Notes by Mary Van Nattan unless marked otherwise.
Titus 1:16 They profess that they know God; but in works they deny him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate.
What are your good works? Are they really good? Or, are they nothing more than the unsaved would do? If some saved people had to be "condemned" as Christians by their good works and testimony, there would be so little that the lawyer could not get the verdict "guilty of being a Christian!"
We need to look well to the work of the Lord and make sure that the "good works" we are doing really do glorify our Father which is in heaven (Matthew 5:16). Going to craft classes at the church house, making up food boxes for the poor, having girls' tea parties, and many other things are portrayed as proof of Christianity by some. But, they are not truely good works simply because nothing spiritual is done. God doesn't get the glory. There is no witness, no spiritual food given out, nothing to distinguish these things from worldly events of that sort, except hopefully the lack of profanity and wicked talk.
If the gospel was included in the "good work" things that you do, or if there was a Bible study at the gathering, would you still go? Would take your friend? Or are you "unto every good work reprobate"? Does it make you uncomfortable to have to sit through a Bible study? Do you really not enjoy "fun" events that include "too much" spiritual learning? If so, you are professing to know God, but are denying Him in your works! If this verse describes you, then you need to get down on your knees, confess your abominableness, and ask God to help you obey His word so that you can do real good works that will glorify Him! 1Corinthians 10:31 Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.
graphics by mary vannattan
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