Titus 3:2
New International Version
to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and always to be gentle toward everyone.

New Living Translation
They must not slander anyone and must avoid quarreling. Instead, they should be gentle and show true humility to everyone.

English Standard Version
to speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and to show perfect courtesy toward all people.

Berean Standard Bible
to malign no one, and to be peaceable and gentle, showing full consideration to everyone.

Berean Literal Bible
to speak evil of no one, to be peaceable, to be gentle, showing all humility toward all men.

King James Bible
To speak evil of no man, to be no brawlers, but gentle, shewing all meekness unto all men.

New King James Version
to speak evil of no one, to be peaceable, gentle, showing all humility to all men.

New American Standard Bible
to slander no one, not to be contentious, to be gentle, showing every consideration for all people.

NASB 1995
to malign no one, to be peaceable, gentle, showing every consideration for all men.

NASB 1977
to malign no one, to be uncontentious, gentle, showing every consideration for all men.

Legacy Standard Bible
to slander no one, to be peaceable, considerate, demonstrating all gentleness to all men.

Amplified Bible
to slander or abuse no one, to be kind and conciliatory and gentle, showing unqualified consideration and courtesy toward everyone.

Christian Standard Bible
to slander no one, to avoid fighting, and to be kind, always showing gentleness to all people.

Holman Christian Standard Bible
to slander no one, to avoid fighting, and to be kind, always showing gentleness to all people.

American Standard Version
to speak evil of no man, not to be contentious, to be gentle, showing all meekness toward all men.

Contemporary English Version
and not say cruel things or argue. They should be gentle and kind to everyone.

English Revised Version
to speak evil of no man, not to be contentious, to be gentle, shewing all meekness toward all men.

GOD'S WORD® Translation
Believers shouldn't curse anyone or be quarrelsome, but they should be gentle and show courtesy to everyone.

Good News Translation
Tell them not to speak evil of anyone, but to be peaceful and friendly, and always to show a gentle attitude toward everyone.

International Standard Version
They are not to insult anyone or be argumentative. Instead, they are to be gentle and perfectly courteous to everyone.

Majority Standard Bible
to malign no one, and to be peaceable and gentle, showing full consideration to everyone.

NET Bible
They must not slander anyone, but be peaceable, gentle, showing complete courtesy to all people.

New Heart English Bible
to speak evil of no one, not to be contentious, to be gentle, showing courtesy to all people.

Webster's Bible Translation
To speak evil of no man, to be no brawlers, but gentle, showing all meekness to all men.

Weymouth New Testament
not speak evil of any one, nor be contentious, but yield unselfishly to others and constantly manifest a forgiving spirit towards all men.

World English Bible
to speak evil of no one, not to be contentious, to be gentle, showing all humility toward all men.
Literal Translations
Literal Standard Version
to speak evil of no one, not to be quarrelsome—gentle, showing all meekness to all men,

Berean Literal Bible
to speak evil of no one, to be peaceable, to be gentle, showing all humility toward all men.

Young's Literal Translation
of no one to speak evil, not to be quarrelsome -- gentle, showing all meekness to all men,

Smith's Literal Translation
To slander none, to be without fighting, equitable, showing all meekness to all men.
Catholic Translations
Douay-Rheims Bible
To speak evil of no man, not to be litigious, but gentle: shewing all mildness towards all men.

Catholic Public Domain Version
to speak evil of no one, not to be litigious, but to be reserved, displaying all meekness toward all men.

New American Bible
They are to slander no one, to be peaceable, considerate, exercising all graciousness toward everyone.

New Revised Standard Version
to speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and to show every courtesy to everyone.
Translations from Aramaic
Lamsa Bible
And not to speak evil against any man, and not to be quarrelsome, but to be meek, in every respect showing gentleness to all men.

Aramaic Bible in Plain English
And not to insult any person, neither to be contending, but they should be humble and show their sweetness in all things to all people.
NT Translations
Anderson New Testament
to revile no one, not to be contentious, but gentle, showing all meekness to all men.

Godbey New Testament
to speak evil of no one, that they should be peaceable, gentle, showing all meekness to all men.

Haweis New Testament
to slander no man, to be inoffensive, gentle, shewing all meekness to all men.

Mace New Testament
to speak evil of no man, to avoid contention, to be moderate and entirely inoffensive to all men.

Weymouth New Testament
not speak evil of any one, nor be contentious, but yield unselfishly to others and constantly manifest a forgiving spirit towards all men.

Worrell New Testament
to speak evil of no one, to be averse to strife, to be mild, showing all meekness to all men.

Worsley New Testament
to slander no man, to avoid contention, to be gentle, shewing all meekness unto all men.

Additional Translations ...
Audio Bible



Context
Obedience to Authorities
1Remind the believers to submit to rulers and authorities, to be obedient and ready for every good work, 2to malign no one, and to be peaceable and gentle, showing full consideration to everyone. 3For at one time we too were foolish, disobedient, misled, and enslaved to all sorts of desires and pleasures—living in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another.…

Cross References
Ephesians 4:31-32
Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, outcry and slander, along with every form of malice. / Be kind and tenderhearted to one another, forgiving each other just as in Christ God forgave you.

James 3:17-18
But the wisdom from above is first of all pure, then peace-loving, gentle, accommodating, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial, and sincere. / Peacemakers who sow in peace reap the fruit of righteousness.

Matthew 5:44
But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,

Romans 12:17-18
Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Carefully consider what is right in the eyes of everybody. / If it is possible on your part, live at peace with everyone.

1 Peter 2:1
Rid yourselves, therefore, of all malice, deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander.

Colossians 3:12-13
Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with hearts of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. / Bear with one another and forgive any complaint you may have against someone else. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.

1 Thessalonians 5:15
Make sure that no one repays evil for evil. Always pursue what is good for one another and for all people.

Galatians 5:22-23
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, / gentleness, and self-control. Against such things there is no law.

1 Peter 3:9
Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing.

Philippians 2:3-4
Do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves. / Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.

Proverbs 15:1
A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.

Proverbs 20:3
It is honorable for a man to resolve a dispute, but any fool will quarrel.

Proverbs 25:21-22
If your enemy is hungry, give him food to eat, and if he is thirsty, give him water to drink. / For in so doing, you will heap burning coals on his head, and the LORD will reward you.

Isaiah 53:7
He was oppressed and afflicted, yet He did not open His mouth. He was led like a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is silent, so He did not open His mouth.

Micah 6:8
He has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you but to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?


Treasury of Scripture

To speak evil of no man, to be no brawlers, but gentle, showing all meekness to all men.

speak.

Psalm 140:11
Let not an evil speaker be established in the earth: evil shall hunt the violent man to overthrow him.

Proverbs 6:19
A false witness that speaketh lies, and he that soweth discord among brethren.

Acts 23:5
Then said Paul, I wist not, brethren, that he was the high priest: for it is written, Thou shalt not speak evil of the ruler of thy people.

no.

Proverbs 19:19
A man of great wrath shall suffer punishment: for if thou deliver him, yet thou must do it again.

Proverbs 25:24
It is better to dwell in the corner of the housetop, than with a brawling woman and in a wide house.

1 Timothy 3:3
Not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous;

gentle.

2 Samuel 22:36
Thou hast also given me the shield of thy salvation: and thy gentleness hath made me great.

Isaiah 40:11
He shall feed his flock like a shepherd: he shall gather the lambs with his arm, and carry them in his bosom, and shall gently lead those that are with young.

Matthew 11:29
Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.

all men.

1 Corinthians 9:19
For though I be free from all men, yet have I made myself servant unto all, that I might gain the more.

Galatians 6:10
As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.

1 Thessalonians 5:14,15
Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the feebleminded, support the weak, be patient toward all men

Jump to Previous
Avoid Brawlers Considerate Constantly Contentious Evil Fighters Forgiving Gentle Humility Malign Manifest Meekness Others Peaceable Perfect Quarreling Shewing Show Showing Slander Speak Spirit Towards True. Yield
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Avoid Brawlers Considerate Constantly Contentious Evil Fighters Forgiving Gentle Humility Malign Manifest Meekness Others Peaceable Perfect Quarreling Shewing Show Showing Slander Speak Spirit Towards True. Yield
Titus 3
1. Titus is further directed by Paul concerning the things that he should teach and not teach.
10. He is to reject obstinate heretics.
12. Paul appoints him time and place wherein he should come unto him.














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.

(2) To speak evil of no man.--These commands of St. Paul to the Church of Crete breathe throughout the spirit of Christ, who "when He was reviled, reviled not again;" who said "Love your enemies, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you and persecute you." The Christian in the days of St. Paul, and for "many days" after St. Paul had borne that gallant witness of his outside the gates of Rome, would indeed often be called in sad earnestness to put in practice these charges of the Apostle. In days of persecution, in times of suspicion, when the Christian profession exposed men to hatred and to sore danger, when all men spoke evil of them, these words of St. Paul were remembered and acted upon, and not only in Crete.

To be no brawlers, but gentle, shewing all meekness unto all men.--Or better, not contentious, but, &c. These characteristics were not common virtues in Crete, then the resort and mart of so many different nationalities. Its singular situation in the Mediterranean, midway between Europe, Africa, and Asia, has been noticed, as have been the dispositions and vices of the inhabitants. Surely, St. Paul urges, the professed followers of the Crucified among the Cretans should aim at a nobler standard of life than was common among these rough and often selfish traders. These things charged here by St. Paul were new virtues to men. They are held up to admiration by no heathen moralists. The meekness signifies kindly forbearance. This Christian feeling, which looks lovingly on all sorts and conditions of men, on the stranger and the outcast, even on the vilest sinner, is especially enjoined here. It is the same sweet spirit of love which desires, in 1Timothy 2:1, that prayer and supplication be made in the public Christian assembly for all men.

Verse 2. - Not to be contentious for to be no brawlers, A.V.; to be for but, A.V.; toward for unto, A.V. To speak evil of no man (μηδένα βλασφημεῖν). Probably especially pointed in the first place at a natural tendency of oppressed Christians to speak evil of their rulers (2 Peter 2:10; Jude 1:10), but extended into a general precept which might be especially needful for the rough and turbulent Cretans. Not to be contentious (ἀμάχους εἴναι); as 1 Timothy 3:3, note. To be gentle (ἐπιεικεῖς); coupled, as here, with ἀμάχους in 1 Timothy 3:3. Showing (ἐνδεικνυμένους); a word of frequent occurrence in St. Paul's vocabulary (Romans 2:15; Romans 9:17.22; Ephesians 2:7, etc.; see above, Titus 2:10, note). Meekness (πραότητα); another Pauline word (1 Corinthians 4:21; 2 Corinthians 10:1; Galatians 5:23, etc.; 1 Timothy 6:11; 2 Timothy 2:25). The precept is given its widest extension by the double addition of "all" and "to all men." The roughness, or want of courtesy, of others is no excuse for the want of meekness in those who are the disciples of him who was meek and lowly in heart (Matthew 11:29). All men, whatever their station, the highest or the lowest, are to receive meek and gentle treatment from the Christian.

Parallel Commentaries ...


Greek
to malign
βλασφημεῖν (blasphēmein)
Verb - Present Infinitive Active
Strong's 987: From blasphemos; to vilify; specially, to speak impiously.

no one,
μηδένα (mēdena)
Adjective - Accusative Masculine Singular
Strong's 3367: No one, none, nothing.

[and] to be
εἶναι (einai)
Verb - Present Infinitive Active
Strong's 1510: I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist.

peaceable
ἀμάχους (amachous)
Adjective - Accusative Masculine Plural
Strong's 269: Peaceable, abstaining from fighting, not contentious. Peaceable.

[and] gentle,
ἐπιεικεῖς (epieikeis)
Adjective - Accusative Masculine Plural
Strong's 1933: Gentle, mild, forbearing, fair, reasonable, moderate. From epi and eiko; appropriate, i.e. mild.

showing
ἐνδεικνυμένους (endeiknymenous)
Verb - Present Participle Middle - Accusative Masculine Plural
Strong's 1731: To show forth, prove. From en and deiknuo; to indicate.

full
πᾶσαν (pasan)
Adjective - Accusative Feminine Singular
Strong's 3956: All, the whole, every kind of. Including all the forms of declension; apparently a primary word; all, any, every, the whole.

consideration
πραΰτητα (prautēta)
Noun - Accusative Feminine Singular
Strong's 4240: Mildness, gentleness. From praus; mildness, i.e. humility.

to
πρὸς (pros)
Preposition
Strong's 4314: To, towards, with. A strengthened form of pro; a preposition of direction; forward to, i.e. Toward.

everyone.
πάντας (pantas)
Adjective - Accusative Masculine Plural
Strong's 3956: All, the whole, every kind of. Including all the forms of declension; apparently a primary word; all, any, every, the whole.


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NT Letters: Titus 3:2 To speak evil of no one not (Ti. Tt.)
Titus 3:1
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