Before and After
Titus 3:3-7
Pastor Jerry Koller

These 5 verses can be divided into two sections, which is easy for anyone to remember—a before and an after.

The before part is reflected in verse 3:

A better word for passions is lusts. Lust is a longing or strong desire for that which is forbidden.

Hedonism is the strong desire and pursuit of those things that bring us pleasure.

Malice is not just the desire to cause ill-will or injury to someone, it is the underlying principle of evil itself—inherent evil.

In verses 4 and 5, we see how one transitions from being lost to being saved. It is a result of God’s kindness, love, and mercy.

The word appeared has to do with being seen and understood; to bring to light.

The first way salvation comes to us: through the washing of rebirth.
· There are two issues at stake here. One is a heart issue. The other is a sin issue.
· Throughout time, water was used to symbolize cleansing in many, many religions—including Judaism.

In addition to this washing, rebirth is required.
· Another word for this is regeneration or being born again.

No one can renew their fallen, spiritual nature.
· No one can become born again on their own.

How then does this rebirth come about if it is impossible for man to achieve? through the Holy Spirit,
· through renewing by the Holy Spirit.
· The word renewing has to do with a renewal or change of heart and life that is affected by the Holy Spirit.

Those in Christ have this power in abundance for the Holy Spirit has been poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior.

Justified is a judicial term that has to do with being cleared of all charges.

We stand before God not as sinners condemned to death

Heirs are those who receive their allotted possession by right of sonship.

Biblical hope is something that will come true because it is a strong and confident expectation.

Address the Before
· We are all sinners.
· We are all foolish and disobedient.
· We are all deceived and enslaved by our lusts and passions.

Address the Catalyst
· Through the kindness, love, and mercy of God.
· Through grace.
· These are all expressed through Jesus’ shed blood, through His death on the cross, and through His resurrection from the dead.
· God has provided a way for our sins to be forgiven.
· He has provided a way for us to receive salvation/eternal life.
· The invitation was extended to you and you accepted it.

Address the After
· You are no longer foolish and disobedient.
· You are no longer deceived and enslaved by your lusts and passions.
· You are a child of God and as such, you are an heir.
· You have the hope—the strong and confident expectation—of eternal life.
· You are not perfect, by God is helping you become more like Jesus every day.

As you share your faith story, keep in mind the fact that you are a messenger of truth. You are not the Holy Spirit.
· You cannot renew anyone.
· You cannot draw one to Christ apart from Him.
· You cannot give spiritual understanding.
· And you cannot change hearts.

· Mike & Linda Rooker and their family upon the loss of Linda’s aunt, Diane Martin, on 7/9
· Caroline Bocock has been terribly ill as she is dealing with a Lyme Disease outbreak. She has begun a treatment regimen that looks promising. Please pray that it is effective and that she will be feeling better soon.
· The Marshall Family: Give praise that Dan’s request for a flexible work arrangement was approved by the executive board at his job. Continue to pray for Nolan who is still struggling.
· Chris Tragna (Kristen Schultz' mother) is recovering from a stroke, and they are working through her healing as well as looking at options for 24 hour care. Please keep her and her family in prayer as she recovers and decisions are made.
· Leslie Robinson (friend of Bruce & Vasha Ferguson) is home and using a walker. Thank God for His mercy and faithfulness, and please continue praying for her full recovery.
· Sadie (29 year-old friend of Steve & Lisa Follman) had a liver transplant shortly after birth and is now having a lot of health complications. She is receiving palliative care. Also keep her family in prayer.
· Terry Buckley (father of Keith Buckley) is being evaluated for heart issues.
· Joyce Bocock has completed chemo and radiation; praise God that both tumors have shrunk significantly more than expected; evaluating additional treatment options.
· Check out our monthly prayer card on-line at southhavenfbc.com under “Weekly Bulletins” for a list of those with on-going needs.

First Baptist Church
1635 76th Street
South Haven, MI 49090
269-637-1291
southhavenfbc@gmail.com