Titus 2:12-13

This grace that has appeared is the very thing that gets us to do what Paul is calling us to do. It is what trains us to put away ungodliness and to live self-controlled lives. It's not that we are the ones who first act and clean up ourselves. This grace of God that has appeared is what trains us to move away from the filth and move towards the things of God. But why or what's the point of this? It is a preparing for the appearing of the glory of Jesus. Those who are followers of the Lord Jesus Christ are waiting in hopeful anticipation for his coming. Waiting for his return also means that they are ready for his return. It's like the virgins in Matthew who are waiting with their lamps. Some were not prepared and did not bring enough oil. They had to leave to get more oil, and when they left, the bridegroom arrived. By the time they had gotten more oil and came back, they were unable to enter the wedding banquet for the door had been shut. Similarly, earlier in Matthew, we read about how the day and hour is unknown. It will come like a thief in the night. If someone knew when the thief would arrive, then he would be ready during that time, but he does not know. Also, the owner of a house may be away for a long time. Servants in charge may take advantage of this and not be diligent while the master is away. The master may return at a time unexpected to find the servant in an unfaithful manner. For the return of Jesus, we should be ready as a servant in charge of a master's house works diligently while the master is away.