From: "Phil Rembleski" <PHIl@rescuechurchofchrist.org>

To: "1111RESCUEMEMBERS"

Cc:

Sent: Wed, Apr 30, 2025 at 5:54 AM

Subject: 4-30-25 THOUGHTS

4-30-25   THOUGHTS

Verses 8 and 14 are “bookends” for our reading this morning.  Both passages press a careful learning for us about “GOOD DEEDS”.  One says they are “profitable”, the latter wants us to “not be unfruitful.”!    I love the words  “learn to engage in good deeds to meet pressing needs...”.  The middle section of the text warns us about things that are “unprofitable and worthless”.  The Church is told to reject a “factious man.”   These things are leaven in our midst, breaking down our  “love fellowship”!   “Grace be with you all.”

Titus 3:8-15     This is a trustworthy statement; and concerning these things I want you to speak confidently, so that those who have believed God will be careful to engage in good deeds. These things are good and profitable for men.  9   But avoid foolish controversies and genealogies and strife and disputes about the Law, for they are unprofitable and worthless.  10  Reject a factious man after a first and second warning, 11  knowing that such a man is perverted and is sinning, being self-condemned. 12  When I send Artemas or Tychicus to you, make every effort to come to me at Nicopolis, for I have decided to spend the winter there. 13  Diligently help Zenas the lawyer and Apollos on their way so that nothing is lacking for them. 14  Our people must also learn to engage in good deeds to meet pressing needs, so that they will not be unfruitful. 15  All who are with me greet you. Greet those who love us in the faith. Grace be with you all.

My Prayer:
Father, You have brought grace to us in Christ Jesus.  In our daily association with each other, may grace, and love and unity of spirit abound.  May we act  out what is profitable and fruitful.
Keep us from the worthless, O God.  Help us to be discerning in every thought and action.  In every corner, help us to compassionately provide what is lacking and engage in actions that meet pressing needs.  Lord, You have sent us forth as “reapers to a harvest that is white”, motivate and empower us to joyful action.   It is always in the name of our Lord,    Amen.