Titus 3
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1Remind them to be in subjection to rulers and to authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good work, 2to speak evil of no one, not to be contentious, to be gentle, showing all humility toward all men. 3For we were also once foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving various lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another. 4But when the kindness of God our Savior and his love toward mankind appeared, 5not by works of righteousness which we did ourselves, but according to his mercy, he saved us through the washing of regeneration and renewing by the Holy Spirit, 6whom he poured out on us richly, through Jesus Christ our Savior; 7that being justified by his grace, we might be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life. 8This saying is faithful, and concerning these things I desire that you affirm confidently, so that those who have believed God may be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable to men; 9but shun foolish questionings, genealogies, strife, and disputes about the law; for they are unprofitable and vain. 10Avoid a factious man after a first and second warning, 11knowing that such a one is perverted and sins, being self-condemned. 12When I send Artemas to you, or Tychicus, be diligent to come to me to Nicopolis, for I have determined to winter there. 13Send Zenas, the lawyer, and Apollos on their journey speedily, that nothing may be lacking for them. 14Let our people also learn to maintain good works for necessary uses, that they may not be unfruitful. 15All who are with me greet you. Greet those who love us in faith. Grace be with you all. Amen.
World English Bible (public domain)
“not by works of righteousness which we did ourselves, but according to his mercy, he saved us through the washing of regeneration and renewing by the Holy Spirit,”
Titus 3:5
Summary
In Titus 3, Paul emphasizes the importance of community behavior among believers, urging them to submit to authorities and engage in good works. He reflects on their former lives characterized by foolishness and malice, contrasting this with God's kindness revealed in salvation. The chapter elucidates that salvation is purely by grace and not based on human efforts. Paul encourages believers to remain focused on good deeds while avoiding distractions from unproductive disputes and divisive individuals. He concludes with practical instructions for ministry and emphasizes the need for grace within the community, highlighting a united faith. Overall, this chapter underscores the transformation of believers’ lives through God's mercy, calling them to live out their faith in tangible ways.
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Chapter outline
How Titus 3 unfolds
Titus 3:1–2 Instructions for Conduct
Paul instructs Titus to remind the believers to submit to authorities, be obedient, and engage in good works while showing humility and gentleness to others.
Titus 3:3–5 Past Condition and Salvation
The chapter reflects on the believers' past, highlighting their foolishness and disobedience, but emphasizes God’s kindness and mercy in saving them through regeneration and the Holy Spirit.
Titus 3:6–7 Justification and Hope
Believers are justified by God's grace, becoming heirs to the hope of eternal life through Jesus Christ, underscoring their new identity in Christ.
Titus 3:8–9 Encouragement for Good Works
Titus is urged to affirm the faithful sayings regarding good works, while also avoiding unproductive disputes and controversies, which serve no purpose.
Titus 3:10–11 Dealing with Divisive Persons
Believers are advised to avoid divisive individuals after repeated warnings, recognizing that such behavior is self-condemning and destructive to the community.
Titus 3:12–14 Final Instructions and Greetings
Paul provides practical instructions regarding travel and ministry support, and reminds the community about the importance of good works for fruitful living.
Titus 3:15 Concluding Remarks
The chapter closes with greetings and a wish for grace, reinforcing connections of faith among believers.
Key verses
Titus 3:5Verse 5 encapsulates the core message of salvation by grace, highlighting God's mercy as the foundation for believers' new lives.
Main themes in Titus 3
Authority and Submission
This theme surfaces in verses 1-2, where Paul instructs believers to be submissive to rulers and authorities. The chapter deepens this concept by contrasting the past disobedience of believers with their new identity, emphasizing that grace transforms how they relate to authority. Ultimately, this understanding of authority affects not only individual behavior but also the overall relationships within the community, fostering harmony and respect among its members.
Transformation by Grace
The theme of transformation through grace emerges in verses 4-7, where Paul delineates the change from being foolish to being heirs of eternal life. This transformation is underscored by God's mercy rather than human effort, showing that grace leads to a new identity. This change frames the chapter's overall call to good works.
Good Works and Community
In verses 8 and 14, Paul highlights the significance of good works, asserting that they are essential for the community's health and growth. He presents these actions as expected responses from believers who have received salvation, thus reinforcing their role in demonstrating faith. This theme is pivotal in the chapter's concluding exhortations, as it connects the internal belief of individuals with their outward actions, ultimately shaping the community's character and witness.
Cross-references
Passages that echo Titus 3
- Ephesians 2This passage connects through its focus on salvation by grace and the result of good works as evidence of faith.
- John 3The theme of new birth through the Spirit echoes in Paul’s mention of regeneration, highlighting the transformative nature of salvation.
- Isaiah 44This reference develops the idea of God's kindness and mercy, reminding believers of God’s past acts of salvation for His people.
- Romans 12The call for humility and good works connects to Paul’s teachings on living sacrificial lives in service to others.
- 2 Timothy 2This passage connects by advising the avoidance of divisive persons and encourages maintaining the unity of faith.
- Colossians 1This connects through themes of inheritance and being made new, emphasizing the believer's transformed identity in Christ.
Study questions
Questions for studying Titus 3
- What specific behaviors does Paul encourage in verses 1-2?
- How do verses 3-5 describe the former state of believers?
- What does justification mean in the context of verses 6-7?
- Why does Paul urge believers to avoid foolish disputes in verse 9?
- How might the instructions about divisive people in verses 10-11 apply today?
- What practical needs are mentioned in verses 12-14 regarding ministry support?
- How does the closing in verse 15 enhance the message of unity?
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