Discuss the “epiphany” theme in the Pastorals. What is it? Within this “epiphany-context” what is the meaning of “good works” and sensibility?

It is striking to think of Paul writing the Pastoral Epistles towards the end of his ministry when death was near, and he was encouraging Timothy and Titus in their ministries in a two-fold manor. First, the epiphany them is when Paul talks about the two appearances or manifestations of Jesus Christ in the world. The coming of Christ into the world through Mary, his earthly ministry, death and resurrection are all part of the first epiphany. That is the ushering in of Christ’s kingdom into the world through the inauguration of his earthly reign. It is related to the present age, where sin and suffering still occur but have been conquered by the humiliation and exaltation of Jesus Christ. The kingdom has been inaugurated.

The second manifestation of Jesus Christ will be at the second coming when the inaugurated kingdom is consummated in the judgment and resurrection of all. That is the age to come where the New Jerusalem will be established and redemption will be fully realized. While the first coming of Christ has bought and paid for the sins of the world, there is a “not yet” component to the full realization of redemption accomplished and applied. The second epiphany will be the consummated kingdom that Paul now longs for as he stares at death’s door.

As such, it is important to realize while our good works do not earn our salvation they are a part of the fruit of our salvation in the present age. Our motivation for these good works rests in the future glory at the resurrection of the dead, and the present glory in declaring the gospel of Jesus Christ in word and deed. Paul reminds Timothy (2 Tim 1:9-10) that Christ has destroyed death and brought life through his initial coming, but has brought immortal life through is second coming. However, Christ has brought us life to live in abundance by being faithful, obedient and living godly lives eager to do good works for the sake of Christ in the present age (Titus 2:11-14). The good works do not redeem us, for only Christ can do that, but it is because of our redemption that we, like Timothy, Titus and Paul are spurred on to joyously lead godly lives filled with good works that exemplify Christ to the world.