Definition: To Titus, [mine] own son after the common faith: Grace, mercy, [and] peace, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ our Saviour.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down that verse from Titus 1:4. It’s a really important message about God's love and how He offers forgiveness and hope to us. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, this verse is saying: “To Titus, my own son after the common faith – meaning a son who shares our belief – I give you grace, mercy, and peace, all from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ our Saviour.” Let's unpack that a little further: "Titus, my own son..." This refers to Titus, a trusted apostle of Jesus Christ. It’s a special relationship between God and someone he trusts deeply. "after the common faith..." “Common faith” means a belief in one true God – that is, believing in a single divine being. It's not about specific traditions or opinions, but rather a fundamental truth. "...grace, mercy, and peace..." These are three core things that God offers us: Grace: This is God’s unearned favor or loving kindness towards us, without anything we deserve. It's like a gift, not something we earn. Mercy: This is God’s forgiveness – extending love and pardon to us for our sins. It doesn’t mean we don’t deserve punishment, but that God chooses to forgive us anyway. Peace: This represents a feeling of tranquility, safety, and contentment - a state of being freed from worry and anxiety. "...from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ our Saviour." This is the most important part! It means God – through His Son, Jesus Christ – is offering us salvation . Salvation means being saved or rescued from our sins and guilt. Jesus Christ is the way we all need to go to get to God. In a nutshell: God wants to forgive us for our mistakes, give us peace with Him, and lead us to a relationship with Him. He offers this through His Son, Jesus Christ, who died for our sins. Why is this important? This verse speaks to the core of Christian belief – that God’s love extends to everyone , even those who have strayed from His path. It's a message of forgiveness, hope, and a renewed relationship with God. --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these words in more detail? Give an example of how this verse applies to our lives?