A theme

In the book of Titus, a mere 3 chapters long, there is a powerful theme. One wonders what is going on in Crete that Paul is emphasizing it so much. Could it be that the tendency of the Cretans to be lazy keeps them from doing what they should? Could it be that they are self-absorbed and so don't see the need for a "greater gospel" proclamation through what they do. Whatever it is (I'm sure if I took the time to do some more background an answer would arise), Paul goes after this theme over and over again. Here it is:

16 They profess to know God, but they deny him by their works. They are detestable, disobedient, unfit for any good work. Titus 1 7 Show yourself in all respects to be a model of good works, Titus 2 11 For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people, 12 training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age, 13 waiting for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, 14 who gave himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to purify for himself a people for his own possession who are zealous for good works. Titus 2 3:1 Remind them to be submissive to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good work Titus 3 8 The saying is trustworthy, and I want you to insist on these things, so that those who have believed in God may be careful to devote themselves to good works. These things are excellent and profitable for people. Titus 3 14 And let our people learn to devote themselves to good works, so as to help cases of urgent need, and not be unfruitful. Titus 3

For the believers in Crete, good works, are a huge deal. I wonder how big of a deal they are to us and for that matter what do we consider good works. I think that the rest of Titus gives us some pictures of what it looks like to do good works. It's possible that some of those ways have not occurred to us.