Pastor’s Pen Pulpit

December 2, 2001

“WHEN GRACE APPEARED”

Titus 2:11, 12

For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all men, instructing us to deny ungodliness and worldly desires and to live sensibly, righteously and godly in the present age.

Titus 2:11-14 puts the Christmas message in shoe leather. In this passage there are two appearings: the appearing of His Grace (v.11), and the appearing of His Glory (v.13). The appearing of His grace extends from the incarnation (Christ’s birth) throughout the Church Age or the Age of Grace. The appearing of His glory (His second coming) terminates the Age of Grace. This morning we will look at the appearing of His grace.

1. The Manifestation of the Grace of God in History [v.11]

The manner in which the grace of God appeared – The definition of appear is “to bring to light - to uncover - to fully make known.” The appearance of grace is personified in Jesus Christ. God uses a variety of expressions to declare this historic event. (Gal 4:5; John 1:14; Luke 2:11) Perhaps the most significant is “the grace of God”, for this defined man’s greatest need which is seen in the motive of the appearing of the Grace of God:

For the Law was given through Moses, grace, and truth were realized through Jesus Christ. John 1:17

The motive in the appearing of the Grace of God

II Timothy 1:9-10 tells us that Christ brought salvation to all men. Salvation is not universally applied to all men - but universally available: salvation sufficient to save any and all - but efficient only to those who come in faith (Isaiah 55:1).

2. The Manifestation of the Grace of God in Human Lives [v. 12]

As children of God we should deny ungodliness and worldly lusts and live soberly and sensibly, with soundness of mind. A mind that is set in proper balance. A mind that has gained mastery over self through the salvation that frees from the shackles of sin.

A believer should have control of himself (Proverbs 16:32, 25:28). When the Holy Spirit has control of you, you have control of yourself. To live righteously means that our outward conduct compliments the righteous character of God which evokes God’s approval.

Christians should be godly (reverent) as they are the closest view of God that the ungodly sees. Are you a showcase for the world to see God? Am I?

Christians should live godly in this present evil age. This world is our playing field, our battleground, our arena. This is where living takes place. This is where testimonies are accepted or rejected.

Have you been active on the battlefield, in the arena this week? As we approach this Christmas season, let’s take a fresh look at the Grace of God and let our lives reflect that Grace.

Love to you all,