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<\/a><\/p>\nAfter the Apostle Paul and his co-worker Titus had evangelized the island of Crete, the apostle left Titus behind to \u201cput what remained into order\u201d (1:5). A limited number of new disciples, gathered in small fellowships in the various towns on the island found themselves living out this new life in Christ in the midst of a very dark culture (1:12). What possible hope did they have that not only would they remain true to their new Master, but that the gospel itself would triumph among their people?<\/p>\n
Paul wrote to remind Titus and to inform the new disciples of the transforming work God intended to do, not only in each of them and in their homes and families, but in the larger populace of the island as well.<\/p>\n
That process begins with TRUTH<\/strong>. As each one hears the gospel of the grace of God in Christ (2:11-14; 3:4-7) the process begins. As each one continues intentionally immersing themselves in the truth of God\u2019s Word the process continues.<\/p>\n Knowledge alone, however, will never transform anyone. Truth must be met with active TRUST<\/strong>. That is to say, \u201csound doctrine\u201d must be met with \u201csound faith.\u201d Active faith evidenced in obedience to the truth sets in motion a powerful transforming process.<\/p>\n When truth is met with trust TRANSFORMATION<\/strong> begins in that life. Our lives begin to take on that \u201cwhich accords with sound doctrine\u201d (2:1). All the implications of the truth of God begins to be worked out in the details of our lives. Jesus actively comes to rule each part of who we are and what we do.<\/p>\n This visible transformation of lives, homes, and marriages then becomes a effective TESTIMONY<\/strong> to the lost community in which we live. Our lives \u201cadorn the doctrine of God\u201d (2:10). The unbelieving take notice. They become willing to hear the TRUTH.<\/em> Some respond with TRUST.<\/em> And the TRANSFORMATION<\/em> process rolls on, by the power of the Holy Spirit!<\/p>\n