Titus 3:8
“This is a faithful saying, and these things I will that thou affirm constantly, that they which have believed in God might be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable unto men.”
King James Version (KJV)
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Read Full Chapter →Paul calls this a trustworthy saying and urges Titus to stress it, so that believers will be devoted to good works, which are good and beneficial.
What Does Titus 3:8 Mean?
Paul marks the gospel summary he just gave as a faithful saying, a trustworthy word worth holding firmly. He charges Titus to affirm these truths constantly, and he names the practical aim: that those who have believed in God would be careful to devote themselves to good works. Such works, Paul adds, are good and profitable for everyone.
Here the letter's two great themes meet. The gospel of grace, far from making good works unnecessary, is precisely what fuels them. Those saved by mercy are to be the most diligent in doing good. Believing rightly and living well belong together. For the reader, this is the proper response to grace. Having received God's mercy, we give ourselves eagerly to good that blesses others. Grace does not excuse us from good works; it sets us free to pursue them with joy.