This is a faithful saying and these things I want you to affirm constantly, that those who have believed in God should be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable to men. (Titus 3:8)

Good Doctrine By Example

One of the most important elements of the church is the area of doctrine. When the doctrines of the church are taught, rules are explained, guidelines set forth and the pattern of New Testament authority is established within the law of God, the church will become firmly entrenched in the manner designed by the Lord for His church. This type of teaching is necessary for the fundamental purpose of the church to carry out its mission. Beyond the classroom of codified commandments is the conduct of the believers in Christ to show their faith in their lives. Good doctrine comes from teaching the word of God but it is also found in the manner of life exhibited by those who proclaim their allegiance to Christ.

The necessity of keeping commandments is clear. But this will have little impact on others who see Christians living in a manner conflicting with their faith. Paul is admonishing Titus to remind the brethren to show their faith in the Lord. All who trust in God must devote themselves to showing others a pattern of good works. When children of God murmur and complain against the government, they are not showing a pattern of good works. Christians must submit to the government and be obedient, always ready to do what is good. How can the light of Christ be seen in saints who defame, and abuse and ridicule leaders of the nation?

Showing a pattern of good works is to not speak evil of any person. Children of God show a pattern of goodness when they seek to live peaceable, and gentle and humble lives before all men. There was a time in the life of a Christian when they lived without self-control. Those days are gone. As people of God, the life of a Christian is a pattern of good works because the kindness of God was poured out in their hearts with the mercy and grace of the Lord. Those who are heirs of eternal life show the world they believe in God by the way they live. Jesus told the eleven as they walked toward Gethsemane the world would know the people of God by the way they love one another. The love of God is manifested in the example of His children.

Sound doctrine is not just teaching the right things in the right way. Showing a pattern of good works exemplifies the message of the doctrine of Christ. Jesus taught the will of the Father and he lived the will of the Father. The child of God must live by the will of the Father and pattern their life after the will of the Father. Be careful to maintain good works. This will show the world what you believe.