«Remind them to be subject to rulers and authorities, to obey, to be ready for every good work» (Titus 3:1).
IN THE LAST CHAPTER of this short letter to Titus, the apostle Paul outlines how to follow God’s will, as well as warnings to avoid discussions and divisions and his support for missionaries.
God hopes that His will might be reflected in the obedient lives of His children and that they will be treated as His children, with goodness and kindness (v. 2). Paul reminded us of our sinful past as disobedient people, but thanks to God’s goodness, the incarnation of Christ, and the work of the Holy Spirit, we were cleansed of our sins, justified, and transformed to new lives and an eternal inheritance (v. 3—7).
He then warned him to be vigilant about controversial issues: Titus was not to engage in unnecessary or futile discussions (v. 8, 9).
Paul finally ended his letter by referring to and greeting four of his collaborators and asked Titus to support the missionary journeys of those involved in preaching the gospel (v. 12—15).
Paul’s attitude of giving advice about important and other seemingly simple topics is a great example for us all. We learn from this that the church is a place where every detail deserves our attention and where everyone needs to be cared for and empowered. That care feeds, renews, and leads them to bear many fruits.
The Säo Francisco Valley in Brazil has been in operation approximately twenty-five years. Innovation and technology seek to improve the production of certain fruits. The climate is not favorable because it is dry and warm. However, the vines produce grapes three times a year. It is the only place on the planet where this happens. It is not a miracle of multiplication, but a miracle of irrigation.By controlling the water, their life cycle is controlled. Although the region has water restrictions, the semi-arid soil grows these fruits all year round.
Likewise, if the heart of the believer is properly irrigated, we develop happier, more faithful and more fruitful lives. «The life of Christ in you produces the same fruits as in Him. Living in Christ, adhering to Christ, supported by Christ, drawing nourishment from Christ, you bear fruit after the similitude of Christ» (The Desire of Ages, p. 677).