Our Motivation

Titus 3:1  Remind them to be submissive to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good work, 2 to speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and to show perfect courtesy toward all people. 3 For we ourselves were once foolish, disobedient, led astray, slaves to various passions and pleasures, passing our days in malice and envy, hated by others and hating one another. 4 But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared, 5 he saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit, 6 whom he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior, 7 so that being justified by his grace we might become heirs according to the hope of eternal life.

Verses 3 through 6 are often recognized as a great summary of the work of Christ. It begins with the word "but," indicating that God did something to change everything.  He send Christ, by His grace, to be our Savior.  The Holy Spirit also was very much involved, giving us new birth and cleansing.  This changed us from who we used to be - disobedient, lost, self-willed and self-centered.  Working our way back up through the passage, this should be our motivation for submission to authority, obedience to God, good works, loving speech, and respect for others. The work of Christ is a game-changer in all our relationships.