Building Up Others

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
John Newton’s life was dramatic, not least in how he changed from being a slave trader to one who, after he came to faith in Christ, influenced the eighteenth-century movement to abolish slavery in England. Although many thought he was a Christian when he nearly drowned at sea, he admitted that he was not fully converted to Christ until much later. He said that his faith flourished when he met a ship captain who helped him receive the gift of grace and instructed him theologically. Newton’s life was never the same.
His story illustrates our need for mentors, which is reflected in Paul’s letter to Titus. The apostle instructed this leader of the church in Crete to remind the believers of their new life in Christ. No longer were they “foolish, disobedient and deceived” (Titus 3:3); rather, God saved them because of His mercy (v 5). Paul wanted Titus to “stress these things” for the good of the believers (v 8), that they would leave their old life behind and embrace the things of God’s kingdom. They needed wise people to help them live with gentleness and humility and to reflect the character of Christ.
We can take encouragement from the stories of John Newton and the church in Crete. Not only can our faith in God be strengthened through others, but we too can be used to build up the faith of fellow Christians.
Bible Reading
Titus 3:1–11.
Prayer
Loving God, help me to pass on from the riches that You give me. I want to share with others from the goodness of your grace and mercy. Amen.
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