Titus 2:11-14
11 For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men,
12 teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age,
13 looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ,
14 who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from every lawless deed and purify for Himself His own special people, zealous for good works.
This is a passage that is long and has multiple good points that can easily be misunderstood.
To summarize verses 11 through 14, I would say this:
The grace of God trains us how to live as we wait for the return of Jesus who redeemed us to be zealous for good works.
Now that removes some of the goodness of the passage, but sometimes drilling into the main intent and message is helpful in understanding.
So, the first main point, the grace of God is teaching us.
The word there is really discipline, training, correcting us.
Yes, teaching, but with the idea that we must change from our old ways.
As a new creature in Christ, we need to be trained in the ways of the Lord.
So that we will live a godly life now and ongoing.
The second main point, while we are looking for the return of Christ.
The one who has redeemed us and made us sinless with His blood.
Making us His people, His family.
His people who are "zealous for good works".
Zealous means eagerly desiring, enthusiastic, deeply committed to a thing.
The words for good works, means beautiful or better or commendable or excellent deeds.
Actions taken to bless and do well for others in Jesus' name.
Morally good and noble activities.
Because of the salvation He gives us.
Salvation and redemption in Jesus, makes us want to have good works.
The change the Lord makes in our hearts produces the generous deeds.
Are we eagerly serving the Lord?
Eager to help others in Jesus' name?
It is a heartfelt attitude, and we need to cultivate it, grow it with God's word.