Traditional Lens Commentary: Titus 3:3-8

Traditional Lens Reading of Titus 3:3-8

Tradition-Specific Interpretation

We read Titus 3:3-8 as a powerful testament to the transformative power of God's grace, emphasizing the shift from our past, characterized by sin and bondage, to our present state of salvation and renewal through the Holy Spirit. This passage underscores the doctrine of salvation by grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone, highlighting God's mercy rather than human merit as the basis for our salvation. The text reminds us that our justification is a divine act, accomplished through the substitutionary atonement of Christ, and applied to us by the Holy Spirit's regenerating work.

Key Language Decisions

The Greek word for 'regeneration' (παλιγγενεσία) in verse 5 is significant, as it conveys the idea of a new birth, aligning with our tradition's emphasis on being 'born again.' The term 'justified' (δικαιόω) in verse 7 underscores a legal declaration of righteousness, consistent with our understanding of justification by faith. These lexical choices support our doctrinal emphasis on the forensic nature of justification and the transformative work of regeneration by the Holy Spirit.

Where Traditions Diverge

Our tradition diverges from Roman Catholicism, which emphasizes the necessity of sacraments for the infusion of grace, whereas we affirm salvation by grace through faith, apart from works or sacraments. Additionally, unlike some liberal theological traditions that might downplay the need for personal faith or the specificity of Christ's atonement, we hold firmly to the necessity of personal faith in Christ alone for salvation.

Pastoral Application

In preaching this passage, a Traditional Lens pastor should emphasize the radical change that God's grace brings, encouraging believers to remember their past condition and to rejoice in their present salvation. This text is a call to humility, recognizing that our salvation is entirely due to God's mercy. Pastors should remind the congregation of the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit in sanctification, urging them to live lives that reflect their new identity in Christ. The congregation would expect to hear the assurance of their secure standing before God, grounded in the finished work of Christ on the cross.

Cross-References: Ephesians 2:1-10; Romans 5:1-11; John 3:3-8; 2 Corinthians 5:17; Galatians 2:16

Doctrinal Connections: salvation by grace alone; justification by faith; regeneration; substitutionary atonement; the transformative work of the Holy Spirit