You can read the verses around this Bible passage from the Internet Bible: - in English, and many other languages
"This is a trustworthy saying". Paul writes this five times in his letters. It probably related to an early hymn or confessional statement and it was endorsed by Paul as a practical instruction to Titus. The Apostle always stressed that truth could never be isolated from action (unlike the heresies which had crept into the early church). He taught that faith in Jesus was not valid if it was not expressed in disciplined, practical action.
Of course, there were many people who did some good things, but had not put their trust in God through Jesus Christ. So here Paul contrasted the national characteristics of the people of Crete (liars, evil brutes, lazy gluttons - Titus 1:12) with the family characteristics of the people of God. He wanted Titus to stress that trusting in God is not a spiritual exercise only, but true faith is seen as people put God's Word into practice. This kind of 'practical faith' needs the discipline of careful and intentional planning until it becomes a lifestyle to which the Christian is devoted. 'Doing good' should not be thought of as 'gaining credit' with God but acting as a responsible member of His family, to benefit everybody, not just those in the church. It is also an important way in which people at work and in the community are alerted to the power of Jesus Christ and His gospel.
It is the same today. Preaching without application is useless. It merely builds up information. But preaching which contains a godly persuasion to do what is taught - at work, at home and in the community - will result in Jesus Christ being seen as a most excellent person to trust. Our devotional life is still important. However many believers think it is only a private and secret thing (personal reading, prayer, meditation and personal worship). Devotion must start there but it must also be expressed in intentional, disciplined, practical obedience - and all for the sake of Jesus. True faith puts our knowledge into action and should develop into a lifestyle. And so that is how we can worship God as much at work as we do in church, although in a different way.
Prayer: My Lord and Master. Thank You for all the information I have about You, and all that You have revealed to me about myself. Forgive me for the many times I have failed to act on Your Word. Thank You for this verse which is teaching me to do what I know to be right and to show Your goodness at work and in my community. Please help me to teach this principle to others at home and in the church, and to learn how to be a good example. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
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