Good Works

Titus 3.14

“And let people learn to devote themselves to good works in order to meet urgent needs, so that they may not be unproductive.” NRSV 

The notion, even the mere mention, of good works causes a nervous theological tic in many Protestants. They are instantly suspicious works are being imported into a grace only theology of salvation. 

We are, however, to be judged by our works – that much is plain in the teaching of Jesus and Paul.  Even if works don’t affect the final certainty of our salvation, it surely isn’t a case for laxity as our reward is in light of our conduct. Good works matter because they are taken into account - rewarded. They may not initiate salvation, but they certainly reflect the reality of salvation, in that salvation is not a private matter - it has necessary public consequence. 

Back to Titus. Paul isn’t talking of salvation when he speaks about good works in Titus 3.14. Good works can and do have a breadth of application that doesn’t just refer to the works of the law (circumcision, Sabbath adherence, etc).

The context defines the parameters of good works. In this instance Paul is saying that it is a good work to do good works; work is good as it ensures productivity and productivity assists in meeting urgent needs.

If we don’t do the good work of work, we won’t be able to show good works when good works are in order. The good work being done is the supply of another’s urgency. It is the good Samaritan providing the living expenses of the beaten man. Stopping on the road wasn’t the good work, it only began the good work - the good work of urgent care, paid for the Samaritan’s labour.

This points to employment. Paul is definitive when he (elsewhere) speaks of the value, urgency and necessity of working so that we might have a sufficiency that overflows into provision for other believers (mainly). This is indeed good work, as you become the means of another without means.

We can sum up Paul’s intention: he is saying to Titus that we need to devote ourselves to working so we might have enough left to help others. In so doing we will live lives of productivity, generously providing for those in need. This is the good work envisioned in this verse at the end of Titus.  It is salvation rolling up its sleeves.