Titus 3:7

Titus 3:7 is a profound declaration of the basis and outcome of Christian salvation, emphasizing God's unmerited favor as the foundation for our spiritual inheritance. This verse beautifully encapsulates the Pauline doctrine of salvation by grace, contrasting it with human works and highlighting the glorious future awaiting believers.

Context

This verse comes from Paul's letter to Titus, a fellow worker whom Paul had left in Crete to organize the churches there. In Titus chapter 3, Paul is instructing Titus on the conduct expected of believers within society and the church. He begins by urging submission to governing authorities and good behavior (Titus 3:1-2). The preceding verses (Titus 3:3-6) vividly describe humanity's former state of sin and folly, followed by God's transformative intervention: "But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared, not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; Which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour." Titus 3:7 then builds directly upon this foundation, explaining the purpose and result of this divine rescue operation.

Key Themes

• Justification by Grace

  The phrase "That being justified by his grace" is central. Justification refers to God's act of declaring sinners righteous in His sight, not because of their own merit, but because of Christ's perfect obedience and atoning sacrifice. This declaration is entirely "by his grace," meaning it is an undeserved gift of God's favor and love. It stands in stark contrast to any notion of earning salvation through good deeds, a truth Paul consistently taught throughout his epistles, such as in Ephesians 2:8-9 where he states, "For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast."

• Heirship and Inheritance

  The result of being justified by grace is that "we should be made heirs." To be an heir means to be designated to receive an inheritance. Spiritually, believers become co-heirs with Christ, inheriting all the blessings and promises of God. This inheritance includes the present reality of God's presence and provision, and the future glory of His kingdom. This concept of spiritual inheritance is a recurring theme in the New Testament, as seen in Romans 8:17: "And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ."

• The Hope of Eternal Life

  The inheritance we receive is "according to the hope of eternal life." This "hope" is not a mere wishful thinking, but a confident and certain expectation rooted in God's promises and the resurrection of Christ. Eternal life is not just endless existence, but a quality of life characterized by knowing God (John 17:3) and experiencing His presence in fullness. This future reality is the ultimate culmination of God's saving work and provides profound assurance and motivation for believers.

Linguistic Insights

• "Justified" (dikaiōthentes): This Greek word signifies being declared righteous, acquitted, or vindicated. It's a legal term, emphasizing a change in status before God from guilty to righteous.
• "Grace" (chariti): Derived from charis, it denotes unmerited favor, kindness, or goodwill. It highlights the divine initiative and generosity in salvation.
• "Heirs" (klēronomoi): This term literally refers to those who inherit property or a position. In a theological sense, it underscores the believer's privileged position as a recipient of God's spiritual blessings and future glory.
• "Hope" (elpida): In biblical Greek, elpis conveys a strong, confident expectation or assurance, not merely a desire or possibility. It implies a certainty about future realities based on God's faithfulness.

Practical Application

Titus 3:7 offers immense comfort and motivation for believers today. It reminds us that our salvation is solely based on God's grace, removing any burden of trying to earn His favor. This truth should lead to:

• Assurance: Knowing we are justified by grace provides deep peace and security in our relationship with God.
• Humility: Since salvation is a gift, there is no room for boasting in our own efforts.
• Purpose: As heirs of eternal life, we are called to live lives that reflect our new identity and the glorious hope we possess, serving God and others out of gratitude, not obligation.
• Evangelism: This verse compels us to share the good news of God's saving grace and the hope of eternal life with others, as it is the only way to true peace and fulfillment.