It Starts Small

¹⁵ To the pure, everything is pure, but to those who are defiled and unbelieving nothing is pure; in fact, both their mind and conscience are defiled. ¹⁶ They claim to know God, but they deny him by their works. They are detestable, disobedient, and unfit for any good work.

Titus 1:15-16

 To the pure, everything is pure,

We must passionately safeguard the integrity of this verse within its rightful context. Sadly, many, driven by selfish desires, have attempted to distort this profound message to justify their sinful actions. They twist its meaning, seeking to rationalize indulgence in the flesh. This statement serves as a powerful reminder that our motivations matter immensely and that God scrutinizes our hearts. Misusing this verse for personal gratification starkly reveals the manipulator’s impure intentions. Even the very act highlights their misuse of its truth.

But what does it mean?

Paul fervently applies this verse to the insidious group of false teachers that Titus must bravely confront. His message is clear: their motives are deeply flawed, echoing from a heart consumed by corruption. Consequently, every action they take—no matter how pure, innocent, or seemingly good—becomes tainted by their underlying selfishness. The pollution of their motives darkens even the most outwardly righteous endeavors. It reveals a stark truth. What glistens on the surface often conceals a rotting core.

For instance, they might emphasize the profound importance of following the Ten Commandments. They also stress adhering to the entirety of the Old Testament law. At first glance, this seems commendable; after all, we are called to uphold these divine mandates. But therein lies a perilous trap; they seek to enforce the law and the old covenant upon their followers. They spread a doctrine of salvation by works. It ensnares the unsuspecting in suffocating bonds of a joyless religion reliant on self-merit. This robs individuals of the glorious freedom found in true grace.

On the other hand, a fervent preacher who truly understands the profound depths of God’s grace can boldly proclaim the magnificent atonement of Christ on the cross. This allows them to deliver the truths of the Old Testament in a message that resonates with purity and vigor.

The key takeaway from this is that God looks at the heart.

All a person’s ways seem right to him,
but the Lord weighs hearts.
Proverbs 21:2

³⁴ Brood of vipers! How can you speak good things when you are evil? For the mouth speaks from the overflow of the heart.
Matthew 12:34

What examples in the Bible reveal the truth that actions can be tainted by misguided motives? Even actions that appear righteous on the surface can be affected. Consider the sheer paradox of doing what is deemed correct yet shrouded in ulterior intentions. In contrast, let us boldly celebrate the seemingly humble acts, the small deeds driven by pure, selfless motivations! These are the moments that deeply touch our hearts. They teach us that the essence of our actions lies not in their grandeur. It lies in the purity of our spirit behind them.

One remarkable illustration is found in those who generously offered to God within the sacred temple. While some poured forth substantial sums, their giving was driven by a desire for public recognition. In stark contrast, Jesus cherished the humble gift of the widow. It was a true reflection of her heartfelt sincerity. Her profound faith was evident.

We must passionately examine the motives of our hearts. If you serve the Lord, take a moment to reflect on the true reasons behind your actions. Be brutally honest with yourself. Recognize your yearning for praise and your vulnerability to criticism—these are powerful forces that can shape your journey.

In verse 16, Paul passionately declares that actions speak far louder than mere words. You will recognize a tree by its fruit. This group of individuals may have presented a compelling facade; their eloquent speech was likely enchanting and convincing. Yet beneath the surface, their actions betrayed their true nature, revealing that they did not genuinely belong to Christ. Since their hearts were far from Him, they became “unfit for any good work.” No matter how impressive their deeds may have appeared, God rejected them. Their hearts did not serve Him.

Jesus made it clear what will happen to all of the fakes.

²¹ “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father in heaven.
Matthew 7:21

Are you just talking the talk, or are you walking the walk? How can sincere believers properly evaluate their hearts?

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Cross-References

• Psalms 51:10
• Proverbs 4:23

Discussion Questions

• What does the phrase mean, “to the pure all things are pure?” How can we understand this phrase within its context?
• What does verse 15 teach us about the importance of the heart?
• Why is nothing pure to an unbeliever?
• How does one’s conscience become defiled?
• How can one’s conscience be sanctified?
• What kind of works show that a person does not know God?
• What practical application can you make based on this passage?

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