God poured Holy Spirit out on us generously through Jesus

A. God’s grace as the grounds for the teachings (11-15)

1) Recommended actions and behavior (1, 2)

Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good, to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and to show true humility toward all men. (1, 2)

2) The reason of the reminder (3-8)

At one time we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another. But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life. This is a trustworthy saying. And I want you to stress these things, so that those who have trusted in God may be careful to devote themselves to doing what is good. These things are excellent and profitable for everyone. (3-8)

B. The last warning (9-11)

But avoid foolish controversies and genealogies and arguments and quarrels about the law, because these are unprofitable and useless. Warn a divisive person once, and then warn him a second time. After that, have nothing to do with him. You may be sure that such a man is warped and sinful; he is self-condemned. (9-11)

C. The last directions and greetings(12-15)

As soon as I send Artemas or Tychicus to you, do your best to come to me at Nicopolis, because I have decided to winter there. Do everything you can to help Zenas the lawyer and Apollos on their way and see that they have everything they need. Our people must learn to devote themselves to doing what is good, in order that they may provide for daily necessities and not live unproductive lives. Everyone with me sends you greetings. Greet those who love us in the faith. Grace be with you all. (12-15)

SUMMARY

Through believing in Jesus, we have been saved from the old way of life. It does not mean that our nature was changed instantly, but we have been given the new yardstick for our life. We have decided to see the life through our new yardstick, which is Jesus, instead of using the old one we had, which was our own desire. We can live our new life even though we have the old nature in us, for God poured the Holy Spirit out on us generously through Jesus.

FOR DISCUSSION

1) Share some examples of recommended behavior.
2) If Paul wrote the letter to yourchurch, what would he remind us?