Titus 3:2
to malign no one, and to be peaceable and gentle, showing full consideration to everyone.
to malign no one
The Greek word used here for "malign" is "blasphēmein," which means to speak evil of or to slander. In the context of the early Christian church, this instruction was crucial for maintaining unity and love among believers. The historical backdrop of the Roman Empire, where Christians were often misunderstood and maligned themselves, underscores the importance of this command. By refraining from speaking ill of others, Christians were to reflect the character of Christ, who was reviled yet did not revile in return (1 Peter 2:23). This phrase calls believers to a higher standard of speech, one that builds up rather than tears down, aligning with the biblical principle of loving one's neighbor as oneself (Matthew 22:39).

and to be peaceable
The term "peaceable" is translated from the Greek word "amachos," which means not contentious or abstaining from fighting. In a world rife with conflict and division, the early Christians were called to be peacemakers, echoing Jesus' teaching in the Beatitudes: "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God" (Matthew 5:9). This call to peace is not merely the absence of conflict but an active pursuit of harmony and reconciliation. Historically, the early church faced persecution and internal disputes, making this exhortation particularly relevant. Christians are encouraged to embody the peace of Christ, which surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:7), in their interactions with others.

and gentle
The Greek word for "gentle" is "epieikēs," which conveys a sense of moderation, patience, and forbearance. This quality is a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23) and is essential for Christian leadership and witness. In the cultural context of the time, where power and dominance were often valued, gentleness was a countercultural virtue that demonstrated strength under control. The gentle nature of Christ, who invited the weary and burdened to find rest in Him (Matthew 11:28-29), serves as the ultimate example for believers. Gentleness involves a compassionate and understanding approach to others, reflecting God's grace and mercy.

showing full consideration
The phrase "showing full consideration" is derived from the Greek "prautēs," which is often translated as meekness or humility. This involves a humble and respectful attitude towards others, recognizing their inherent worth as individuals created in the image of God. In the historical context of the early church, which was composed of diverse social and ethnic backgrounds, this call to consideration was vital for fostering unity and love. It echoes the apostle Paul's exhortation in Philippians 2:3-4 to "do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves." This attitude of humility and respect is foundational for Christian community and witness.

to everyone
The inclusivity of "everyone" emphasizes the universal scope of Christian love and respect. The Greek word "pas" means all or every, indicating that no one is excluded from this command. This reflects the biblical teaching that God shows no partiality (Acts 10:34) and that His love extends to all people. In the early church, this was a radical concept, as societal norms often dictated divisions based on ethnicity, class, and gender. By instructing believers to show consideration to everyone, Paul reinforces the idea that the gospel transcends all human barriers and calls for a community marked by love and acceptance. This universal application challenges Christians today to extend grace and kindness to all, regardless of differences, embodying the inclusive love of Christ.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Titus
A trusted companion of the Apostle Paul, Titus was a Gentile convert and a leader in the early church. Paul left him in Crete to organize the church and appoint elders.

2. Paul the Apostle
The author of the letter to Titus, Paul was a key figure in the spread of Christianity in the first century. His letters form a significant portion of the New Testament.

3. Crete
An island in the Mediterranean Sea where Titus was stationed to oversee the church. Known for its diverse population and challenges in establishing a Christian community.
Teaching Points
Guarding Our Speech
The Greek word for "malign" (blasph?me?) implies speaking evil or slandering. Christians are called to guard their tongues and speak with integrity and kindness.

Pursuing Peace
Being "peaceable" involves actively seeking harmony and avoiding unnecessary conflict. This reflects the peace of Christ that should rule in our hearts.

Exercising Gentleness
Gentleness is a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:23). It involves strength under control and a compassionate approach to others, even in difficult situations.

Showing Consideration
The phrase "showing full consideration" suggests a deep respect and understanding for others, recognizing their inherent worth as God's creation.

Living Out the Gospel
Our behavior towards others is a reflection of the Gospel. By embodying these virtues, we demonstrate the transformative power of Christ in our lives.
Bible Study Questions
1. How can we practically guard our speech to ensure we are not maligning others in our daily interactions?

2. In what ways can we actively pursue peace in our relationships, both within the church and in the broader community?

3. How does the concept of gentleness challenge our current cultural norms, and how can we cultivate this virtue in our lives?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to show full consideration to everyone, especially those we may disagree with?

5. How do the teachings in Titus 3:2 connect with the broader message of the Gospel, and how can we live out these principles in our daily walk with Christ?
Connections to Other Scriptures
James 3:17-18
This passage emphasizes the wisdom that comes from above, which is pure, peace-loving, considerate, and full of mercy. It aligns with the call in Titus 3:2 to be peaceable and gentle.

Philippians 4:5
Paul encourages believers to let their gentleness be evident to all, reinforcing the teaching in Titus 3:2 about showing full consideration to everyone.

1 Peter 2:1
Peter advises believers to rid themselves of malice and deceit, which connects to the instruction in Titus 3:2 to malign no one.
Of Evil-Speaking in GeneralIsaac BarrowTitus 3:2
The Right Deportment of Christians Toward All MenT. Croskery Titus 3:2
Avoiding Evil SpeakingW. Baxendale.Titus 3:1-2
Christian DutyT. Taylor, D. D.Titus 3:1-2
Christian GentlenessT. Taylor, D. D.Titus 3:1-2
Christian MeeknessT. Taylor, D. D.Titus 3:1-2
Christian UsefulnessJ. Burns, D. D.Titus 3:1-2
Christians Should be Taught Good CitizenshipProfessor B. Pierce.Titus 3:1-2
Civil DutiesJ. O. Dykes, D. D.Titus 3:1-2
Contention to be AvoidedT. Taylor, D. D.Titus 3:1-2
Cure for Evil SpeakingA. W. Hare, M. A.Titus 3:1-2
DetractionW. Moodie, D. D., T. Taylor, D. D.Titus 3:1-2
DutyD. Thomas, D. D.Titus 3:1-2
Evil SpeakingArchbishop Tillotson.Titus 3:1-2
Evil SpeakingIsaac Barrow, D. D.Titus 3:1-2
Gentleman DefinedJ.C. Hare.Titus 3:1-2
Honouring AuthorityH. W. Beecher.Titus 3:1-2
MeeknessTitus 3:1-2
Ministers RemembrancersT. Taylor, D. D.Titus 3:1-2
Obedience to Civil MagistratesN. Emmons, D. D.Titus 3:1-2
On Evil SpeakingJ. Jortin, D. D.Titus 3:1-2
Readiness to Good Works Explained and RecommendedJ. Benson.Titus 3:1-2
Sin of Evil SpeakingF. W. Robertson, M. A.Titus 3:1-2
Subjection to Civil RulersHenry Dove, D. D.Titus 3:1-2
Subjection to the StateW.M. Statham Titus 3:1, 2
The Authority of LawF. Wagstaff.Titus 3:1-2
The Christian CitizenC. S. Robinson, D. D.Titus 3:1-2
The Christian CitizenMonday Club SermonsTitus 3:1-2
The Christian's Loyalty to Secular GovernmentD. C. Hughes, M. A.Titus 3:1-2
The Might of MeeknessJ. O. Dykes, D. D.Titus 3:1-2
The Subject's DutyJohn Cleaver, M. A.Titus 3:1-2
To the Active ChristianG. Brooks.Titus 3:1-2
DutyD. Thomas Titus 3:1-3
People
Apollos, Paul, Titus, Tychicus, Zenas
Places
Crete, Nicopolis
Topics
TRUE, Behaviour, Brawlers, Considerate, Consideration, Constantly, Contentious, Courtesy, Evil, Fighters, Forgiving, Gentle, Humility, Malign, Manifest, Meekness, Mild, Peaceable, Perfect, Quarreling, Quarrelsome, Shewing, Showing, Speak, Spirit, Towards, Unselfishly, Yield
Dictionary of Bible Themes
Titus 3:2

     1462   truth, in NT
     5346   injury
     5951   slander
     8276   humility
     8305   meekness
     8475   self-denial

Titus 3:1-2

     5765   attitudes, to people
     5931   resistance
     8264   gentleness
     8467   reminders

Library
Of the Necessity of Divine Influences to Produce Regeneration in the Soul.
Titus iii. 5, 6. Titus iii. 5, 6. 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; which he shed on us abundantly, through Jesus Christ our Saviour. IF my business were to explain and illustrate this scripture at large, it would yield an ample field for accurate criticism and useful discourse, and more especially would lead us into a variety of practical remarks, on which it would be pleasant
Philip Doddridge—Practical Discourses on Regeneration

Of Evil-Speaking in General.
"To speak evil of no man."--Titus iii. 2. These words do imply a double duty; one incumbent on teachers, another on the people who are to be instructed by them. The teacher's duty appeareth from reflecting on the words of the context, which govern these, and make them up an entire sentence: put them in mind, or, rub up their memory to do thus. It is St. Paul's injunction to Titus, a bishop and pastor of the Church, that he should admonish the people committed to his care and instruction,
Isaac Barrow—Sermons on Evil-Speaking, by Isaac Barrow

The Regenerating Work of the Holy Spirit.
The Apostle Paul in Titus iii. 5, R. V., writes, "Not by works done in righteousness, which we did ourselves, but according to His mercy He saved us, through the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Ghost." In these words we are taught that the Holy Spirit renews men, or makes men new, and that through this renewing of the Holy Spirit, we are saved. Jesus taught the same in John iii. 3-5, "Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again,
R. A. Torrey—The Person and Work of The Holy Spirit

Whether the Foreknowledge of Merits is the Cause of Predestination
Whether the Foreknowledge of Merits is the Cause of Predestination We proceed to the fifth article thus: 1. It seems that the foreknowledge of merits is the cause of predestination. For the apostle says: "whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate" (Rom. 8:29), and the gloss of Ambrose on the words "I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy" (Rom. 9:15) says: "I will have mercy on whom I foreknow will return to me with his whole heart." It thus appears that the foreknowledge of merits is the
Aquinas—Nature and Grace

Whether Christians are Bound to Obey the Secular Powers?
Objection 1: It seems that Christians are not bound to obey the secular power. For a gloss on Mat. 17:25, "Then the children are free," says: "If in every kingdom the children of the king who holds sway over that kingdom are free, then the children of that King, under Whose sway are all kingdoms, should be free in every kingdom." Now Christians, by their faith in Christ, are made children of God, according to Jn. 1:12: "He gave them power to be made the sons of God, to them that believe in His name."
Saint Thomas Aquinas—Summa Theologica

Whether the Foreknowledge of Merits is the Cause of Predestination?
Objection 1: It seems that foreknowledge of merits is the cause of predestination. For the Apostle says (Rom. 8:29): "Whom He foreknew, He also predestined." Again a gloss of Ambrose on Rom. 9:15: "I will have mercy upon whom I will have mercy" says: "I will give mercy to him who, I foresee, will turn to Me with his whole heart." Therefore it seems the foreknowledge of merits is the cause of predestination. Objection 2: Further, Divine predestination includes the divine will, which by no means can
Saint Thomas Aquinas—Summa Theologica

Whether any Merits Preceded the Union of the Incarnation?
Objection 1: It would seem that the union of the Incarnation followed upon certain merits, because upon Ps. 32:22, "Let Thy mercy, o Lord, be upon us, as," etc. a gloss says: "Here the prophet's desire for the Incarnation and its merited fulfilment are hinted at." Therefore the Incarnation falls under merit. Objection 2: Further, whoever merits anything merits that without which it cannot be. But the ancient Fathers merited eternal life, to which they were able to attain only by the Incarnation;
Saint Thomas Aquinas—Summa Theologica

Whether the Sacraments are the Cause of Grace?
Objection 1: It seems that the sacraments are not the cause of grace. For it seems that the same thing is not both sign and cause: since the nature of sign appears to be more in keeping with an effect. But a sacrament is a sign of grace. Therefore it is not its cause. Objection 2: Further, nothing corporeal can act on a spiritual thing: since "the agent is more excellent than the patient," as Augustine says (Gen. ad lit. xii). But the subject of grace is the human mind, which is something spiritual.
Saint Thomas Aquinas—Summa Theologica

Whether There Should be Seven Sacraments?
Objection 1: It seems that there ought not to be seven sacraments. For the sacraments derive their efficacy from the Divine power, and the power of Christ's Passion. But the Divine power is one, and Christ's Passion is one; since "by one oblation He hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified" (Heb. 10:14). Therefore there should be but one sacrament. Objection 2: Further, a sacrament is intended as a remedy for the defect caused by sin. Now this is twofold, punishment and guilt. Therefore two
Saint Thomas Aquinas—Summa Theologica

Whether the Sacrament of Penance May be Repeated?
Objection 1: It would seem that the sacrament of Penance should not be repeated. For the Apostle says (Heb. 6:4, seqq.): "It is impossible for those, who were once illuminated, have tasted also the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost . . . and are fallen away, to be renewed again to penance." Now whosoever have done penance, have been illuminated, and have received the gift of the Holy Ghost. Therefore whosoever sin after doing penance, cannot do penance again. Objection 2: Further,
Saint Thomas Aquinas—Summa Theologica

Whether Every Human Law is Derived from the Natural Law?
Objection 1: It would seem that not every human law is derived from the natural law. For the Philosopher says (Ethic. v, 7) that "the legal just is that which originally was a matter of indifference." But those things which arise from the natural law are not matters of indifference. Therefore the enactments of human laws are not derived from the natural law. Objection 2: Further, positive law is contrasted with natural law, as stated by Isidore (Etym. v, 4) and the Philosopher (Ethic. v, 7). But
Saint Thomas Aquinas—Summa Theologica

Whether Isidore's Description of the Quality of Positive Law is Appropriate?
Objection 1: It would seem that Isidore's description of the quality of positive law is not appropriate, when he says (Etym. v, 21): "Law shall be virtuous, just, possible to nature, according to the custom of the country, suitable to place and time, necessary, useful; clearly expressed, lest by its obscurity it lead to misunderstanding; framed for no private benefit, but for the common good." Because he had previously expressed the quality of law in three conditions, saying that "law is anything
Saint Thomas Aquinas—Summa Theologica

Whether Human Law Should be Framed for the Community Rather than for the Individual?
Objection 1: It would seem that human law should be framed not for the community, but rather for the individual. For the Philosopher says (Ethic. v, 7) that "the legal just . . . includes all particular acts of legislation . . . and all those matters which are the subject of decrees," which are also individual matters, since decrees are framed about individual actions. Therefore law is framed not only for the community, but also for the individual. Objection 2: Further, law is the director of human
Saint Thomas Aquinas—Summa Theologica

Whether Schism is a Special Sin?
Objection 1: It would seem that schism is not a special sin. For "schism," as Pope Pelagius I says (Epist. ad Victor. et Pancrat.), "denotes a division." But every sin causes a division, according to Is. 59:: "Your sins have divided between you and your God." Therefore schism is not a special sin. Objection 2: Further, a man is apparently a schismatic if he disobeys the Church. But every sin makes a man disobey the commandments of the Church, because sin, according to Ambrose (De Parad. viii) "is
Saint Thomas Aquinas—Summa Theologica

Whether Obedience is a Special virtue?
Objection 1: It seems that obedience is not a special virtue. For disobedience is contrary to obedience. But disobedience is a general sin, because Ambrose says (De Parad. viii) that "sin is to disobey the divine law." Therefore obedience is not a special virtue. Objection 2: Further, every special virtue is either theological or moral. But obedience is not a theological virtue, since it is not comprised under faith, hope or charity. Nor is it a moral virtue, since it does not hold the mean between
Saint Thomas Aquinas—Summa Theologica

Whether Heretics Ought to be Tolerated?
Objection 1: It seems that heretics ought to be tolerated. For the Apostle says (2 Tim. 2:24,25): "The servant of the Lord must not wrangle . . . with modesty admonishing them that resist the truth, if peradventure God may give them repentance to know the truth, and they may recover themselves from the snares of the devil." Now if heretics are not tolerated but put to death, they lose the opportunity of repentance. Therefore it seems contrary to the Apostle's command. Objection 2: Further, whatever
Saint Thomas Aquinas—Summa Theologica

Salvation by Grace. Titus 3:3-7.
Salvation by grace. Titus 3:3-7. [Lord, we confess our num'rous faults, How great our guilt has been! Foolish and vain were all our thoughts, And all our lives were sin. But, O my soul! for ever praise, For ever love his name, Who turns thy feet from dangerous ways Of folly, sin, and shame.] ['Tis not by works of righteousness Which our own hands have done; But we are saved by sovereign grace Abounding through his Son.] 'Tis from the mercy of our God That all our hopes begin; 'Tis by the water
Isaac Watts—The Psalms and Hymns of Isaac Watts

If any Bishop, Presbyter, Deacon, Sub-Deacon, Lector, Cantor, or Door-Keeper Has had Intercourse with A...
If any bishop, presbyter, deacon, sub-deacon, lector, cantor, or door-keeper has had intercourse with a woman dedicated to God, let him be deposed, as one who has corrupted a spouse of Christ, but if a layman let him be cut off. Notes. Ancient Epitome of Canon IV. A cleric coupled to a spouse of God shall be deposed. In the case of a layman he shall be cut off. This canon is found in the Corpus Juris Canonici, Gratian's Decretum, Pars II., Causa XXVII., Q. I., c. vj. A layman ravishing a nun, by
Philip Schaff—The Seven Ecumenical Councils

Luther --A Stone on the Cairn
'For David, after he had served his own generation by the will of God, fell on sleep, and was laid unto his fathers, and saw corruption: 37. But He, whom God raised again, saw no corruption.'--ACTS xiii. 36, 37. I take these words as a motto rather than as a text. You will have anticipated the use which I purpose to make of them in connection with the Luther Commemoration. They set before us, in clear sharp contrast, the distinction between the limited, transient work of the servants and the unbounded,
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture: The Acts

Postscript. Meaning Op the Word Regeneration.
To what I have said in the conclusion of the first discourse concerning the proper import of the word Regeneration, I beg leave to add the following remarks for the farther satisfaction of some worthy persons, who think it may be convenient to state the matter a little more particularly. I ACKNOWLEDGE that many learned and pious divines have taught and contended, that Regeneration does, in the strictest propriety of speech, signify Baptism--so that no unbaptized person, how well disposed soever,
Philip Doddridge—Practical Discourses on Regeneration

Salvation.
Salvation is the song that was to be sung by the redeemed in that day. "Behold now is the day." Our salvation has come. "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth, peace, good will toward men." Salvation means deliverance. A prophecy concerning the Christ--our salvation--says: "He hath sent me to bind up the broken-hearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound." Isa. 61:1. Christ our Savior came to deliver us from the prison-house of sin. In the
Charles Ebert Orr—The Gospel Day

For He Himself Also, with an Eye to the Like Necessities of Saints...
16. For he himself also, with an eye to the like necessities of saints, who, although they obey his precepts, "that with silence they work and eat their own bread," may yet from many causes stand in need of somewhat by way of supplement to the like sustenance, therefore, after he had thus said, teaching and premonishing, "Now them which are such we command and beseech in our Lord Jesus Christ, that with silence they work and eat their own bread;" [2521] yet, lest they which had whereof they might
St. Augustine—Of the Work of Monks.

Whether Grace and virtues are Bestowed on Man by Baptism?
Objection 1: It seems that grace and virtues are not bestowed on man by Baptism. Because, as stated above ([4464]Q[62], A[1], ad 1), the sacraments of the New Law "effect what they signify." But the baptismal cleansing signifies the cleansing of the soul from guilt, and not the fashioning of the soul with grace and virtues. Therefore it seems that grace and virtues are not bestowed on man by Baptism. Objection 2: Further, one does not need to receive what one has already acquired. But some approach
Saint Thomas Aquinas—Summa Theologica

Whether Faith is Required of Necessity in the Minister of a Sacrament?
Objection 1: It seems that faith is required of necessity in the minister of a sacrament. For, as stated above [4401](A[8]), the intention of the minister is necessary for the validity of a sacrament. But "faith directs in intention" as Augustine says against Julian (In Psalm xxxi, cf. Contra Julian iv). Therefore, if the minister is without the true faith, the sacrament is invalid. Objection 2: Further, if a minister of the Church has not the true faith, it seems that he is a heretic. But heretics,
Saint Thomas Aquinas—Summa Theologica

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