Sunday School Lesson
August 25
Lesson 13 (KJV)
The Washing of Regeneration
Devotional Reading: Ephesians 2:1–10
Background Scripture: Titus 3:3–11
Titus 3:3–11
3 For we ourselves also were sometimes foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving divers lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another.
4 But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared,
5 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;
6 Which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour;
7 That being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life.
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.
9 But avoid foolish questions, and genealogies, and contentions, and strivings about the law; for they are unprofitable and vain.
10 A man that is an heretick after the first and second admonition reject;
11 Knowing that he that is such is subverted, and sinneth, being condemned of himself.
Key Text
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;—Titus 3:4–5
Hope in the Lord
Unit III: Eternal Hope
Lessons 10–13
Lesson Aims
After participating in this lesson, each learner will be able to:
1. List the means by which God saves.
2. Explain how to distinguish between profitable and unprofitable conversations from Paul’s perspective.
3. Make a commitment to participate in conversations that only are profitable.
How to Say It
Corinth Kor-inth.
Ephesians Ee-fee-zhunz.
Malta Mawl-tuh.
Pentecost Pent-ih-kost.
Introduction
A. Ever-Present Distractions
It seems that at almost every turn, we face new distractions. The latest television show, a spat on social media, or the day’s most scandalous entertainment news story all become distractions. These fleeting things take our attention away from those things that are truly important, like our most valued relationships and the work that God has called us to do. A 1985 book by critic Neil Postman asks whether we are Amusing Ourselves to Death. Could we also be distracting ourselves to negative ends?
The same question could also apply to how we approach our faith in God. Rather than focus on the core of our faith, we might become too distracted by nonessential issues. As a result, social media fights among Christians ensue, churches divide, and believers become discouraged.
How can believers avoid distractions and focus on the thing that matters: the gospel that brings salvation? This question is not new; it has faced believers since the beginning of the church.
B. Lesson Context
The context surrounding the island of Crete and Paul’s travels there has been covered in the Lesson Context of the previous lesson—lesson 12.
Paul had written this letter to address certain disturbances that faced the believers on that island. There had been a lack of godliness that had led to meaningless controversies and distractions (Titus 1:10–15). Paul instructed Titus to appoint godly leadership (1:5) to encourage others with gospel truth and refute the teachings of the opposition (1:9–16).
Old or young, male or female, husband or wife, free or enslaved, Paul instructed his readers to demonstrate self-control and pursue lives of godliness (see Titus 2:1–15). Paul also directed Titus to encourage the people to obey authority, be eager for good works, and live with gentleness and meekness (3:1–2). The worst thing that could occur would be for controversies to arise and distract the believers in Crete from focusing on the gospel.
I. Gospel Reminder
(Titus 3:3–8)
A. Our Situation (v. 3)
3a. For we ourselves also were sometimes foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving divers lusts and pleasures.
In order to highlight the power of the gospel, Paul first had to acknowledge the human situation. Every person has sinned (Romans 3:23), and no one is entirely righteous (3:10). By stating we ourselves, Paul included himself as among those who had sinned (compare 7:22–25).
Paul described the condition of human sin by using a “vice list.” Such lists appear often in the writings of Paul (examples: Romans 1:29–31; 1 Corinthians 6:9–10; Galatians 5:19–21, 26; 2 Timothy 3:2–5). By one count, the New Testament contains 23 of these lists. Paul does not use these lists to imply that every person has committed every sin listed. Instead, the lists paint word pictures, reminding us of the many ways that sin has affected the world and our hearts.
This particular vice list begins by mentioning the foolish person who stubbornly refuses to accept God’s truth (compare Galatians 3:1–3). Such a person becomes disobedient by rebelling against the standards of God (example: Titus 1:16) and others (example: Romans 1:30).
Sin can lead people to deceive themselves regarding right and wrong (see Isaiah 5:20). Therefore, Paul frequently warns against being deceived (examples: 1 Corinthians 15:33; Galatians 6:7). Such self-deception causes people to become captive to the divers lusts and pleasures of a sinful world (compare Titus 2:12, lesson 12).
3b. Living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another.
Sin affects not only a person’s mindset and actions but also his or her relationships with others. Malice and envy are feelings of wickedness directed at another person. These two feelings tend to go hand-in-hand; the underlying Greek words occur together also in Romans 1:29 and 1 Peter 2:1. These feelings result from sinful desires and can lead to anger or other sins. Rather than be filled with love for others (see 1 Corinthians 13:4), the envious person becomes filled with hate that leads to further sin (James 3:14–16).
This verse is the only occurrence in the New Testament of the underlying Greek word translated as hateful. The same word is used twice in a letter from the early church leader Clement of Rome (lived AD 35–99). In one letter, Clement describes how unrighteousness is considered “hateful to God” (see the nonbiblical 1 Clement 35:5–6) and causes people to be considered “abominable” (45:7). God hates wickedness (Proverbs 6:16–19). Instead, God desires that people repent from sin and follow His Son.
Earlier in this letter, Paul remarked on the wickedness of the Cretans (Titus 1:12). In the verse before us, the apostle made it clear to Titus that without God’s grace, all people—including Titus and Paul—were no better than the Cretans. They were all sinners.
What Do You Think?
What steps do you take to ensure that you do not harbor feelings of envy and malice toward others?
Digging Deeper
In what ways do the teachings of the “Love Chapter” (1 Corinthians 13) serve as an antidote to envy and malice?
B. God’s Response (vv. 4–7)
4. But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared.
The phrase but after that points to a change of status for humanity. The previous verse’s description of human sin does not have to be the final status for humanity. Instead, God has provided a way to free us from sin and evil. This divine initiative for salvation arises from God’s character, particularly His kindness and love. This truth is the core of our faith.
God has revealed His kindness through His gracious benevolence to help sinful humanity. Throughout history, God’s kindness has been on display (examples: Ruth 2:20; Jeremiah 9:24). The ultimate example of His kindness has come through God’s sending of His Son, Christ Jesus, to pay sin’s price through the sacrifice of himself on the cross (Romans 3:21–26; Ephesians 2:7). This display of kindness would lead humanity to repentance (Romans 2:4).
The underlying Greek word translated love in this verse is unique. It is not one of the more frequently used Greek words for love found in the New Testament. A form of this particular Greek word is used in Acts 27:3 regarding the behavior of Julius. The term is also used in 28:2 regarding the “kindness” of the people of Malta toward Paul. We can experience salvation and a new life because of God’s love and kindness for us.
This verse is the second and final occurrence in this letter of the underlying Greek translated appeared. The word is first used regarding the appearance of “the grace of God that bringeth salvation” (Titus 2:11; see lesson 12). Humanity no longer had to live in the darkness of sin. Instead, the grace, kindness, and love of God our Saviour have been displayed through Jesus Christ for our salvation (see 2 Timothy 1:9–10).
What Do You Think?
How would you explain God’s love and kindness to someone who does not think of God as such?
Digging Deeper
What Scripture texts come to mind that would help inform your explanation?
The Love of a Parent
The teenager hoped her mom would not notice the long scratch on the family car. The damage had occurred as the girl had backed the car out of the garage that morning. She was sure her mom would be angry when she eventually saw the damage. The teenager feared losing her mother’s respect—and maybe even love.
Eventually, the daughter came clean. She didn’t maintain eye contact with her mother as she recounted the story of that morning. As the girl spoke, she felt her mother’s hand gently raise her chin, forcing the daughter to look her mother in the eye.
Noticing the daughter’s anxiety, the mother hugged her and said, “I’m just glad you’re OK. I love you because of who I am, not because of what you do. I’m your mom; moms love their kids.”
God does not base His love for us on anything we do—or do not do. Instead, His love comes from His nature as a loving heavenly Father who desires a relationship with us. Because of His love, God has shown His kindness to us for our salvation! How will you praise God for His kindness and love? —L. M. W.
5a. Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us.
The good things we do—works of righteousness—do not earn us salvation. Our righteous acts are like “filthy rags” (Isaiah 64:6) that do not benefit us for salvation (57:12).
Despite human sin, God delights in showing mercy (Micah 7:18; example: Daniel 9:9). This is because God is “rich in mercy” for our salvation (Ephesians 2:4–5). Our merciful God has provided a way for salvation that does not require our righteousness (Romans 9:15–16). Instead, He has initiated our salvation through His gift of grace (11:6; Ephesians 2:8–9; 2 Timothy 1:9). By His mercy and grace, we are justified by faith, and we are saved.
5b. By the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost.
Students of the text have long discussed what Paul meant by the phrase the washing of regeneration. One possibility is that Paul was referring to the practice of baptism. Through baptism, we are “buried with [Christ]” (Colossians 2:12), and those who have been baptized “put on Christ” (Galatians 3:27). The other possibility is that Paul is generally referring to the spiritual cleansing from sin that results from our salvation. When we accept God’s gift of grace, His Spirit fills us and transforms us (2 Corinthians 3:18). This transformation comes as the Spirit empowers us to remove the sinful self and receive new life (Ephesians 4:22–24; Colossians 3:10–11).
This new life is one where we are dead to the ways of sin (Romans 6:11). Our old selves were held captive to foolishness and disobedience. But because of God’s gift of grace, salvation is available to us. When we accept that gift, the Holy Ghost transforms us into new people devoted to following God and obeying His commands.
Washing and Renewal
While spending a summer in a foreign country, a storm caused flooding in the city where I had been living. The flood destroyed the city’s water purification system. Tap water became contaminated, unsafe for consumption. The city government had to distribute tanks of clean water to the residents for cooking, drinking, and washing.
After an entire summer with limited access to potable water, I left for home feeling dirty and exhausted. In a hotel room on the journey back home, I took my first real bath in months. To say that I felt washed and renewed would be an understatement—I never felt as clean as I did after that bath!
The apostle Paul wrote of “the washing of regeneration” (Titus 3:5b). As God’s children, we have been washed and made clean. Does your behavior reflect your status in this regard? Why or why not? —L. M. W.
6. Which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour.
This verse reminds readers of the events of Pentecost when God poured out His Spirit (Acts 2:1–41). The underlying Greek word translated shed is also used in Acts 2 to describe how God promised to “pour out” His Spirit (2:17–18; compare Joel 2:28). By using the phrase on us, Paul includes both himself and Titus as among those who had experienced the presence of God’s Spirit.
The pouring out of God’s Spirit on His people is not like the trickle of water from a drying creek. Instead, God has abundantly poured His Spirit out as a rich resource of His grace and love (Romans 5:5). The Spirit’s presence brings renewal and sanctification to the lives of believers. All people who have accepted God’s grace are invited to receive and “drink” of God’s Spirit (1 Corinthians 12:13).
Paul’s explanation of our salvation in verses 5–6 reveals the work of the Triune God. All three persons of the Trinity are either mentioned or implied in these verses. The personal pronoun he refers to God the Father who has sent the Holy Spirit (John 14:16–17). The Holy Spirit proceeds from both God the Father and His only Son, Jesus Christ our Saviour (14:26; 15:26; 16:7). In this verse, Paul has affirmed the role of all three persons of the Triune God—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—for our justification and sanctification.
7. That being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life.
Only through God’s grace and our faith in Christ’s sacrifice are we justified (Romans 3:24; 5:9; 10:9–10; 11:6; Galatians 3:11; etc.). Although we are guilty of sin, we are counted righteous when we accept God’s gift of grace (2:16). Our justification results in a new status and our hope for the future. Because of this justification, we become the children of God. As such, we are made heirs of God and become benefactors of God’s promises regarding glory (Romans 8:17; Galatians 4:7).
As heirs, we have a unique hope as we await our future (Romans 8:23–25). To have hope does not mean wishful thinking. For Paul, hope is a certainty; it is a confidence that the promises made by God to His heirs will come true (15:4; see also commentary on Titus 1:2 and 2:13 in lesson 12). In this case, the hoped-for promise is that God’s children will someday experience glorious eternal life with Him (2 Timothy 2:10; 1 Peter 1:3–4; 2 Peter 1:10–11; etc.).
What Do You Think?
How has your identity and purpose as a believer changed as you think of yourself as an “heir” in God’s family?
Digging Deeper
How does your identity as an heir of eternal riches change your relationship with your material possessions?
C. Profitable Actions (v. 8)
8a. This is a faithful saying, and these things I will that thou affirm constantly.
The phrase this is a faithful saying or its equivalent is found in five places in the Pastoral Epistles (here and in 1 Timothy 1:15; 3:1; 4:9; 2 Timothy 2:11). As a mentor to both Timothy and Titus, Paul sought to remind them of the trustworthy doctrine that they could then proclaim in their churches.
These things include what Paul had taught up to this point in the letter. This teaching included the human condition, the kindness and love of God, salvation through grace, purification by the Spirit, and hope of eternal life (Titus 3:3–7). These points of doctrine are the core of the gospel message. Titus could trust Paul’s teaching and, therefore, proclaim it to the Cretans. As Titus taught these things, the believers in Crete would hear and obey, thus becoming obedient children of God.
8b. That they which have believed in God might be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable unto men.
When the gospel is proclaimed, heard, and believed, it will create a people devoted to obeying God. Having faith and doing good go hand-in-hand (James 2:14–21, 26). Believers doing good works that result from their salvation is a prominent theme in this letter (see also Titus 2:14; 3:1, 14).
The good works of a believer come as a result of the presence of God in that person’s life (Philippians 2:12–13). Good works are the result of salvation, not the source of it. God has blessed us so that we might do good works (2 Corinthians 9:8; Ephesians 2:10). The good works that Paul has in mind are good and profitable for all people. By this, he means that good works are a way to obey God and are a benefit for others (examples: 1 Timothy 5:10; 6:18). When we are filled with the Holy Spirit and allow the Spirit to shape our habits and mindsets, we become eager to do good works. In the process, we please and obey God (Hebrews 13:16).
What Do You Think?
How do you pay attention to the leading of God’s Spirit to guide your habits and mindset?
Digging Deeper
In what ways will you encourage other believers to do the same?
III. Gospel Behavior
(Titus 3:9–11)
A. Avoid Foolishness (v. 9)
9. But avoid foolish questions, and genealogies, and contentions, and strivings about the law; for they are unprofitable and vain.
Having established what defines “profitable” behavior in light of salvation (Titus 3:8, above), Paul describes those unprofitable behaviors for believers pursuing godliness. This list of behavior is related to the “unruly and vain talkers and deceivers, … who subvert whole houses, teaching things which they ought not” (1:10–11). In this verse, Paul addressed false teachers that had infiltrated the Cretan church. Their foolish questions and contentions had divided the church. Rather than being a community known for love and good works, the Cretan church risked conflict over vain debates by following these teachers.
The mention of genealogies and strivings about the law provides clues regarding the identity of the false teachers. Their teachings had been influenced by certain Jewish ideas from the people “of the circumcision” (Titus 1:10; see 1:14). Some of the teachings concerned aspects of the Law of Moses and human ancestry. Such things had no value for human salvation in light of the work of Christ Jesus.
In Paul’s letters to Timothy, the apostle warns the young man regarding the dangers of empty talk (1 Timothy 1:6; 2 Timothy 2:16, 23) and meaningless stories and genealogies (1 Timothy 1:3–4). While we do not know specifics regarding the situations that faced Timothy and Titus, both men confronted false teachers in their communities. Part of Paul’s ministry was to guide these younger leaders to lead their particular churches in the ways of godliness. This guidance meant they would have to call out dangerous teachings and divisive behaviors.
What Do You Think?
How do you discern what things are profitable for your spiritual maturity and what things are “unprofitable and vain”?
Digging Deeper
Who is a younger person to whom you can give profitable spiritual encouragement?
B. Admonish Divisiveness (vv. 10–11)
10–11. A man that is an heretick after the first and second admonition reject; knowing that he that is such is subverted, and sinneth, being condemned of himself.
We typically use the word heretic to refer to someone who espouses false teaching. However, that meaning is not in view in this verse’s mention of a man that is an heretick. Instead, the underlying Greek word in this verse refers to someone who causes division. Rather than build up the body of Christ that is the church, this type of person creates discord and disruption. Therefore, believers should avoid such a person (see Romans 16:17; 2 Thessalonians 3:6).
In response to such a divisive person, Paul describes an early form of church discipline. Paul’s directives reveal a certain level of patience. Divisive people could receive two warnings. After the second warning, the church should outright reject the person. By allowing two warnings, Titus would give the troublesome party ample opportunity to repent and change. Paul’s warning in these verses recalls Jesus’ teaching regarding dealing with sin in the church (Matthew 18:15–17). This event was not Paul’s first experience handing out warnings and discipline. The church in Corinth had received such warnings from Paul (2 Corinthians 13:2).
By following Paul’s directives in this regard, Titus would no longer give attention to those who brought distraction and division to the church. The false teachers’ stubbornness and refusal to accept correction had condemned them. Their behaviors subverted the order Titus had been commissioned to create for the church at Crete. As a result, a strong response on the part of Titus was required.
Conclusion
A. Gospel Focus
When churches emphasize the gospel, the spiritual health of its members improves. Instead of being focused on distractions that lead to division, believers can become devoted to doing good works that result from godliness.
As if to remind believers of all eras, the apostle Paul retells the gospel message that begins with the kindness and love of God that results in our salvation and culminates with being made new through God’s Spirit. This is the gospel message, and it is profitable for all believers.
In response to Paul’s directives to Titus, we should reflect on his teachings and the practices of our churches. Ask yourself if your church focuses on the gospel and living out its teachings. Then, ask yourself the same question. Do you focus on the gospel and living out its teachings? Have distractions threatened your spiritual livelihood?
B. Prayer
Kind and loving God, we thank You for Your mercy and grace by which You have saved us. Help us be more attentive to the Spirit’s leading into renewal and rebirth so that we might do good works in Your name. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
C. Thought to Remember
The only thing truly profitable is the gospel!
Standard Publishing. KJV Standard Lesson Commentary® 2023-2024 (pp. 1179-1198). David C Cook. Kindle Edition.