by Ken Cayce
© Ken Cayce All rights reserved.
Copyright
Titus was one of the circle of young men who were the "many witnesses" to whom the apostle Paul committed the things given to him, so they could pass them on to others who in turn would "teach others also" (2 Tim. 2:2). He, together with Timothy, traveled with the apostle Paul. While Timothy was half Jewish and half Gentile, Titus was of purely Gentile extraction (Gal. 2: 1-3).
Title: This epistle is named for its recipient, Titus, who is mentioned by name 13 times in the New Testament. The title in the Greek New Testament literally reads "To Titus. Along with 1 and 2 Timothy, these letters to Paul's sons in the faith are traditionally called "The Pastoral Epistles."
Authorship: The epistle claims to have come from the pen of Paul. Its contents bear this out. Paul's purposes in writing were to assist Titus in his task of bringing organization to the disorganized work on the island of Crete, to instruct and encourage Titus in his work, to instruct Titus to assist Zenas and Apollos in their ministry, and to help them get to their next place of ministry (3:13).
Historical Setting: Timothy served as Paul's special apostolic delegate to Ephesus. In like manner, Titus served as Paul's special apostolic delegate to Corinth (2 Cor. 7:6-7; 8:6, 16). About A.D. 63-64, while Paul ministered to Macedonian churches between his first and second Roman imprisonments, Paul traveled with Timothy and Titus. He left Timothy in Ephesus and traveled on to Crete with Titus. Paul left Titus in Crete to provide leadership for the church there (1:5).
Because of his involvement with the church at Corinth during Paul's third missionary journey, Titus is mentioned 9 times in 2 Corinthians (2:13; 7:6, 13-14, 8:6, 16, 23; 12:18), where Paul refers to him as "my brother" (2:13), and "my partner and fellow worker" (8:23). The young elder was already familiar with Judaizers (false teachers in the church), who among other things insisted that all Christians, Gentile as well as Jew, were bound by the mosaic law. Titus had accompanied Paul and Barnabas years earlier to the council of Jerusalem where that heresy was the subject (Acts 15; Gal. 2:1-5).
Crete, one of the largest islands in the Mediterranean Sea, measuring 160 miles long by 35 miles wide, lying south of the Aegean Sea, had been briefly visited by Paul on his voyage to Rome (Acts 27:7-9, 12, 13, 21). He returned there for ministry and later left Titus to continue the work, much as he left Timothy at Ephesus (1 Tim. 1:3), while he went on to Macedonia. He most likely wrote to Titus in response to a letter from Titus or a report from Crete.
Somewhere during the period of A.D. 64-66, Paul wrote letters to Timothy (1 Tim.), and Titus. Titus was apparently less reserved than Timothy. The precise date of the letter and who bore it to Titus are not known. The immediate occasion of the letter was to tell Titus that Paul had meant to send Artemas and Tychicus to replace him at Crete, and to instruct Titus to come to him at Nicopolis (3:12). The last mention of Titus is (in 2 Timothy 4:10). He had apparently visited Paul in prison in Rome and had departed for Dalmatia, perhaps to start a new work there.
In his short epistle to Titus, Paul wrote directions similar to those he had written in his first letter to Timothy. The difference between the two epistles is one of emphasis. In 1 Timothy, Paul's emphasis is on the leaders of the local church; in Titus, the emphasis is on the organization of the local church.
Like Paul's two letters to Timothy, the apostle gives personal encouragement and counsel to a young pastor who, though well-trained and faithful, faced continuing opposition from ungodly men within the churches where he ministered. Titus was to pass on that encouragement and counsel to the leaders he was to appoint in the Cretan churches (1:5).
In contrast to several of Paul's other letters, such as those to the churches in Rome and Galatia, the book of Titus does not focus on explaining or defending doctrine. Paul had full confidence in Titus' theological understanding and convictions, evidenced by the fact that he entrusted him with such a demanding ministry. Except for the warning about false teachers and Judaizers, the letter gives no theological correction, strongly suggesting that Paul also had confidence in the doctrinal grounding of most church members there, despite the fact that the majority of them were new believers.
Doctrines that this epistle affirms include:
(1) God's sovereign election of believers (1:1-2);
(2) His saving grace (2:11; 3:5);
(3) Christ's deity and second coming (2:13);
(4) Christ's substitutionary atonement (2:14); and
(5) The regeneration and renewing of believers by the Holy Spirit (3:5).
God and Christ are regularly referred to as Savior (1:3-4; 2:10, 13; 3:4, 6), and the saving plan is so emphasized (in 2:11-14), that it indicates the major thrust of the epistle is that of equipping the churches of Crete for effective evangelism. This preparation required godly leaders who not only would shepherd believers under their care (1:5-9), but also would equip those Christians for evangelizing their pagan neighbors, who had been characterized by one of their own famous natives as liars, evil beasts, and lazy gluttons (1:12). In order to gain a hearing for the gospel among such people, the believers' primary preparation for evangelization was to live among themselves with the unarguable testimony of righteous, loving, selfless and godly lives (2:2-14), in marked contrast to the debauched lives of the false teachers (1:10-16). How they behaved with reference to governmental authorities and unbelievers was also crucial to their testimony (3:1-8).
Themes: Several major themes repeat themselves throughout Titus. They include: work(s) (1:16; 2:7, 14; 3:1, 5, 8, 14); soundness in faith and doctrine (1:4, 9, 13; 2:1-2, 7-8, 10; 3:15); and salvation (1:3-4; 2:10, 13; 3:4, 6).
Paul wrote this letter to Titus about the year 63 A.D. Titus was a Gentile who had been saved under Paul' s ministry. It seemed that Paul was very fond of Titus, as he was of Timothy. He thought of Titus as his son in the ministry, because Paul had taught Titus. Titus had gone on several journeys with Paul and even went to Rome with Paul.
Titus went to Jerusalem with Paul, and the Jewish Christians there wanted to circumcise Titus. Paul would not allow them to do this, because it would cause all the Gentile Christians to be of less importance to God.
When there was trouble with a church and Paul could not go himself, he would send Titus. The very next best thing to being there himself would be to send Titus, because Titus had been trained by Paul, and it was as if Paul were ministering.
This, like the book of Timothy, is a personal letter that Paul sent Titus to help him in his ministry.
Verses 1-4: The author, Paul, describes himself as a servant (Greek doulos, slave¯ or bondservant¯) who has no right of his own. An apostle (Greek apostolos), is one sent with a commission. According to the faith of God' s elect means with a view to¯. Hence Paul was made an apostle, in order to call the elect to faith in Christ by preaching the gospel to all men.
This salutation emphasizes the nature of Paul' s service as an apostle of Jesus Christ. He proclaimed:
(1) Salvation: God' s purpose to save the elect by the gospel;
(2) Sanctification: God' s purpose to build up the saved by the Word of God; and
(3) Glorification: God' s purpose to bring believers to eternal glory.
Titus 1:1 Paul, a servant of God, and an apostle of Jesus Christ, according to the faith of God' s elect, and the acknowledging of the truth which is after godliness;¯
Servant¯: Paul pictures himself as the most menial slave of New Testament times, indicating his complete and willing servitude to the Lord, by whom all believers have been bought with a price¯ (1 Col. 6:20; 1 Pet. 1:18-19).
Apostle¯: The word has the basic meaning of messenger or literally sent one¯ and, though often used of royal emissaries who ministered with the extended authority of their sovereign, Paul' s exalted position as an apostle¯, also was an extension of his being a bond servant to God,¯ which came with great authority, responsibility, and sacrifice.
God' s elect¯: Those who have been graciously chosen for salvation before the foundation of the world¯ (Eph. 1:4). But who must exercise personal faith prompted and empowered by the Holy Spirit. God' s choice of believers always precedes and enables their choice of Him (John 15:16; Acts 13:46-48; Rom 9:15-21; 2 Thess. 2:13; 2 Tim. 1:8-9, 2:10; 1 Pet. 1:1-2).
The truth¯: Paul had in mind gospel truth, the saving message of the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ (1 Tim. 2:3-4; 2 Tim. 2:25). It is that saving truth that leads to godliness¯ or sanctification (see 2:11-12).
We have discussed before that the word apostle¯ could be ambassador. An ambassador does not bring his own message, but the message of the person he is representing. We can see from that one word that Paul is bringing to the Gentile world the message of Jesus Christ.
Paul, as much as anyone, was a servant of God. He had dedicated his life to the service of the Lord. The purpose of the message Paul was bringing, was to stir up faith in Jesus Christ in those elected of God to receive the Truth. Of course, God elected all mankind who will, to receive the Word of God. The Word of God teaches godliness.
Titus 1:2 In hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began;¯
Hope¯: This is divinely promised and divinely guaranteed to all believers, providing endurance and patience (John 6:37-40; Rom. 8:18-23; 1 Cor. 15:51-58; Eph. 1:13-14; Phil. 3:8:11, 20-21; 1 Thess. 4:13-18; 1 John 3:2-3).
Cannot lie¯ (1 Sam. 15:29; Heb. 6:18). Because God Himself is truth and the source of truth, it is impossible for Him to say anything untruthful (John 14:6, 17; 15:26; Num. 23:19; Psalm 146:6).
Before the world began¯: God' s plan of salvation for sinful mankind was determined and decreed before man was even created. The promise was made to God the Son. (Eph. 1:4-5; 2 Tim. 1:9).
The hope of every Christian is the resurrection to eternal life in Jesus. The plan of salvation was from before the world began.
2 Timothy 1:9 Who hath saved us, and called with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began,¯
This does not remove the free will of each individual to decide to be saved and follow Jesus. God' s foreknowledge allowed Him to know who would be saved. That is how he knew and wrote the names in the book. This plan was not just the Father' s, but God the Word' s, and the Holy Spirit' s, from the beginning.
The Word of God was to take on the form of flesh, become Jesus, and save His people. He was the one to save us, since He was our Creator.
Hebrews 6:18 That by two immutable things, in which impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us:¯
Titus 1:3 But hath in due times manifested his word through preaching, which is committed unto me according to the commandment of God our Savior;¯
His word ¦ preaching¯: God' s Word is the sole source of content for all faithful preaching and teaching (1 Cor. 1:18-21; 9:16-17; Gal 1:15-16; Col. 1:25).
God our Savior¯ (2:10; 3:4). The plan of salvation originated in eternity past with God.
Manifested¯ means made real. Then we see that God chose to make His Word real by preaching. We are told over and over in the Scriptures, preach the Word. Paul was a mouth piece for God. That is exactly what Paul was called to do, when he met Jesus on the road to Damascus.
1 Corinthians 1:18 For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God.¯
1 Corinthians 1:21 For after that in the wisdom of God the world by wisdom knew not God, it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe.¯
God our Savior¯ is of course speaking of Jesus Christ.
Titus 1:4 To Titus, own son after the common faith: Grace, mercy, peace, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ our Savior.¯
Own son¯: A spiritual son, a genuine believer in Christ, like Timothy (1 Tim. 1-2).
Common faith¯: This may refer to saving faith or to the content of the Cristian faith, e.g., The faith which was once for all handed down to the saints¯ (Jude 3).
Our Savior¯: Christ is called Savior each time He is mentioned after verse 1 (2:13; 3:6).
Titus had been saved by Paul' s preaching, and that is why Paul speaks of him as his son in this Scripture. Some believe that Titus was saved about 14 years after Paul was saved on the road to Damascus. This possibly happened at Antioch.
Paul was not married and had no natural sons. This blessing that he speaks on Titus is from Paul, and Jesus, and the Father. He adds Savior to Jesus showing that He is what brings us not only salvation, but grace, mercy and peace.
Verses 5-9: God' s standards for all believers are high; His requirement for church leaders is to set that standard and model it. Such leaders are not qualified on the basis of natural ability, intelligence or education. But on the basis of moral and spiritual character and the ability to teach with skill as the Spirit sovereignly has equipped them.
Titus is to set in order the church. The church had been established but needed to be organized to function effectively.
Ordain elders in every city¯: Elders (Greek presbuteroi), were to be appointed in every city to rule and teach in the churches. The qualifications listed here are similar to those (in 1 Timothy 3).
Blameless¯ means without blame or rebuke. It does not mean sinless. Husband of one wife (literally a one-woman man¯): This may preclude those who are divorced and certainly any who are polygamous.
Bishop¯ (Greek episkopos, literally overseer¯), shows that the elders mentioned (in verse 5), are also called the steward of God, meaning God' s household servant.
No striker¯ means not a brawler or fighter.
Not given to filthy lucre¯ means not greedy of financial gain.
Titus 1:5 For this cause left I thee in Crete, that thou shouldest set in order the things that are wanting, and ordain elders in every city, as I had appointed thee:¯
Set in order¯: Titus was to correct wrong doctrine and practices in the Cretan churches, a task that Paul had been unable to complete. This ministry is mentioned nowhere else.
Elders¯: Similar qualifications are (in 1 Tim. 3:1-7). Mature spiritual leaders of the church, also known as bishops or overseers (verse 7; 1 Tim. 3:2), and pastor (literally shepherds; see Eph. 4:11), were to care for each city' s congregation (see also Acts 20:17, 28; 1 Peter 5:1-2). This ministry of appointing leaders is consistently Pauline (Acts 14:23).
Appointed thee¯: A reminder of past apostolic instructions.
Crete¯ is the large island southeast of Greece in the southern portion of the Aegean Sea. It is 156 miles long and ranges in width from 7 to 35 miles. In ancient times two great civilizations existed on Crete: the Minoan, involving the semi-mythical King Minos, and later the Mycenaean. Then, after a one thousand year period of decline it was conquered by the Romans in 67 B.C.
Crete enters into New Testament history three times. First, on the Day of Pentecost. Jews from Crete were in Jerusalem witnessing the notable events. Second, when Paul was being sent he visited Crete and left Titus to establish the churches (verse 5).
Paul had every confidence in Titus. He knew Titus would do everything the way he would do it, if he were there. It seems that Paul had left Titus the task of establishing the churches in this area. Paul had so much faith in Titus, that he left it up to Titus to choose someone in each church to be the elder.
An elder¯ is the spiritual advisor of the church. It is the job of the elder to make sure that the church is kept spiritually sound in its doctrine. We will see in the next few verses, that Paul gave Titus some guidelines to use in choosing these leaders.
Titus 1:6 If any be blameless, the husband of one wife, having faithful children not accused of riot or unruly.¯
Blameless¯: This word does not refer to sinless perfection but to a personal life that is beyond legitimate accusation and public scandal. It is a general and primary requirement of spiritual leaders that is repeated (verse 7), and explained in the next verse (1 Tim. 3:2, 10).
Husband of one wife¯: Literally a one-woman man.¯ I.e., a husband who is consistently, both inwardly and outwardly, devoted and faithful to his wife (1 Tim. 3:2). An otherwise qualified single man is not necessarily disqualified. This is not speaking of divorce, but of internal and external purity in the sexual area (see Prov. 6:32-33).
This necessity was motivation for Paul' s commitment to control his body (1 Cor. 9:27).
Faithful children¯: This refers to children who have saving faith in Christ and reflect it in their conduct. Since (1 Tim. 3:4), requires children to be in submission, it may be directed at young children in the home, while this text looks at those who are older.
Not accused of riot or unruly¯: Riot¯ connotes debauchery, suggesting, again, that the reference is to grown children. Unruly¯ carries the idea of rebelliousness to the gospel. Here the elder shows his ability to lead his family to salvation and sanctification (see 1 Tim. 3:4-5), an essential prerequisite for leading the church.
Blameless means that there is nothing he has done that anyone in the community will blame him for. He does not even give the appearance of evil. His marriage is solid; he is not jumping from one wife to the other. His children are Christians, as well as he is. The children are not a problem to the community as well.
Titus 1:7 For a bishop must be blameless, as the steward of God; not self-willed, not soon angry, not given to wine, no striker, not given to filthy lucre;¯
Bishop or Overseer¯. This is not a hierarchical title, but a word meaning elder¯ or bishop¯ (Acts 20:28; Heb. 13:17; 1 Peter 5:2).
The bishop is like the superintendent of the church, it means in general charge of the church. We might even call him chairman of the board today.
Steward¯: The term refers to one who manages someone else' s properties for the well-being of those his master cares for. In this context, one who manages spiritual truth, lives on God' s behalf, and is wholly accountable to Him. The church is God' s (Acts 20:28; 1 Tim. 3:15; 1 Peter 5:24), and elders or overseers are accountable to Him for the way they lead it (Heb. 13:17).
Wine¯: Applies to drinking any alcoholic beverage in any way that dulls the mind or subdues inhibitions (Prov. 23:29-35; 31:4-7). By application, it also indicts any other substance, e.g., drugs, which would cloud the mind.
Filthy lucre¯: Even in the early church, some men became pastors in order to gain wealth (see verse 11; 1 Pet. 5:2; 2 Peter 2:1-3).
It appears to me; the description of this person is showing a man who is completely sold out to the Lord. He is Christ-like. He is an easy-going person who loves other people. He has his will under control at all times, because he does not take drugs or alcohol. He is not greedy for wealth.
Titus 1:8 But a lover of hospitality, a lover of good men, sober, just, holy, temperate;¯
Hospitality¯: The word actually means a lover of strangers.¯ Most men who truly love other people are hospitable. This describes a man who loves good, whether in man or in the good things of life.
Sober¯: Serious with the right priorities. Sober is the reverse of riotous. This man is not living in sin. He is living in Jesus who has overcome sin, thus holy.
Temperate means master of one' s self. This is a perfect description of someone who has his flesh under the control of his spirit.
Titus 1:9 Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers.¯
Faithful word¯: Sound biblical doctrine not only should be taught but also adhered to with deep conviction (1 Tim. 4:6; 5:17; 2 Tim. 2:15; 3:16; 4:2-4).
The power of Christianity is in the Word of God (Jesus). The faithful Word would be the true Word of God. Holding fast, would mean that he had stored the Word of God down deep in his heart. The only way to be an effective soul winner, is to have the Word of God totally imbedded into your own heart to the extent that when you open your mouth, the Word of God comes forth.
Exhort ¦convince¯: The faithful teaching and defending of Scripture which encourages godliness and confronts sin and error (those who contradict).
Gainsayers¯, are disputers. The Truth will convince the worst of the disputers, if it is brought forth faithfully long enough.
Verses 10-16: The false teachers in the Cretan churches were much like those with whom Timothy had to deal in Ephesus (see 1 Tim. 3:7; Romans 16:17-18; 2 Pet. 2:1-3).
Titus 1:10 For there are many unruly and vain talkers and deceivers, specially they of the circumcision:¯
Many unruly¯: Because those men were so numerous, Titus' job was especially difficult which made the appointment of additional godly elders (verse 5), all the more crucial. Some of the false teachers may have opposed even Paul' s apostolic authority during his brief ministry on Crete.
The circumcision¯: These were Jews who taught that salvation required the physical cutting of circumcision and adherence to Mosaic ceremonies (Acts 15:1-12; Gal. 3:1-12; Eph. 2:11-12; Col. 2:11-12).
The problem with these people is that they had not left their Jewish teaching behind, when they came to Christ. Law and grace are like oil and water, they cannot mix. The circumcision leaves no doubt that they are speaking of the Jews. The Jewish converts were the most difficult for Paul to get to conform to the teachings of Christianity.
Titus 1:11 Whose mouths must be stopped, who subvert whole houses, teaching things which they ought not, for filthy lucre' s sake.¯
Whole houses¯ (see 2 Tim. 3:6).
Filthy lucre' s sake¯: False teachers are always in it for the money (1 Tim. 6:5; 1 Peter 5:2).
Filthy lucre¯ is dirty money. At the time this was written many people sold all their worldly belongings and had things common. Perhaps, this is speaking of wanting to be in control of the wealth that was generated from those sales.
They were bringing another message other than what Paul had brought, and were even getting whole families to break away to their false teaching. Most of this had to do, however, with conforming to the Jew' s customs.
Titus 1:12 One of themselves, a prophet of their own, said, The Cretians always liars, evil beasts, slow bellies.¯:
A prophet¯: Epimenides, the highly esteemed sixth century B.C. Greek poet and native of Crete, had characterized his own people as the dregs of Greek culture. Elsewhere, Paul also quoted pagan sayings (Acts 17:28; 1 Cor. 15:33). This quote is directed at the false teachers' character.
They did not have a very high opinion of the members of the church. The Jews had always thought themselves better than the Gentiles, and it seemed they were bringing in a distinction here. It seems the Cretians had a reputation of being liars.
Evil beasts¯ means they were a cruel, brutal people. The slow bellies¯ mean that they were gluttons.
Verses 13-14: Paul instructs Titus to perform a task of reproof. He is to rebuke them sharply. Jewish fables refer to Jewish myths, that is, legalistic error (1 Tim. 4:1-5).
Titus 1:13 This witness is true. Wherefore rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith;¯
Sound in the faith' : True and pure doctrine was to be required of all who spoke to the church. Any who fell short of that were to be rebuked.
Paul is saying, the accusations are true, but when they become a Christian, they must change. Titus must tell them of the new birth in Christ. They must bury that lying, brutal, glutton, and become a new creature in Christ.
Titus has a hard job ahead, breaking customs of many years. They must totally change. They must be solidly planted in the faith in Jesus Christ. There must be such a change that the whole world can see.
Titus 1:14 Not giving heed to Jewish fables, and commandments of men, that turn from the truth.¯
Jewish fables and commandments of men¯: Paul reemphasized (see verse 10). Those of the circumcision¯, that most of the false teachers were Jewish. They taught the same kind of externalism and unscriptural laws and traditions that both Isaiah and Jesus railed against (Isa.29:13; Matt. 15:1-9; Mark 7:5-13).
The worst thing a person can do is to listen to something, thinking it will not hurt them. You retain some of the things you intend not to believe. It is best not to listen at all. We discussed that the Jewish fables, spoken of here, are the things like circumcision.
The continuing to sacrifice after Jesus made the one sacrifice for all time for everyone, is like saying His sacrifice was not sufficient.
I believe God allowed the temple in Jerusalem to be destroyed in 70 A.D., to stop the people from continuing to sacrifice. The laws, commandments, and regulations were all fulfilled in Jesus Christ. It is almost blasphemy to continue with that, because it defames Jesus.
Verses 15-16: False teachers are corrupt on the inside ( mind¯ and conscience¯), and the outside ( deeds and disobedient¯; Matthew 7:15-16).
Titus 1:15 Unto the pure all things pure: but unto them that are defiled and unbelieving nothing pure; but even their mind and conscience is defiled.¯
Defiled¯: The outwardly despicable things that those men practiced (verses 10-12), were simply reflections of their inner corruption (see Matt. 15:15-20).
Mind ¦ conscience¯: If the mind is defiled, it cannot accurately inform the conscience, so conscience cannot warn the person. When conscience is accurately and fully infused with God' s truth, it functions as the warning system God designed. (2 Cor. 1:12; 4:2; 1 Tim. 1:19-20).
Jesus (the Supreme Sacrifice), made all Christians free from sin. He abolished sin in our lives.
Mark 7:15 There is nothing from without a man, that entering into him can defile him: but the things which come out of him, those are they that defile the man.¯
The Jews were caught up in formality of religion. They washed thoroughly before they ate, as if it were a practice of religion. The things you think are dirty are dirty.
Romans 14:17 For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.¯
It is the precious blood of Jesus Christ that clears the conscience of man. We cannot do enough in our self to be right with God. We must depend entirely on the shed blood of Jesus making us right in God' s sight.
Titus 1:16 They profess that they know God; but in works they deny , being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate.¯
Profess ¦ deny¯: Some of the false teachers in the church were not believers at all. Eventually, even the seemingly noble deeds¯ of unbelievers will betray them.
Abominable¯: They can do nothing that pleases God (1 Cor. 9:27; 2 Tim. 3:8).
You can say all day long that you are a Christian, but I will not believe you until I see Christ living in you. We see in the following Scripture a Truth about this very thing.
1 Peter 4:2 That he no longer should live the rest of time in the flesh to the lusts of men, but to the will of God.¯
Not everyone who says he is a Christian is a Christian. The life we live shows the world, if we are truly living for Christ, or not. If we are practicing sin, we are of our father the devil. If we are living the Christian life with signs following, we are of our heavenly Father.
Galatians 2:20 I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.¯
Titus Chapter 1 Questions
Verses 1-5¯: The aged men are elderly men, not necessarily those who hold the office of elder.
They are to be sober (sensible), grave (dignified), temperate (prudent and thoughtful), sound (healthy), in faith (literally the faith¯), in charity (that is, love), in patience (or perseverance). Thus the aged men are to be examples of godliness to the younger men.
The aged women, older women, are to be in behavior (demeanor), as becometh holiness. They must thus be teachers of good things by teaching the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, and to love their children. The older women are to teach the younger by their example.
Discreet¯ means modest and decent.
Chaste¯ is sexually pure.
Keepers at home¯ means workers at home, not idle.
Obedient to their own husbands¯ means being submissive to their own husbands.
Sound doctrine for older men (verse 2), older women (verse 3), younger women (verses 4-5), young men (verses 6-8), and bondslaves (verses 9-10), reflects the duty of everyone in the church.
Titus 2:1 But speak thou the things which become sound doctrine:¯
Sound¯: meaning healthy. Paul uses this word 9 times in the pastoral epistles (5 times in Titus), always in the sense that the truth produces spiritual well-being.
The things¯ Paul mentions (in verses 2-10), pertain to truths, attitudes and actions that correspond to and are based on biblical truth. In order, not only to please God, but also to have an effective witness to unbelievers, God' s people must know the truth that leads to spiritual health.
It is easy to see from this, that Paul is writing this letter to Titus to help him in deciding how to establish a doctrine for the churches he is starting. Speak, here, means Titus is to speak to the people as if he were Paul and establish the church on the doctrine Paul has written to him.
Titus 2:2 That the aged men be sober, grave, temperate, sound in faith, in charity, in patience.¯
Aged men¯: Paul uses this term for himself (Philemon 9), when he was over 60. It refers to those of advanced age, using a different term for the one translated elders¯ in (1:5).
Grave¯: This requirement is not limited to reverence for God, which is assumed, but also refers to being honorable They are to be sensible and spiritually healthy.
This has jumped from the leaders of the church to the conduct of the members. It is very similar to that of the leaders. Faith, hope, and charity are mentioned many times as being a part of the Christian' s character and attitude. This is not a passive mention of this in this verse.
The verb be¯ shows that the person who is to be these things have a choice in this matter. Older Christian men should have all of these characteristics.
Titus 2:3 The aged women likewise, that in behavior as becometh holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things;¯
Aged women¯: Those who no longer had child-rearing responsibilities, typically around age 60 (1 Tim. 5:3-10).
Not false accusers¯: A term used 34 times in the New Testament to describe Satan, the arch-slanderer.
Good things¯: Those things that please God (1:16), particularly the lessons (in verses 4-5).
We see in this, that the older women are to be an example of holiness in the church, at home and in the community. The teachers of good things can mean not only the Word of God, but could also teach by the type of holy upright life that they live before others.
They should not be heavy drinkers. There is something special about the relationship the mother, or grandmother, has with her family. The standards she sets in her own life usually become the standards of the whole family. This is the reason it is so important for her to live a holy life.
Many prominent men in God' s work were taught by their mothers. Timothy is a good Biblical example.
Titus 2:4 That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children,¯
Man, builds a house, and woman makes the home. Man, is the head of the house, but the mother is the heart. Someone said once that she was the neck that turns the head. I would not say that, but the woman seems to set the atmosphere for a happy, or a troubled home. Generally speaking, it' s the mother who insists on prayers at meals and regular attendance in church for the family.
If you did not love your husband, you would be not loving yourself, since you two are one. Women and men have their own special roles in the family. We would be much happier, if we would make Jesus Christ the center of our marriage, and then let Him direct us to our own special role in the family.
It is a natural thing for a woman to love her husband and her children. Teach all of your family how to love by loving them first.
Titus 2:5 discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed.¯
Keepers at home¯ (1 Timothy 5:14). Keeping a godly home with excellence for one' s husband and children is the Christian woman' s non-negotiable responsibility.
Obedient to¯: The ideas of radical feminism were an integral part of ancient Babylonian and Assyrian mythology as well as of Greek Gnosticism, which flourished throughout the Roman Empire during New Testament times and posed a constant danger to the early church. Modern feminism is neither new nor progressive; it is age-old and regressive.
Be not blasphemed¯: This is the purpose of godly conduct, to eliminate any reproach on Scripture. For a person to be convinced God can save from sin, one needs to see someone who lives a holy life.
When Christians claim to believe God' s Word, but do not obey it, the Word is dishonored. Many have mocked God and His truth because of the sinful behavior of those who claim to be Christians (Matt. 5:16; 1 Peter 2:9).
Whatever lifestyle we have, if we are Christians, we must be discreet; (self-controlled). Jesus is coming back for a chaste virgin to be His bride. This is speaking of the church of the Lord Jesus Christ (both male and female). A woman is the one who makes the home from the house the husband has provided.
(Proverbs 31:10 on), describes the woman who is the wife, more precious than rubies. It speaks of women working outside of the home when it is necessary to help her husband. A woman and a man who are married must decide what the needs of their own family are and how to best attain that goal.
We are one, so the decision to work out or not to work out should be of mutual agreement. Women should have great respect for their own husbands, and do whatever she can to please him, if it is morally right to do what he wishes.
She is to be his helpmeet in the truest sense of the word. Any Christian, male or female, who does not live the things they have been taught of God, in a sense, blasphemes God, because it is as if he is saying God' s Word is untrue.
Titus 2:6 Young men likewise exhort to be sober minded.¯
Young men¯: Males, 12 and older.
Titus 2:7 In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity,¯
In all things¯: This rightly goes at the end of verse 6, qualifying your men and emphasizing the comprehensiveness of this admonition.
Pattern¯: Titus had a special obligation to exemplify the moral and spiritual qualities about which he was to admonish others (1 Co. 4:16; 11:1; Phil. 3:17; 2 Thess. 3:8-0; 1 Tim. 4:12; Heb. 13:7).
Temptations, or lusts of the flesh, are greater for young men than for old men. This is probably why Paul separated them out for instructions. Paul is stressing to Titus, the importance of a strong belief in the teachings of God which will guide them into living a life that is a pattern for others to live by.
The energy of the young man is great at this point, but his work must reveal his belief in God. His walk must match up with the faith he professes. Good works show the world that you are living for God. The young man must stay faithful to God to not be influenced with the sin of the world.
Paul says for Titus to get the young men involved in the work. Let their works match their doctrines, keep them busy doing good things.
Titus 2:8 Sound speech, that cannot be condemned; that he that is of the contrary part may be ashamed, having no evil thing to say of you.¯
Sound speech¯: Daily conversation (Eph. 4:31; Col. 3:16-17; 4:6).
Having no evil thing to say¯: Again (as in verse 5), the purpose of godly living is to silence the opponents of Christianity and the gospel and make the power of Christ believable.
The speech of the man reveals what is in his heart. Pure words come from a pure heart, and there is no condemnation for that. The doctrine of him must be sound, and his speech must reveal the doctrine. Those who use bad language are ashamed around those who use clean wholesome language.
Verses 9-10¯: Servants¯ (Greek doulos, slaves¯), are to be obedient unto their own masters. The servant who does this will adorn the doctrine of God our Savior in all things. This passage is not meant to condone slavery but to show how godliness can overcome tyranny. The slave who did his job well was a testimony to the grace of God and the power of the gospel.
Titus 2:9 servants to be obedient unto their own masters, to please well in all ; not answering again;¯
Servants¯: The term applies generally to all employees, but direct reference is to slave, men, women and children who, in the Roman Empire and in much of the ancient world, were owned by their masters. They had few, if any, civil rights and often were accorded little more dignity or care than domestic animals.
The New Testament nowhere condones or condemns the practice of slavery, but it everywhere teaches that freedom from the bondage of sin is infinitely more important than freedom from any human bondage a person may have to endure (see Rom. 6:22).
Obedient unto ¦ masters ¦ please them well¯: Paul clearly teaches that, even in the most servile of circumstances, believers are to be subject¯, and seek to please those for whom they work. Whether their masters¯ are believers or unbelievers, fair or unfair, kind or cruel.
How much more obligated are believers to respect and obey employers for whom they work voluntarily! As with wives' obedience to their husbands (verse 5), the only exception would involve a believer' s being required to disobey God' s Word (Eph. 6:5-9; Colossians 3:22 " 4:1; and 1 Tim. 6:1-2).
In our modern times, we would be speaking of those laborers who are working for the boss. Even the fact that you do your job well without complaining, is a witness to the Christ that lives in you.
When you work for anyone, you should do it as unto the Lord, and then it will be done right with no complaining. The fact that you don' t complain will witness to your boss. Who knows, you might be the servant that wins the boss to the Lord.
Titus 2:10 Not purloining, but showing all good fidelity; that they may adorn the doctrine of God our Savior in all things.¯
Purloining¯, has to do with embezzling or holding back. This is speaking of someone who is not honest with his boss. This would be like taking the tools that belong to the boss home and just not bringing them back. That would be a very bad witness.
You can even embezzle from your boss without taking anything material. The fact that you do not work a full 8 hours for an 8-hour work day, is stealing from him. That is his time. He bought it when he hired you. Give a full day' s work for a full day' s pay, and you will be witnessing for Christ in the doing.
Adorn¯ means to put on. Notice, if you are a good employee, you may cause your boss to put on the doctrine of God our Savior. You may be the reason he is saved. Paul stresses that the supreme purpose of a virtuous life is to make attractive the teaching that God saves sinners.
Verses 11-15¯: The salvation that appeared to all men is based on God' s grace that has provided salvation universally for all mankind through the unlimited atonement of Christ. That blessed hope and glorious appearing of the great God and our Savior Jesus Christ refers to His second coming.
The use of the definite article the¯ with the first noun God¯ and the connecting and¯, indicates that the first and second Savior¯ (nouns), are one and the same person. Our great God and our Savior Jesus Christ¯, is thus one and the same person, clearly proving the deity of Christ.
Verses 11-13: This is the heart of the letter, emphasizing that God' s sovereign purpose in calling out elders (1:5). And in commanding His people to live righteously (verses 1-10), is to provide the witness that brings God' s plan and purpose of salvation to fulfillment.
Paul condensed the saving plan of God into 3 realities:
(1) Salvation from the penalty (verse 11);
(2) The power (verse 12); and
(3) The presence (verse 13), of sin.
Titus 2:11 For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men,¯
Grace of God¯: Not simply the divine attribute of grace, but Jesus Christ Himself, grace incarnate. God' s supremely gracious gift to fallen mankind (John 1:14).
By grace are ye saved. We do not work to get salvation. We may however, work because we have it. Salvation by grace is offered to all mankind. It comes before us sometime in our life. We accept it, or reject it.
All men¯: This does not teach universal salvation. Mankind¯ (3:4), refers to humanity in general, as a category, not to every individual (2 Cor. 5:19; 2 Peter 3:9). Jesus Christ made a sufficient sacrifice to cover every sin of every one who believes (John 3:16-18; 2 Tim. 2:5-6; 4:10; 1 John 2:2).
Paul makes clear in the opening words of this letter to Titus that salvation becomes effective only through the faith of those chosen of God¯ (1:1). Out of all humanity, only those who believe will be saved (John 1:12; 3:16; 5:24, 38, 40; 6:40; 10:9; Rom. 10:9-17).
Titus 2:12 Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world;¯
Denying ¦ live¯: Salvation is transforming (2 Cor. 5:17; Eph. 2:8-10), and transformation (new birth), produces a new life in which the power of sin has been broken (Rom. 6:4-14; Phil. 3:8-9; Col. 3:9-10).
The leader of the church must teach the congregation the proper way to conduct holy lives. It is the decision of everyone to live the good life. The teacher can tell us what is right, but it is up to us to act upon that teaching. I have said this over and over, but to remain a Christian in the truest sense, we must crucify the flesh and the lust of the flesh, and allow the spirit to rule.
The flesh of man is the enemy of his spirit. There is a battle taking place continually. The spirit must win the will of man for him to be a true Christian. It is spoken of as death of the flesh and life in the spirit.
Galatians 5:16 I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.¯
Titus 2:13 Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Savior Jesus Christ;¯
Blessed hope¯: A general reference to the second coming of Jesus Christ, including the resurrection (Rom. 8:22-23; 1 Cor. 15:51-58; Phil. 3:20-21; 1 Thess. 4:13-18; 1 John 3:2-3), and the reign of the saints with Christ in glory (2 Tim. 2:10).
Glorious appearing¯ (2 Timothy 1:10). This will be our salvation from the presence of sin.
God and our Savior¯ A clear reference to the deity of Jesus (2 Peter 1:1).
The blessed hope is of the resurrection to eternal life. This could be also, speaking of the looking forward to the coming of Christ. He is coming for those who are looking for Him. The appearing of the Lord Jesus¯, will be when He comes to take His children home. You can read a great deal about this (in 1 Thessalonians chapter 4).
Titus 2:14 Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.¯
Redeem ¦ purify¯: Another expression (verse 12), summarizes the dual effect of salvation (regeneration and sanctification). To redeem¯ is to release someone held captive, on the payment of a ransom. The price was Christ' s blood paid to satisfy God' s justice (Acts 20:28; Gal. 1:4; 2:20; 1 Peter 1:18; Mark 10:45).
A peculiar people¯: People who are special by virtue of God' s decree and confirmed by the grace of salvation which they have embraced (see notes on 1:14; 1 Cor. 6:19-20; 1 Peter 2:9).
Sin, or iniquity, died on the cross. Jesus took our sin upon His body, and sin died on the cross. He purified us with His precious blood. He clothed us with His righteousness. The peculiar people, Christians, became the property of the Lord Jesus. He bought us with His blood. He paid the price for us to be adopted into the family of God.
The signs that follow God' s people are good works. We are fruit bearers. We produce other members for God' s family through our testimony and our good works. It is not an obligation to do good works, but a privilege.
Titus 2:15 These things speak, and exhort, and rebuke with all authority. Let no man despise thee.¯
Speak ¦ exhort ¦ rebuke¯: These 3 verbs identify the need for proclamation, application, and correction by the Word.
Authority¯: Authority¯ to command people in the spiritual realm comes only from God' s Word (Matthew 7:28-29).
Let no man despise thee¯ (see 3:9-11). Rebellion against the truth must be dealt with (Matthew 18:15-20; 1 Cor. 5:9-13; 2 Thess. 3:14-15).
Paul is expressing to Titus the warning to not let anyone discourage him, by questioning his authority. Paul in a sense is saying, preach the gospel in all Truth, and they will have to respect you. Titus must live what he preaches to win the respect of the hearers.
Titus Chapter 2 Questions
Verses 1-11¯: In his closing remarks, Paul admonished Titus to remind believers under his care of their attitudes toward:
(1) The unsaved rulers (verse 1), and people in general (verse 2);
(2) Their previous state as unbelievers lost in sin (verse 3);
(3) Of their gracious salvation through Jesus Christ (verses 4-7);
(4) Of their righteous testimony to the unsaved world (verse 8);
(5) And of their responsibility to oppose false teachers and factious members within the church (verses 9-11).
All of these matters are essential to effective evangelism.
Speak evil of no man literally means blaspheme no one.
Be no brawlers (literally, abstain from fighting¯). Unto all men indicates the universal extent of the Christian mission.
Salvation is not accomplished by works of righteousness, but by the washing of regeneration. That is, the cleansing that results from being born again (John 3:3). This is not a reference to baptism but to the spiritual renewing produced by the Holy Ghost (see Ezekiel 36:25-26). Consequently, we are justified by his grace and will be made heirs because we have the hope (strong confidence), of eternal life.
Titus 3:1 Put them in mind to be subject to principalities and powers, to obey magistrates, to be ready to every good work,¯
Subject¯: Submission to the authority of Scripture demands submission to human authorities as part of a Christian' s testimony (Rom. 13:1-7; 1 Pet. 2:12-17).
We have discussed before how God makes a person to be king, or president, or in fact, governors or lesser offices, for His purpose. To go against the ruling government, would be saying that you cannot trust God' s judgment.
The way to go up against them is at the voting booth. The only time we should go against the government is, if what they ask you to do is against your belief in God. It is best to keep the laws of the land and live peaceable lives.
Titus 3:2 To speak evil of no man, to be no brawlers, gentle, showing all meekness unto all men.¯
All men¯: Christians are to exemplify these godly virtues in their dealings with everyone. The admonition applies especially to dealings with unbelievers. The use of this phrase here to refer to mankind in general (particularly those who cross our paths). Rather than every person who lives, supports the fact that it has the same meaning (in 2:11).
We should not even speak evil against our enemy. We are not to create trouble for ourselves, or anyone else. We are to be peacemakers. The meekness above, is really speaking of being humble.
The worldly man tends to talk about others, thinking it will make him look better, but Christians should do the opposite and build others up.
Titus 3:3 For we ourselves also were sometimes foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving divers lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, hating one another.¯
Ourselves¯: It is not that every believer has committed every sin listed here, but rather that before salvation every life is characterized by such sins. That sobering truth should make believers humble in dealing with the unsaved, even those who are grossly immoral and ungodly.
If it weren' t for God' s grace to His own, they would all be wicked (1 Pet. 3:15; 2 Tim. 2:25). For other lists of sins (see Romans 1:18-32; 1 Cor. 6:9-10; Gal. 5:19-21; Eph. 4:17-19).
This is a perfect description of all of us, before we came to Jesus. This is the way of the world, or the way of the flesh. Selfish, unsaved people do all the things above, because they are listening to the lust of their flesh. Until we receive the pattern of the perfect love of Jesus, we do not know how to love.
I love the answer Jesus gave when the disciples asked Him; what were the most important commandments. The following is the answer He gave them.
Mark 12:30-31 And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this the first commandment.¯ And the second like, this, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these.¯
Hate is of the world, love is of God.
Titus 3:4 But after that the kindness and love of God our Savior toward man appeared,¯
Kindness ¦ appeared¯ (as in 2:11). Paul is speaking of Jesus Christ, who was kindness and love incarnate, appearing in human form (Ephesians 2:4-6).
A companion Scripture to this is;
John 3:16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.¯
While we were yet in sin, Christ gave Himself to save us;
1 Timothy 4:10 For therefore we both labor and suffer reproach, because we trust in the living God, who is the Savior of all men, specially of those that believe.¯
The kindness and love of God our Savior toward men, is caught up in one word, grace. Grace¯ is unmerited favor from God to man.
Ephesians 2:4-5 But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us,¯ Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;)¯
Titus 3:5 Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;¯
Not by works of righteousness¯: Salvation has never been by deeds, or works (see Eph. 2:8-9; Rom. 3:19-28).
According to his mercy¯: (Eph. 2:4; 1 Tim. 1:13; 1 Peter 1:3, 2:10).
Washing of regeneration¯ (see notes on Ezek. 36:25-31; Eph. 5:26-27; James 1:18; 1 Pet. 1:23). Salvation brings divine cleansing from sin and the gift of a new, Spirit generated, Spirit-empowered, and Spirit-protected life as God' s own children and heirs (verse 7). This is the new birth (John 3:5; 1 John 2:29; 3:9; 4:7; 5:1).
Regeneration¯ refers to the work of the Holy Spirit in the salvation experience that produces new life in the believer. To express this concept, Jesus used the expression born again¯ in His conversation with Nicodemus (John 3:3-7).
Regeneration is the work of God through the Holy Spirit, of placing in one who has faith a new nature, capable of doing God' s will.
Renewing of the Holy Ghost¯ (Romans 8:2). He is the agent of the washing of regeneration.¯
The Holy Spirit is the agent of divine workman of this regeneration. His instrument is the bible which is likened to a hammer that judges sin (Jer. 23:29); a mirror that reveals sin (James 1:23), a sword that defeats Satan (Heb. 4:12), and a lamp that guides the believers (Psalm 119:105).
People are instantaneously born again,¯ the moment they trust Christ as Savior (1 Peter 1:23). Christians should be careful to cooperate with God in growing as children of God after they are regenerated, or given new life.
Our own righteousness is but filthy rags. We could work forever and the work would not make us righteous. We are righteous in God' s sight, because we are dressed in white robes washed in the blood of the Lamb of God. We have been clothed in the righteousness of Christ. We are acceptable to God, because Jesus made us acceptable, not by any work we do.
Revelation 7:13-14 And one of the elders answered, saying unto me, What are these which are arrayed in white robes? and whence came they?¯ And I said unto him, Sir, thou knowest. And he said to me, These are they which came out of great tribulation, and have washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.¯
Another type of washing that this could mean, is the washing of regeneration mentioned in the following Scripture.
Ephesians 5:26 That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word,¯
Titus 3:6 Which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Savior;¯
Abundantly¯: When believers are saved, Christ' s Spirit blesses them beyond measure (Acts 2:38-39; 1 Cor. 12:7, 11, 13; Eph. 3:20; 5:18).
We Christians, are born again in Jesus Christ. We die to the flesh, and are quickened in our spirit by the Lord Jesus Christ. We know that Jesus promised the Comforter would come. The Comforter did come. He is the Holy Ghost. He empowers us in our spirit to minister.
Titus 3:7 That being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life.¯
Justified¯: The central truth of salvation is justification by faith alone. When a sinner repents and places his faith in Jesus Christ, God declares him just, imputes the righteousness of Christ to him, and gives him eternal life by virtue of the substitutionary death of Christ as the penalty for that sinner' s iniquity (Romans 3:21 " 5:21; Gal. 3:6-22; Phil. 3:8-9).
Heirs¯: As adopted children of God through faith in Jesus Christ, believers become heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ¯ (Rom. 8:17; 1 Pet. 1:3-4).
Because He shed His grace on us, we are justified (just as if we had never sinned).
Galatians 3:29 And if ye Christ' s, then are ye Abraham' s seed, and heirs according to the promise.¯
1 Peter 3:7 Likewise, ye husbands, dwell with according to knowledge, giving honor unto the wife, as unto the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life; that your prayers be not hindered.¯
All who are justified by Jesus will inherit life eternal and be sons of God.
1 John 3:1 Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not.¯
Titus 3:8 a faithful saying, and these things I will that thou affirm constantly, that they which have believed in God might be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable unto men.¯
Faithful saying¯: A common expression in the early church, used 5 times in the Pastoral Epistles (1 Tim. 1:15; 3:1; 4:9: 2 Tim. 2:11), is in general, referring to those who respond by the holy witness to the gospel.
This is just simply saying we must walk in the salvation we have received of God. Paul is telling Titus to keep reminding his people to be working, until Jesus comes. This is not only profitable to God but to man, as well.
Titus 3:9 But avoid foolish questions, and genealogies, and contentions, and strivings about the law; for they are unprofitable and vain.¯
Foolish questions¯: Paul again warns against becoming embroiled in senseless discussions with the many false teachers on Crete (see 1:10, 14-16), especially the Judaizers who contended that a Christian must be obedient to the Mosaic Law,¯ a view that assaulted the doctrine of justification by grace through faith alone and, contrary to holy living, which was good and profitable, was unprofitable and worthless.¯
Proclaiming the truth, not arguing error, is the biblical way to evangelize.
It seemed the Jewish Christians kept bringing up questions about keeping the Law of Moses. Paul tells Titus not to even get into a discussion with them on these matters. It would just cause confusion and strife. They would not accomplish anything, except they would divide the people.
Jesus warned over and over about studying genealogies. This is as if one class of people are better than the other. Look what John the Baptist had to say about genealogies in the next verse.
Matthew 3:9 And think not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to father: for I say unto you, that God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham.¯
Verses 10-11¯: A heretic was originally one who caused divisions or factions, but later the word emphasized such a person' s peculiar or unorthodox beliefs. Therefore, heretics and schismatics are to be rejected. As in all his epistle, Paul urges fidelity to the apostles' doctrine.
Titus 3:10 A man that is an heretic after the first and second admonition reject;¯
Reject¯: Anyone in the church who is unsubmissive, self-willed, and divisive should be expelled. Two warnings are to be given, following the basic pattern for church discipline set forth by Christ (see notes on Matt. 18:15-17; Rom. 16:17-18; 2 Thess. 3:14-15).
The word Heresy literally means choosing one' s own ideas,¯ but now refers to that which is untrue. Even the New Testament church had false or heretical teachers who taught erroneous doctrine. Some epistles were specifically written to combat them (e.g. Galatians and 2 Thessalonians).
Paul warned the Romans against identifying with those who promoted divisive, heretical teachings (Rom. 16:17). He advised Titus to reject heretics if they did not respond after two warnings (verse 10). John warned that a heretic should not be admitted into a Christian' s home (2 John 10).
Not everyone who makes an incorrect doctrinal statement is a heretic. When Apollos was further instructed concerning the gospel, he grew into a mighty Christian leader (Acts 18:24-28). By contrast, Hymeneus and Philetus were heretics when they rejected Gods truth and hurt the faith of some believers (2 Tim. 2:16-18).
Christians should as much as possible dissociate themselves from every heretic, to be unhindered in their Christian lives.
A heretic¯ is someone who does not accept the teachings of the church and decides to make up his own doctrine. Admonition¯ means rebuke, or warning. This means then, if you have warned him more than once, then reject him.
Titus 3:11 Knowing that he that is such is subverted, and sinneth, being condemned of himself.¯
Being condemned¯: By his own ungodly behavior, a factious believer brings judgment on himself.
The word translated subverted¯ could have meant perverted. It seems this person has gone so far that it is not probable he will change. Since he will not repent and change, he has condemned himself.
Verses 12-14: Paul gives Titus special instructions.
Titus 3:12 When I shall send Artemas unto thee, or Tychicus, be diligent to come unto me to Nicopolis: for I have determined there to winter.¯
Artemas¯: Nothing is known of this man beyond Paul' s obvious confidence in him.
Tychicus¯: This beloved brother and faithful servant¯ (Col. 4:7), accompanied Paul from Corinth to Asia Minor (Acts 20:4), carried the apostle' s letter to the Colossian church (Col. 4:7), and possibly his letter to Ephesus (see Eph. 6:21).
Nicopolis¯: The name means city of victory¯, and this was but one of perhaps 9 different cities so named because of decisive military battles that were won in or near them. This particular Nicopolis was probably in southern Greece, on the West cost of Achaia, which was a good place to spend the winter.¯
It seems after Titus finished setting up the church at Crete, Paul wanted him to return to him. Paul would send Artemas to this church at Crete and Tychicus to Ephesus to minister in the church. It seems Paul was concerned that they might not get the proper message in their sermons, so he sent someone he had trained. This Nicopolis would have been on the way to Rome.
Titus 3:13 Bring Zenas the lawyer and Apollos on their journey diligently, that nothing be wanting unto them.¯
Zenas¯: Nothing is known of this believer whose expertise was either in biblical law or Roman law.
Apollos¯: Originally from Alexandria, he was an outstanding teacher of Scripture who was converted to Christ after being acquainted only with the teaching of John the Baptist (Acts 18:24-28). Some of his followers apparently formed a faction in the church at Corinth (1 Cor. 1:11-12; 3:4).
Apollos was well known, he is the same Apollos that Priscilla and Aquila had ministered to. Paul might need a lawyer when he got to Rome, but I hardly doubt that is why this is mentioned here.
Titus 3:14 And let ours also learn to maintain good works for necessary uses, that they be not unfruitful.¯
Good works:¯ Again, the emphasis is on good deeds as the platform for witnessing effectively (verse 8; 1:13-16; 2:5, 8, 10, 12, 14).
Ours here, is speaking of the members of the church at Crete. The good works spoken of probably, is speaking of taking up an offering for the travelers. They should be willing to help the missionaries who came by their church.
The main reason a person should give, besides the necessity, is what it will do for their own feelings knowing they have been of help in the ministry. They can participate in the missionary endeavor, even though they do not go on the trip.
The workers, who do make the trip, are just one part of the work that it takes to get them there. This way they could feel a part of the work, too.
Titus 3:15 All that are with me salute thee. Greet them that love us in the faith. Grace with you all. Amen.¯
All that are with me¯ (1 Cor. 16:20; 2 Cor. 13:12; Phil. 4:22; also Rom. 16:21-23; Col. 4:10-14), where those with Paul are mentioned by name.
This is a typical salutation from Paul. He includes all who are with him. Paul knows and feels the love of the people in the churches he had so much to do with. He knows their love stems from the fact that directly, or indirectly, he had brought them the message of faith in Jesus Christ.
Titus Chapter 3 Questions
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