7 behaviors of a genuine Christian Life

Read Titus 3.

Consistently, the Apostle Paul urged that sound Christian belief will always show itself in sound Christian behavior.  A profession of faith is to lead to performance of faith.  And, if that performance of a changed behavior is not seen, then it is time to call into question whether or not that person is a genuine believer at all.

As one tire manufacturer used to state in their advertisements, "This is where the rubber meets the road."

In verses 1-2, all those who know Jesus regularly need these seven reminders.
1. We are to be submissive to authorities.
This is a heart attitude of humility and respect for those who are in positions over us.  These would include government leaders, police officers, game referees, or a boss at work.  The same expectation was mentioned in 2:5 and 2:7.

2. We are to be obedient. 
This is the action of true submission.  Rebellion and disobedience begins in an unsubmissive heart and then acts out in a violation.  A person of integrity shows congruity between one's attitude and actions.

3. We are to be ready for every good work.
This is not referring to just being busy but it is the eagerness to what is right.  In 3:8, Paul instructed Titus "to insist on these things so that those who believed in God may be careful to devote themselves to good works." 

4. We are to speak evil of no one.
To malign someone is the practice of hurting others by slander.  Gossip and slander have split more churches than false teaching.  It is the coward's way of not dealing with real issues.  Jesus, Paul and James warn that God holds everyone accountable for their words.

5. We are not to be quarrelsome.
It is one thing to disagree.  It is quite another to be contentious.  Ephesians 4:2-3 states that our words are to be characterized "with all humility and gentleness with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace."

6. We are to be gentle.
When problems do arise (and they will) we are to handle those in disagreement and their issues with gentleness.  According to Galatians 5:23, gentleness is a result of the Holy Spirit being in control.

7. We are to show perfect courtesy toward all people.
The bully, the self-centered, the angry person, or the unthinking will only see themselves as important.  As a follower of Christ, when we interact with others, we must be considerate of their feelings and respectful of their viewpoints.  This is especially true when hard decisions must be made.  While it is impossible to please everyone, we always want to treat people with kindness.