and each other in divine love. Murray highlights that genuine love for Christ must also extend to fellow believers, as this love fosters unity and readiness for His coming. Ultimately, those who love deeply are the most prepared for the return of their Savior.
The Form of a Servant
By J.G. Bellet0PRO 17:3MAT 16:24ACT 7:22TIT 2:12HEB 12:6Charles Spurgeon preaches on the discipline of grace, emphasizing that grace serves as a schoolmaster to educate, train, and prepare believers for a life of holiness and maturity. Grace instills new principles, inspires gratitude, and cultivates love for God while revealing what is evil and guiding believers in discerning between good and evil. The discipline of grace includes instruction, correction, and chastisement, ultimately leading believers to deny ungodliness, live righteously, and eagerly anticipate the second coming of Christ.
What Paul Said About Holiness 4
By Aaron Hills0PHP 1:9COL 1:221TH 4:32TI 2:21TIT 2:12HEB 12:14Aaron Hills preaches on the Apostle Paul's emphasis on sanctification in his letters to various churches, highlighting the importance of believers pursuing a deeper experience of holiness and righteousness. Paul's prayers, commands, and use of specific words like 'sanctify,' 'righteousness,' 'perfect,' and 'holiness' underscore his strong encouragement for Christians to seek sanctification as a second blessing after justification. The Epistles to the Philippians, Colossians, Thessalonians, Timothy, Titus, and Hebrews all contain passages where Paul urges believers to pursue sanctification and live blamelessly before God.
Epistle 111
By George Fox0Abiding in ChristPlainness of SpeechEXO 22:18DEU 18:10PSA 1:4ECC 5:2ISA 61:3MIC 4:4LUK 3:23JHN 1:9ROM 13:31CO 1:12CO 2:162CO 3:122CO 5:11COL 4:62TH 1:82TH 2:71TI 6:16TIT 2:122PE 1:201JN 1:7JUD 1:4George Fox warns believers to speak plainly and truthfully, allowing their words to reflect the light of Christ within them. He emphasizes that words should be life-giving and rooted in the grace of God, contrasting this with the consequences of ungodliness and deceit. Fox encourages the faithful to dwell in the light, which leads to purity in speech and unity among believers, ultimately producing righteousness. He reminds them that true ministry and prophecy come not from human will but from God, urging them to abide in Christ as branches of the true vine. The sermon calls for a life of integrity and sincerity, free from hypocrisy and flattery.
Soberly, Righteously, and Godly
By Thomas Brooks0Christian DutyGodlinessECC 12:13ROM 12:1TIT 2:12Thomas Brooks emphasizes the essence of a Christian's duty, which is to live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present world. He explains that living soberly pertains to our relationship with ourselves, righteously to our interactions with others, and godly in our devotion to God. This holistic approach to godliness encapsulates the true nature of a faithful life. Brooks encourages believers to embody these principles as a reflection of their faith and commitment to Christ.
2 Peter 3:11
By John Gill0Holy LivingPreparedness for Christ's ReturnMAT 24:42ROM 12:1EPH 5:15COL 3:21TH 5:62TI 4:7TIT 2:12HEB 12:141PE 1:152PE 3:11John Gill emphasizes the certainty of the dissolution of all things as described in 2 Peter 3:11, urging believers to reflect on their conduct in light of this truth. He contrasts the behavior of scoffers and profane sinners with that of faithful Christians, who should be vigilant and engaged in holy living. Gill calls for a life marked by grace, religious duties, and a focus on godliness, encouraging believers to be prepared for the Lord's return by living soberly and righteously. The sermon serves as a reminder to guard against worldly distractions and to maintain a posture of readiness and devotion.
The God of Hope
By Tom Macartney0PSA 119:114JHN 17:13ROM 8:17ROM 15:4ROM 15:13COL 1:271TH 5:8TIT 2:12HEB 6:191PE 1:3Tom Macartney preaches about the importance of hope in the Christian life, emphasizing that true hope is confidently waiting for something certain in the future. He highlights that hope is essential for survival and recovery from depression, pointing out that Jesus Christ is the only hope for humanity. Macartney discusses the challenges to hope, including the way of the cross that leads to glory, and the need for Christians to have complete assurance in God's control and eternal life through new birth. He concludes by encouraging believers to trust in the God of hope, who fills them with joy, peace, and overflowing hope through the power of the Holy Spirit.
The Hope of the Lord's Return.
By Andrew Bonar0Hope in Christ's ReturnHoliness and Righteous LivingTIT 2:12Andrew Bonar emphasizes the significance of the doctrine of the Second Advent as a powerful motivator for holiness among believers. He shares personal testimonies illustrating how the anticipation of Christ's return can transform lives, instilling joy and assurance in faith. Bonar argues that this hope not only encourages believers to live righteously but also fosters a deep personal relationship with Jesus, leading to a life marked by holiness and service. He highlights that the longing for Christ's return should inspire believers to remain diligent in their faith and to comfort one another with the promise of His coming. Ultimately, Bonar calls for a life lived in expectation of the Lord's return, which serves as a catalyst for spiritual growth and perseverance.
The Christian Life
By David Shelby Corlett0GEN 14:19MAL 3:10MAT 22:21JHN 14:16JHN 17:14ACT 1:8ACT 17:24ROM 8:2ROM 8:41CO 6:191CO 9:141CO 10:311CO 16:22CO 6:142CO 9:7GAL 5:22GAL 6:10EPH 1:13EPH 5:331TH 5:221TI 2:1TIT 2:12HEB 10:241PE 2:131PE 4:102PE 3:18David Shelby Corlett preaches on the standard of Christian living, emphasizing the importance of living upright, sober, and godly lives according to the moral law revealed in the Scriptures, seeking to glorify God in all aspects of life. Christians are called to glorify God in their bodies by recognizing that they are temples of the Holy Spirit, refraining from practices that do not honor God, and living in a way that reflects God's glory. The obligations for Christian growth include developing holiness, Christian virtues, and actively manifesting these in daily life, while the means for growth involve attending public worship, engaging in devotional exercises, and serving in Christian ministry.
The Flesh and Salvation
By Watchman Nee0LUK 22:15ROM 6:12ROM 13:14PHP 1:231TH 2:17TIT 2:121PE 2:11In the sermon 'Lusts', the preacher delves into the concept of epithumia, a term used in the Bible to describe strong desires or impulses, both good and evil, directed towards an object. While occasionally used in a positive sense, most often epithumia refers to perverted and unrestrained desires originating from our sinful nature. The sermon emphasizes the importance of believers resisting and fleeing from lusts, which can lead to spiritual decay and bondage, urging them to pursue righteousness, faith, and godliness instead. Various Bible verses and quotes are used to illustrate the detrimental effects of lusts and the need for believers to rely on God's grace to overcome them.
Day 190, Jude
By David Servant0GEN 5:24DEU 34:6MAT 7:15TIT 2:12JUD 1:3David Servant preaches on Jude's urgent appeal to contend for the faith against false teachings that pervert God's grace into licentiousness and deny Jesus Christ as Lord. Jude warns about the consequences of abandoning holiness by citing examples of Israelites, angels, people of Sodom and Gomorrah, Cain, Balaam, and Korah. False teachers within the church are identified by their fruits of immorality, rebellion, arrogance, and division. Jude references apocryphal books to illustrate historical events, emphasizing the importance of discerning truth from inspired scripture.
The Believer's Walk
By Samuel Alexander Danford0ROM 6:4EPH 5:15TIT 2:121JN 2:61JN 3:3Samuel Alexander Danford preaches on living a standard life as Christians, both within the Church and before the world. He emphasizes the importance of expressing this standard positively through newness of life, faith, good works, love, wisdom, circumspection, honesty, and peace. Danford also highlights the negative aspects of this standard, urging believers not to conform to worldly ways, fleshly desires, sight, foolishness, riotous living, craftiness, or selfishness.
1 Peter 4:2
By John Gill0Living For GodTransformation in ChristMAT 6:33ROM 12:2GAL 5:16EPH 4:22PHP 1:271TH 4:3TIT 2:121PE 4:22PE 3:111JN 2:15John Gill emphasizes that believers, having the assurance of a sinless life after death, should no longer live their remaining time in the flesh to satisfy human lusts but instead dedicate themselves to the will of God. He explains that the phrase 'his time in the flesh' refers to the present life, which should be spent in holiness and righteousness rather than in sinful pleasures. Gill contrasts the desires of unregenerate men with the divine will, highlighting the necessity for Christians to live soberly and righteously, even in the face of suffering for the Gospel. The sermon calls for a transformation of life that reflects a commitment to God's purposes rather than worldly temptations.
Epistle 399
By George Fox0JHN 1:3ROM 8:21CO 12:131CO 15:33GAL 5:22EPH 4:4COL 3:5TIT 2:12JAS 1:27George Fox emphasizes the importance of living a life unspotted from the world, bridling our tongues from evil words, and denying the spots of the world through the grace of God and the spirit of truth. He warns against greediness, earthly mindedness, and covetousness, which are considered idolatry and spots of the world. Fox urges Christians to avoid following the lust of the eye, the pride of life, and the lust of the flesh, which are contrary to the pure undefiled religion before God the Father.
More Than Pardon
By A.W. Tozer0Full GospelRighteous LivingLUK 9:23ROM 12:11CO 15:3TIT 2:12A.W. Tozer emphasizes that the New Testament message of salvation extends beyond mere pardon for sins; it encompasses repentance, righteousness, and a call to live a godly life. He stresses that accepting Christ as Savior also requires a commitment to deny ungodliness and worldly desires, highlighting the importance of living in accordance with God's kingdom. Tozer warns against the danger of preaching only parts of the gospel, as it dilutes its power and effectiveness. The full gospel includes a call to amendment, separation from worldly influences, and loyalty to God, even in the face of adversity.
The Farewell
By J.C. Philpot0PSA 107:7MAT 26:392CO 13:11GAL 6:14TIT 2:12J.C. Philpot preaches on the concept of 'farewell' from 2 Corinthians 13:11, reflecting on the spiritual implications of faring well or ill. He delves into the characteristics of those who fare ill, including enemies of God and backsliding believers, contrasting them with the blessings of faring well in God's grace. Philpot emphasizes the importance of spiritual appetite, resignation to God's will, and walking in the footsteps of Christ as key elements of faring well in the Christian journey. He concludes with a heartfelt farewell, expressing his desire for the congregation to remain steadfast in faith and avoid straying from the truth.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Teaching us, that, denying, etc. - Παιδευουσα· Instructing us as children are instructed. Christ is the great teacher; and men, in order to learn, must become his disciples - must put themselves under his tuition, and learn of him. Denying ungodliness - Ασεβειαν· All things contrary to God; whatever would lead us to doubt his being, deny any of his essential attributes; his providence or government of the world, and his influence on the souls of men. Every thing, also, which is opposed to his true worship; theoretical and practical atheism, deism, and irreligion in general. Worldly lusts - Such desires, affections, and appetites, as men are governed by who have their portion in this life, and live without God in the world. Gluttony, drunkenness, lasciviousness, anger, malice, and revenge; together with the immoderate love of riches, power, and fame. We should live soberly - Having every temper, appetite, and desire, under the government of reason, and reason itself under the government of the Spirit of God. Righteously - Rendering to every man his due, injuring no person in his body, mind, reputation, or property; doing unto all as we would they should do to us; and filling up the duties of the particular stations in which it has pleased God to fix us, committing no sin, omitting no duty. And godly - Ευσεβως. Just the reverse of what is implied in ungodliness. See above. In this present world - Not supposing that any thing will be purified in the world to come that is not cleansed in this. The three words above evidently include our duty to God, to our neighbor, and to ourselves. 1. We are to live soberly in respect to ourselves. 2. Righteously in respect to our neighbor. And 3. Godly, or piously, in respect to our Maker.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Teaching--Greek, "disciplining us." Grace exercises discipline, and is imparted in connection with disciplining chastisements (Co1 11:32; Heb 12:6-7). The education which the Christian receives from "the grace" of God is a discipline often trying to flesh and blood: just as children need disciplining. The discipline which it exercises teaches us to deny ungodliness and worldly lusts, and to live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world (Greek, "age," or course of things) where such self-discipline is needed, seeing that its spirit is opposed to God (Tit 1:12, Tit 1:16; Co1 1:20; Co1 3:18-19): in the coming world we may gratify every desire without need of self-discipline, because all desires there will be conformable to the will of God. that--Greek, "in order that"; the end of the "disciplining" is "in order that . . . we may live soberly," &c. This point is lost by the translation, "teaching us." denying . . . lusts-- (Luk 9:23). The Greek aorist expresses "denying once for all." We deny "worldly lusts" when we withhold our consent from them, when we refuse the delight which they suggest, and the act to which they solicit us, nay, tear them up by the roots out of our soul and mind [ST. BERNARD, Sermon 11]. worldly lusts--The Greek article expresses, "the lusts of the world," "all worldly lusts" [ALFORD], (Gal 5:16; Eph 2:3; Jo1 2:15-17; Jo1 5:19). The world (cosmos) will not come to an end when this present age (aeon) or course of things shall end. live soberly, righteously, and godly--the positive side of the Christian character; as "denying . . . lusts" was the negative. "Soberly," that is, with self-restraint, in relation to one's self: "righteously" or justly, in relation to our neighbor; "godly" or piously, in relation to God (not merely amiably and justly, but something higher, godly, with love and reverence toward God). These three comprise our "disciplining" in faith and love, from which he passes to hope (Tit 2:13).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Who gave himself for us,.... Not another, or another's, but himself; not merely his own things, but his own self; not the world, and the riches of it, not gold and silver, and such like corruptible things, as the price of redemption; not the cattle on a thousand hills for sacrifice; not men nor angels, but himself; all that belong to him, all that is near and dear, his name, fame, credit, and reputation; his time, strength, and service: all the comforts of life, and life itself; his whole manhood, soul, and body, and that as in union with his divine person; which he gave into the hands of men, and of justice, and to death itself, to be a ransom price of his people, and for a propitiation and sacrifice for their sins, to be paid and offered in their room and stead: not for all mankind, but for many; for us, for all the elect of God, for the church; and who are represented when he gave himself, or died for them, as ungodly, sinners, and enemies: this was a free and voluntary gift, and is an unspeakable one; who can say all that is contained in this word "himself?" it is an instance of the greatest love, of love that passeth knowledge; God, because he could swear by no greater, swore by himself; and Christ, because he could give no greater gift, nor any greater instance of his love, gave himself, for the following ends and purposes: that he might redeem us from all iniquity: sin brings into bondage and, slavery, redemption is a deliverance from it; sin binds guilt upon the sinner, and lays him under obligation to punishment, and renders him liable to the curse and condemnation of the law; Christ was made sin, and a curse for his people, that he might redeem them from both, and deliver them from the punishment due to sin; which he has done by bearing it in his own, body on the tree, whereby he has redeemed them from all iniquity, that so it shall not be their ruin, or they come into condemnation on account of it; even from original sin, and from all actual transgressions; from all which his blood cleanses, and his righteousness justifies, and which God, for his sake, freely and fully forgives. Christ was called to this work by his Father, to which he agreed; and the plan of redemption being drawn in the everlasting council, and the whole adjusted and fixed in the covenant of peace; promises and prophecies were given out of it, and in the fulness of time Christ was sent, and came to effect it; and he has obtained eternal redemption for us, through the price of his own blood, which could have never been wrought out by any creature; and wherein all the divine perfections are glorified and is a plenteous and complete one; it includes in it, or connects with it, the blessings of justification, peace, pardon, adoption, and eternal life. It follows as another end of Christ's giving himself, or what is a branch of redemption, or consequent upon it, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works; all mankind are filthy and unclean by nature, in all the powers and faculties of their souls; nor can they cleanse themselves from their impurity of flesh and spirit, by anything that they can do: Christ has a peculiar people among these, a church whom he loves, and for whom he has given himself, that he might sanctify and cleanse them from their sins; which he has done by shedding his blood for them, and washing them in it, which cleanses from all sin, and he has purified them unto himself, for his own use and service, for his pleasure and delight, and to his glory; that they might be a proper habitation for him now; and that they might be made ready for him, to have the marriage between, him and them consummated; and that they might be presented to himself a glorious church, without spot or wrinkle, and be with him, both in the new Jerusalem state, into which nothing that defiles, or is defiled, enters, and in heaven, to all eternity. Now these people, for whom Christ has given himself, and whom he has redeemed and purifies, are a "peculiar people"; for whom Christ has a peculiar love, in whom he takes a peculiar delight, and to whom he grants peculiar nearness to himself, and bestows peculiar blessings on them, and makes peculiar provisions for them, both for time and eternity; these are Christ's own, his possession, his substance, what he has a special right to by his Father's gift, his own purchase, and the conquest of his grace; and they are a distinct and separate people from all others, in election, redemption, effectual calling, and in Christ's intercession, and will be in the resurrection morn, at the day of judgment, and to all eternity; and they are, as the word also signifies, an excellent and valuable people; they are Christ's portion and inheritance; they are his peculiar treasure, his jewels, whom, as such, he values and takes care of. The Syriac version renders it, "a new people". And they who are redeemed and purified by Christ, through the power of his grace upon them, become a people "zealous of good works"; not in order to their justification and salvation, but in obedience to the will of God, and to testify their subjection and gratitude to him, and for his honour and glory, and for the credit of religion, and the good of men, These not only perform them, but perform them from principles of truth and love, and with a zeal for the glory of God, and the honour of his Gospel; and with an holy emulation of one another, striving to go before, and excel each other in the performance of them.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
2:12 we are instructed: The emphasis of this instruction falls on the positive virtues: wisdom, righteousness, and devotion to God. In Greco-Roman writings, these three virtues represent virtuous conduct in general. These virtues counter the Cretan vices listed in 1:12 and are transformed into thoroughly Christian qualities (see 2:13). • Paul exhorts the Cretans to bring these virtues to life, in order to make plain to their compatriots that a virtuous life derives only from God’s grace in Jesus Christ.