Keep Reading

I often read scripture I’ve read time and time again and ask, “why is this statement here?” I also ask if what I’ve heard about the scripture is accurate.
Has it been explained with the cause and effect in the correct order?

Case in point.  Last night I was reading Titus 2 and came across a familiar passage of scripture in verses 11 and 12.  “For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world;” I have read this and taught on it many times.  What stuck out to me was at the end of the verse. There is a semicolon, which indicates the thought continues.

So, let’s keep reading.  “Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; Who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto Himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.” (Titus 2:13-14 KJV) This completes the thought which began in verse 11.  The Grace of God is not by our efforts.  Jesus, Himself, redeems and purifies His people.  The natural outcome is a people who are excited to do good.

I understood for so long, we are to live holy and blameless to curry favor with with God.  I tried extremely hard to live up to such a standard.  I was self righteous when I got it right.  I was self loathing and condemned when I got it wrong.

I didn’t understand the point of the semicolon; keep reading until you get to the period.

Paul was known to preach through the night.  Is it any wonder he wrote in run-on sentences?  Keep reading until you get the complete thought.  You will have a greater understanding of God’s Grace and enjoy a peculiar life; The Grace Life.