Most every student of the Bible knows the exhortation to be a “doer of the word” is found in James 1, in the context of verses 19 – 27. In the days ahead we will visit James 1 for a more in-depth look at what he says. In this writing I want to start with Paul’s letter to Titus. He identifies Titus as his “…true child in a common faith…” (1:4). He further states, “…I left you in Crete, that you might set in order what remains, and appoint elders in every city as I directed you…” (1:5). Then he proceeds to list the qualifications of those who would be appointed as elders. He also gives the duties of both the older and younger Christians. That is chapter 2. In chapter 3 we read his exhortation about godly living. It is a short letter, just three chapters, but it is full of exhortations todays believer needs to hear and follow. You might ask, “How does what Paul wrote to Titus relate to what James wrote about “being a doer of the word?” At least six times Paul will use the phrase “good deeds” in his letter to Titus. One of those times it is a negative. The other five are all positives. Let’s take a look at them. In doing so, I think we will see the connection quite clearly between what James wrote with what Paul writes to Titus.
The first one is the negative. Paul reminds Titus that among those he is seeking to teach and encourage “…are many rebellious men, empty talkers and deceivers…” (1:10). Of those he says, “They profess to know God, but by their deeds they deny Him, being detestable and disobedient, and worthless for any good deed” (1:16).
What a wonderful blessing to be able to hear God’s word taught and proclaimed. The gospel is “…the power of God for salvation…” (Romans 1:16). We need to hear it, teach it, preach it, and do it. It must be said, “it is one thing to hear the word, it is another thing to practice it.” Hear James again, “…one who knows the right thing to do, and does not do it, to him it is sin” (James 4:17). There are many “hearers” around, but not as many “doers.” If we do not obey, we are guilty of disobeying. And thus, as Paul said to Titus, “worthless for any good deed.”
In our world there are those who live in countries where the Bible is “…a book that is illegal to own, print, import or distribute…” (source: Voice of the Martyrs, April 2023, Vol. 57 No 4). Not so in these United States of America! What a blessing! Let’s hear it and let’s do what it says!
Next week we will begin to take a look at the five positive “good deeds” statements found in Titus. If questions or comments, please respond: PO Box 1399.
— Les Ferguson Sr., South Huntington Church of Christ
