Sabbath, July 26 – Titus 3, 1 Peter 1

1. How should believers behave toward the authorities and in their interactions with others? (Titus 3:1-2)

2. In what way has the believer been saved and regenerated? (Titus 3:4-6)

3. What is the living hope we hold as believers, and what is it founded on? (1 Peter 1:3-4)

In Titus 3:5 Paul writes:

“not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us, through the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit.”

This verse highlights that justification before God is solely by grace, without human merit. However, the broader context (Titus 3:8) emphasizes that this same grace should be shown through good works as the result of a life transformed by the Spirit.

Both chapters in today’s reading focus on the doctrine of salvation by grace and sanctification. Titus 3 discusses transformation through the Holy Spirit. First Peter 1 emphasizes the living hope based on Christ’s resurrection and urges believers to pursue holiness. 1 Peter 1:16 says: “Be holy, for I am holy.”

This double dimension of grace, that saves and sanctifies, is central throughout Scripture.

Titus 3:3 says: “For we ourselves were also once foolish, disobedient, deceived… living in malice and envy…”

This urges us to show compassion toward those who still don’t know the truth.
1 Peter 1:6-7 tells us:

“…though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, that the genuineness of your faith… may be found to praise, honor, and glory…”

This motivates us to keep an active hope even during difficult times.

And 1 Peter 1:18-19 declares:

“…you were not redeemed with corruptible things… but with the precious blood of Christ…”

This steadfast inheritance sustains us at all times.

May the God of all grace renew in you today the living hope through Jesus Christ, and may the Holy Spirit empower you to live in holiness, peace, and love, reflecting the goodness of our Savior in every word and action. Amen.