Titus 3:3-8 - “At one time we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another. But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life. This is a trustworthy saying. And I want you to stress these things, so that those who have trusted in God may be careful to devote themselves to doing what is good. These things are excellent and profitable for everyone.”

The Cretans were known to be quite a brutish people. In that setting, Titus was ministering to the believers in Crete and writing this letter to encourage the faithful. So when he begins that “at one time” they were foolish, they would be very familiar and quick to agree, they too were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved. But the kindness and mercy of God was displayed through baptism (washing of rebirth) and the Spirit’s ministry.

This is a different way of recalling our past. If you recall your high school years you will probably cringe at what you wore and perhaps remember with some regrets that you hope will never be repeated in our lifetime! (A lesson well learned!) But the recalling for the Christian is in light of the kindness of God. We admit that we were such brutes and foolish, but in that, Christ came in kindness washing us through baptism and renewing us as a new people of God with a brand new purpose.

As we anticipate baptism worship celebration this weekend, let us turn our attention to the kindness of God. Isn’t that what our testimonies are all about?

RESPONSE: Let’s thank God for his kindness as we look back at the mercy He has shown us.

Song of worship: “It’s Your Kindness That Leads Us To Repentance” by Leslie Philipps (an oldie but goodie)
https://youtu.be/xeZe1NzjNoQ

-MK