Jesus died to save us from our sins. But so often, this is understood as only saving us from punishment. Verse 14 says it perfectly: Christ died to cleanse us, so that we would be totally committed to every good deed.
We have a new motivation for right living – gratitude. Our lives are always lived in view of His love and sacrifice. He lives inside if us. Even if we are in an unjust situation (like slavery, which Paul is not saying is good), we can still live exemplary lives, because of Christ.
Good wants our hearts, our character. Every day He is leading us and seeking to grow us through our choices, and hard times, and His encouragement. We won’t grow on accident, our choices are motivated by more than what is easy or practical. Our hearts are filled as we follow Christ.
Titus 2:9-16
9Slaves must always obey their masters and do their best to please them. They must not talk back 10or steal, but must show themselves to be entirely trustworthy and good. Then they will make the teaching about God our Savior attractive in every way.
11For the grace of God has been revealed, bringing salvation to all people. 12And we are instructed to turn from godless living and sinful pleasures. We should live in this evil world with wisdom, righteousness, and devotion to God, 13while we look forward with hope to that wonderful day when the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, will be revealed. 14He gave his life to free us from every kind of sin, to cleanse us, and to make us his very own people, totally committed to doing good deeds.
15You must teach these things and encourage the believers to do them. You have the authority to correct them when necessary, so don’t let anyone disregard what you say.
I cannot imagine the selflessness of being a slave in the 1st century, being submissive to your master and having the attitude of Christ. I’m sure these Christians leaned on Jesus 24/7, and in doing so their love knew no bounds. “O For A Love That Will Not Fail”