We Represent Christ – Titus 3:1-2

Living Out Our Faith: Christian Responsibilities in Government and Community

Have you ever felt like Christopher Columbus, setting sail without knowing where you’re going? As Christians navigating the waters of civic engagement and community life, we might sometimes feel lost. But God’s Word provides clear direction on how we should conduct ourselves both as citizens and neighbors.

In Titus 3:1-2, the Apostle Paul lays out some practical instructions for believers. Let’s explore these teachings and see how we can apply them in our daily lives.

Our Responsibility to Government

As followers of Christ, we have specific obligations toward our government which reflect our Christian responsibilities:

1. Be submissive to rulers and authorities

Paul tells us to “be submissive to rulers and authorities” (Titus 3:1). This doesn’t mean blind obedience, but rather a willingness to align ourselves with the government God has placed over us. As I mentioned in the sermon, “we are to be law-abiding citizens,”.

2. Be obedient

We are called to “be obedient” (Titus 3:1). This means following the laws and regulations, even when they might seem inconvenient. As I said, “I hate red tape… but God has called us to… reflect Him.”

3. Be ready for every good work

Paul instructs us to “be ready for every good work” (Titus 3:1). This means being actively engaged in our communities and government. I encourage you to “get involved in our community… pray for our mayor, our police chief, our city administrator,” as part of embracing your Christian responsibilities.

Our Responsibility to Our Community

As we interact with others in our daily lives, Paul gives us four more commands:

1. Speak evil of no one

We are told to “speak evil of no one” (Titus 3:2). This means refraining from gossip, slander, and harmful speech. As I mentioned, “we are not to tear down but we are to build up as Christians.”

2. Avoid quarreling

Paul instructs us to “avoid quarreling” (Titus 3:2). We shouldn’t be contentious or always looking for a fight. Remember, “only by pride comes contention.”

3. Be gentle

We are called to “be gentle” (Titus 3:2). This means responding with patience and kindness, even when others wrong us. As I said, “there are times that you have the authority and you may have the might and you have the right to strike out against someone and the Lord says you respond in such a way that you’re gentle.”

4. Show perfect courtesy toward all people

Finally, we are to “show perfect courtesy toward all people” (Titus 3:2). This involves treating everyone with respect and kindness, regardless of who they are. This, too, is one of our essential Christian responsibilities.

The Power to Live It Out

Now, you might be thinking, “This all sounds great, but how can I possibly live up to these standards?” The good news is, we don’t have to do it in our own strength. As I mentioned in the sermon, “The Christian life is not about what we can do, it’s beyond us.”

The key is found in Titus 2:11-12: “For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people, training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age.”

God’s grace not only saves us but also empowers us to live out these commands. As I said, “If you’ll rely on the Lord, if you’ll acknowledge that, if you’ll humble yourself, the Bible says that he will give you his grace, his strength, his power for you to do what he has called you to do.”

Putting It Into Practice

This week, I challenge you to:

1. Pray for your local government officials by name.
2. Look for opportunities to engage positively in your community.
3. Practice speaking kindly about others, even when you disagree with them.
4. Respond with gentleness when faced with conflict.
5. Show courtesy to everyone you encounter, regardless of their status or how they treat you.

Remember, we have “the wealth and the grace of God from Heaven at our disposal.” Let’s not leave it hanging on the wall like Ricky Henderson’s million-dollar check. Instead, let’s cash in on God’s grace and live out our faith in ways that impact our government and community for His glory, embracing our Christian responsibilities.