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,
“Why should I?” Many a child has wanted to ask that question of a parent but hopefully didn’t dare. Likewise, Vicki, being a math teacher, may have heard a thousand times the question, “Why should I learn algebra if I will never use it?” This is another form of “Why should I?” The Apostle Paul wrote these verses to Timothy in answer to the unasked question, “Why should I be self-disciplined and teach the flock to do the same?” Why? Because we are saved. That’s why. Because God had mercy on us. Because the forgiveness of sins has already come. This is important. Paul is not commanding the people of the church in Ephesus to be godly so that they will be saved. He is commanding them to be self-disciplined because they already are saved.
Too many Christians miss the answer to the question, “Why should I?” It is not so God says, “Wow! You are really great at obeying my law! Therefore, your duty is done. You are saved!” No! We are self-disciplined and godly to show our gratitude for Jesus because he died for our sins. We are grateful for the forgiveness of sins so the last thing we want to do is anything that would offend or grieve the God who did so much for us. The big difference is assurance. The first person hopes they are saved while the second KNOWS they are saved. The dead giveaway will be joy, confidence and boldness. Why should I?
You KNOW the answer.