Everything is pure to those whose hearts are pure. But nothing is pure to those who are corrupt and unbelieving, because their minds and consciences are corrupted. Such people claim they know God, but they deny him by the way they live. They are detestable and disobedient, worthless for doing anything good. [Titus 1.15-16]
The second part (verse 16) of the passage above should cause great concern among believers and serve as a sober warning. Paul warns that there are those who are corrupt and unbelieving because their minds and consciences are corrupted... But here is the kicker, such people claim they know God! And, it gets worse, even though they claim to know God, they deny Him by the way they live.
I don't think Paul would have pointed this out unless it was a real problem. What this tells me is that we should pay close attention to what we 'allow' ourselves! By this, I mean we cannot live lives that show no faith in God whatsoever, then claim that we know Him!
We have all heard or said ourselves, "I just struggle with faith and trusting God..." This confession indicts us of denying God Who commands us to trust Him. But then, with the same mouth, we claim we know God and that He understands our weaknesses! WHAT?
Paul says this kind of logic is detestable and disobedient, worthless for doing anything good.
We cannot deny here then the clarity of what James said in his letter:
What good is it, dear brothers and sisters, if you say you have faith but don’t show it by your actions? Can that kind of faith save anyone? [James 2.14]
The answer to James' question is: NO! It doesn't matter what we say! If faith is not seen in our actions, then we are corrupt and unbelieving, because our minds and consciences are corrupted. Hello!
Father, forgive me for a confession of relationship with You unsupported by the way I live.
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