◄ Titus 1 ►
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Paul’s Greeting to Titus (2 Corinthians 8:16–24) 1Paul, a servant of God and an apostle of Jesus Christ for the faith of God’s elect and their knowledge of the truth that leads to godliness, 2in the hope of eternal life, which God, who cannot lie, promised before time began.a 3In His own time He has made His word evident in the proclamation entrusted to me by the command of God our Savior. 4To Titus, my true child in our common faith: Grace and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Savior. Appointing Elders on Crete (1 Timothy 3:1–7; 1 Peter 5:1–4) 5The reason I left you in Crete was that you would set in order what was unfinished and appoint elders in every town, as I directed you. 6An elder must be blameless, the husband of but one wife,b having children who are believers and who are not open to accusation of indiscretion or insubordination. 7As God’s steward, an overseer must be above reproach—not self-willed, not quick-tempered, not given to drunkenness, not violent, not greedy for money. 8Instead, he must be hospitable, a lover of good, self-controlled, upright, holy, and disciplined. 9He must hold firmly to the faithful word as it was taught, so that he can encourage others by sound teaching and refute those who contradict it. Correcting False Teachers (1 Timothy 1:3–11) 10For many are rebellious and full of empty talk and deception, especially those of the circumcision, 11who must be silenced. For the sake of dishonorable gain, they undermine entire households and teach things they should not. 12As one of their own prophets has said, “Cretans are always liars, evil beasts, lazy gluttons.”c 13This testimony is true. Therefore rebuke them sternly, so that they will be sound in the faith 14and will pay no attention to Jewish myths or to the commands of men who have rejected the truth. 15To the pure, all things are pure; but to the defiled and unbelieving, nothing is pure. Indeed, both their minds and their consciences are defiled. 16They profess to know God, but by their actions they deny Him. They are detestable, disobedient, and unfit for any good deed. Footnotes: 2 a Literally before times eternal 6 b Or faithful to his wife 12 c This quote, also known as the Epimenides paradox, has been attributed to the Cretan philosopher Epimenides of Knossos. Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Titus 1 Summary Appointing Elders on Crete Verses 1–3 – Greeting Rooted in God’s Promise Paul introduces himself as “a servant of God and an apostle of Jesus Christ” sent to build faith and knowledge that lead to godliness. His mission rests on “the hope of eternal life, which God, who cannot lie, promised before time began.” The greeting is anchored in God’s unbreakable promise, showing that Christian certainty is grounded in God’s own character. Verse 4 – Personal Word to Titus Paul calls Titus “my true child in our common faith,” linking them as family in Christ. The prayer for “grace and peace” echoes Paul’s usual blessing, underlining that both come from “God the Father and Christ Jesus our Savior.” Verse 5 – The Task in Crete Paul left Titus in Crete to “set in order what was unfinished” and to “appoint elders in every town.” Organization and leadership were urgent so that the young churches could grow in stability and health. Verses 6–9 – Qualifications for Elders Elders must be “blameless,” faithful in marriage, have believing children, and be free from arrogance, anger, or greed. Positively, they must be hospitable, self-controlled, upright, holy, and disciplined, “holding firmly to the trustworthy word” so they can encourage believers and refute opponents. Verses 10–13a – The Problem of False Teachers Many “rebellious people” are “empty talkers and deceivers,” especially within “the circumcision group.” They upset whole households for dishonest gain. Paul quotes a local prophet: “Cretans are always liars, evil beasts, lazy gluttons,” and affirms, “This testimony is true.” Verses 13b–14 – Rebuke with Purpose Titus must “rebuke them sharply” so they will be sound in the faith, no longer chasing “Jewish myths” or man-made commands that turn people from the truth. Verse 15 – Pure Hearts, Pure Vision “To the pure, all things are pure, but to the corrupt and unbelieving, nothing is pure.” Inner corruption twists everything; purity of heart frees believers to see life God’s way. Verse 16 – Denial by Deeds False teachers “claim to know God, but by their actions they deny Him.” They are “detestable, disobedient, and unfit for any good work,” proving that real faith must be matched by godly living. Titus 1, a chapter from the Epistle of Paul to Titus, presents a powerful exploration of spiritual leadership, integrity, and the importance of adherence to the doctrine of faith. The Apostle Paul guides Titus, a Greek companion in his missionary journey, on how to establish and manage the early Christian communities in Crete, an island riddled with cultural challenges and false teachings. Authorship and Date Internal clues (1:1, 1:4) point clearly to Paul. Early church writers such as Clement of Rome and Irenaeus accepted Pauline authorship. The letter likely comes from the mid-60s AD, after Paul’s first Roman imprisonment (Acts 28) during travels not recorded in Acts. Recipients and Setting: Crete Crete, a large Mediterranean island, had a reputation for piracy, deception, and moral laxity. Archaeologists have unearthed Minoan palaces and Roman-era cities like Gortyn. The Gortyn Law Code—still visible on stone blocks—shows a society keen on legal detail, yet Paul confronts spiritual lawlessness. Shipping lanes made Crete a crossroads; thus error could spread quickly if churches lacked firm leadership. Purpose of the Letter 1. Establish orderly leadership. 2. Confront false teaching. 3. Encourage practical godliness that flows from sound doctrine. Paul weaves these aims into every command, urging Titus to foster communities that make the gospel attractive (cf. 2:10). Paul’s Apostleship and the Hope of Eternal Life (1:1-3) • “God, who cannot lie” contrasts sharply with the Cretan stereotype of deceit. • Eternal life is “promised before time began,” echoing 2 Timothy 1:9 and Ephesians 1:4. • Paul’s preaching is “in His own time” brought to light, highlighting God’s perfect timing (Galatians 4:4). The Role of Titus (1:4-5) Titus, a Gentile believer (Galatians 2:3), had proven himself on tough assignments in Corinth (2 Corinthians 8:16-23). His blend of firmness and care made him ideal for the raw mission field of Crete. Elder Qualifications in Everyday Language (1:6-9) Negative traits to avoid: • Arrogance • Quick temper • Heavy drinking • Violence • Love of money Positive traits to embrace: • Faithful in marriage • Nurturing, believing children • Hospitality • Love of what is good • Self-control and discipline • Firm grip on Scripture Cross-reference: 1 Timothy 3:1-7 lists similar qualities, showing continuity in Paul’s expectations across different churches. False Teachers and Jewish Myths (1:10-14) • “Circumcision group” echoes Acts 15:1 and Galatians 2:12—Jewish Christians who insisted on Mosaic rituals. • “Jewish myths” may involve fanciful accounts added to Scripture (cf. 1 Timothy 1:4). • Financial motive: “for dishonest gain” parallels 1 Peter 5:2 on shepherds serving willingly, not for money. • Rebuke aims at restoration—sharp but loving correction. Cretan Culture and Epimenides (1:12-13) The quotation comes from Epimenides, a 6th-century BC Cretan poet. His line about habitual lying became a proverb. Paul uses local literature to expose sin while affirming common grace in truth-telling sources outside Scripture. Pure vs. Corrupt (1:15-16) Jesus taught, “Blessed are the pure in heart” (Matthew 5:8). Purity begins inside; legalistic rules cannot cleanse the soul (Mark 7:14-23). When hearts remain defiled, even good gifts appear tainted. Sound Doctrine and Good Works Throughout the letter Paul attaches right teaching to right living. “Unfit for any good work” (1:16) foreshadows his positive goal: a people “eager to do what is good” (2:14). Compare James 2:17—faith without works is dead. Archaeological Insights • Excavations at Gortyn show inscriptions mentioning local elders (presbyteroi), matching Paul’s term. • Room layouts in first-century Cretan homes reveal multi-generational families, explaining concern for “households.” • Jewish presence is evidenced by menorah graffiti at Kissamos, supporting Paul’s confrontation with “those of the circumcision group.” Leadership Lessons for Today • Character outweighs charisma. • Scripture remains the standard for teaching. • Cultural honesty is possible when leaders model truth. • Correction, though uncomfortable, protects the flock. Connections to Other Scriptures • Elders: Acts 14:23; 1 Peter 5:1-4. • False teachers: 2 Peter 2; Jude 3-13. • Purity: Philippians 4:8; 1 John 3:3. • Good works: Ephesians 2:10; Matthew 5:16. Big Picture Takeaway Titus 1 paints a portrait of churches rooted in God’s unchanging promise, led by men of proven character, shielded from destructive teaching, and devoted to good works that honor Christ before a watching world. Connections to Additional Scriptures 1 Timothy 3:1-7 Provides a parallel list of qualifications for overseers, reinforcing the standards for church leadership. 1 Peter 5:1-4 Offers guidance on shepherding the flock with humility and a willing heart, not for personal gain. Acts 20:28-31 Paul’s exhortation to the Ephesian elders to be vigilant against false teachers, emphasizing the need for spiritual oversight. Teaching Points Apostolic Authority and Purpose Paul begins by establishing his authority as a servant of God and an apostle of Jesus Christ (Titus 1:1), emphasizing his mission to further the faith of God's elect and their knowledge of the truth. Qualifications for Elders Paul outlines the qualifications for elders, stating they must be blameless, the husband of but one wife, having children who are believers (Titus 1:6). This highlights the importance of personal integrity and family leadership. Character Traits of Leaders Elders must not be arrogant, quick-tempered, drunkards, violent, or greedy for money but rather hospitable, a lover of good, self-controlled, upright, holy, and disciplined (Titus 1:7-8). These traits underscore the moral and ethical standards expected of church leaders. Sound Doctrine and Rebuke of False Teachers Paul instructs Titus to hold firmly to the trustworthy message and to encourage others by sound doctrine and refute those who oppose it (Titus 1:9). This highlights the importance of doctrinal purity and the need to confront false teachings. The Problem of False Teachers Paul warns against rebellious people, full of empty talk and deception (Titus 1:10), particularly those who disrupt households and teach for dishonest gain. This serves as a caution against those who distort the truth for personal benefit. Practical Applications Evaluate Leadership Qualities Reflect on the qualities Paul lists for church leaders and consider how they apply to your own life and leadership roles, whether in the church, home, or workplace. Pursue Personal Integrity Strive to embody the character traits of an elder, such as being self-controlled, upright, and disciplined, in your daily interactions and decisions. Guard Against False Teachings Be vigilant in studying Scripture to discern truth from falsehood, and be prepared to gently correct those who may be led astray by deceptive teachings. Encourage Sound Doctrine Support and encourage church leaders who faithfully teach and uphold sound doctrine, recognizing the importance of their role in maintaining the spiritual health of the congregation. People 1. Paul Description: The author of the letter, identifying himself as "a servant of God and an apostle of Jesus Christ" (Titus 1:1). Paul is writing to provide guidance and instruction for church leadership and sound doctrine. 2. Titus Description: The recipient of the letter, described as "my true child in our common faith" (Titus 1:4). Titus is a trusted companion and fellow worker of Paul, tasked with organizing and appointing elders in the churches of Crete. 3. God Description: Referred to as the one who "does not lie" and who "promised eternal life before the beginning of time" (Titus 1:2). God is the ultimate authority and source of truth in the letter. 4. Jesus Christ Description: Referred to as "our Savior" (Titus 1:4). Jesus is central to the faith and mission that Paul and Titus are promoting. 5. Cretans Description: The inhabitants of Crete, mentioned in a quotation from one of their own prophets: "Cretans are always liars, evil beasts, lazy gluttons" (Titus 1:12). This description is used to highlight the challenges Titus faces in establishing church leadership on the island. 6. Elders Description: While not named individually, elders are the leaders Titus is instructed to appoint in every town (Titus 1:5). They are to be men of good character, holding firmly to the trustworthy message as it has been taught. 7. Prophet of the Cretans Description: An unnamed prophet from Crete, quoted by Paul to describe the character of the Cretan people (Titus 1:12). This reference is used to emphasize the need for strong, virtuous leadership in the church. Places 1. Crete Crete is the primary location mentioned in Titus 1. It is an island in the Mediterranean Sea where Paul left Titus to organize and strengthen the church. The Cretans are described in verse 12, quoting one of their own prophets, as "always liars, evil beasts, lazy gluttons." The Greek word used here is Κρήτη (Krētē), which refers to the island known for its challenging cultural characteristics that Titus had to address. Events 1. Introduction and Greeting (Titus 1:1-4) Paul introduces himself as a servant of God and an apostle of Jesus Christ. He emphasizes his mission to further the faith of God's elect and their knowledge of the truth that leads to godliness. The Greek word for "servant" is "δοῦλος" (doulos), indicating a bondservant or slave, highlighting Paul's humility and dedication. 2. Appointment of Elders (Titus 1:5) Paul instructs Titus to appoint elders in every town, as he had directed. The term "elders" comes from the Greek "πρεσβύτερος" (presbyteros), which refers to mature leaders within the church. 3. Qualifications for Elders (Titus 1:6-9) Paul outlines the qualifications for elders, including being blameless, faithful to their spouse, having believing children, and not being overbearing or quick-tempered. The Greek word "ἀνέγκλητος" (anegklētos) for "blameless" suggests being above reproach. 4. Rebuke of False Teachers (Titus 1:10-11) Paul warns against rebellious people, mere talkers, and deceivers, especially those of the circumcision group. He instructs that they must be silenced because they are disrupting whole households. The Greek "ἀνυπότακτος" (anupotaktos) for "rebellious" indicates a refusal to submit to authority. 5. Cretans' Reputation and Rebuke (Titus 1:12-13) Paul quotes a Cretan prophet, stating, "Cretans are always liars, evil beasts, lazy gluttons." He affirms this testimony and instructs Titus to rebuke them sharply. The Greek "ψεύστης" (pseustēs) for "liars" underscores the cultural stereotype Paul addresses. 6. Purpose of Rebuke (Titus 1:13-14) The purpose of the rebuke is so that they may be sound in the faith and not pay attention to Jewish myths or commands of those who reject the truth. The Greek "ὑγιαίνω" (hygiainō) for "sound" implies being healthy or whole in faith. 7. Purity and Defilement (Titus 1:15) Paul states that to the pure, all things are pure, but to those who are corrupted and do not believe, nothing is pure. The Greek "καθαρός" (katharos) for "pure" suggests moral and spiritual cleanliness. 8. Denial of God by Actions (Titus 1:16) Paul concludes by saying that some claim to know God but deny Him by their actions. They are detestable, disobedient, and unfit for doing anything good. The Greek "ἀδόκιμος" (adokimos) for "unfit" implies failing the test or being disqualified. Lessons from Titus 1 1. The Importance of Sound Doctrine In Titus 1, Paul emphasizes the need for sound doctrine, reminding us that our beliefs shape our actions. "He must hold firmly to the trustworthy message as it has been taught, so that he can encourage others by sound doctrine and refute those who oppose it" (Titus 1:9). This is a call to anchor ourselves in the truth of Scripture, ensuring that our faith is built on a solid foundation. By doing so, we can confidently share the gospel and stand firm against false teachings. 2. The Role of Elders in the Church Paul outlines the qualifications for elders, highlighting their crucial role in guiding the church. "An elder must be blameless, the husband of but one wife, a man whose children are believers and not open to the charge of being wild and disobedient" (Titus 1:6). Elders are called to be examples of godly living, leading with integrity and wisdom. Their leadership is vital for maintaining the spiritual health of the congregation. 3. The Call to Live Above Reproach Living above reproach is a recurring theme in Titus 1. Paul instructs, "Since an overseer manages God’s household, he must be blameless—not overbearing, not quick-tempered, not given to drunkenness, not violent, not pursuing dishonest gain" (Titus 1:7). This is a reminder for all believers to strive for a life that reflects Christ's character, avoiding behaviors that could tarnish our witness. 4. The Power of Self-Control Self-control is a fruit of the Spirit and a key characteristic of a mature believer. Paul advises, "Rather, he must be hospitable, one who loves what is good, who is self-controlled, upright, holy, and disciplined" (Titus 1:8). Exercising self-control in our daily lives helps us resist temptation and live in a way that honors God. 5. The Danger of False Teachers Paul warns against false teachers who distort the truth for personal gain. "For there are many rebellious people, full of meaningless talk and deception, especially those of the circumcision group" (Titus 1:10). We must be vigilant, discerning truth from error, and protecting the church from those who would lead others astray. 6. The Need for Rebuke and Correction Rebuke and correction are necessary for maintaining doctrinal purity. Paul instructs, "Therefore rebuke them sharply, so that they will be sound in the faith" (Titus 1:13). While it may be uncomfortable, addressing false teachings and sinful behavior is essential for the spiritual growth and unity of the church. 7. The Value of Good Works Good works are a natural outflow of a transformed life. Paul emphasizes, "They claim to know God, but by their actions they deny Him. They are detestable, disobedient, and unfit for doing anything good" (Titus 1:16). Our actions should align with our faith, demonstrating the love and grace of Christ to the world. 8. The Importance of Integrity Integrity is a hallmark of a true believer. Paul highlights the need for leaders to be "not pursuing dishonest gain" (Titus 1:7). Living with integrity means being honest and trustworthy in all our dealings, reflecting the character of Christ in every aspect of our lives. 9. The Call to Be Hospitable Hospitality is a practical expression of love and service. Paul notes that an elder must be "hospitable, one who loves what is good" (Titus 1:8). Opening our homes and hearts to others creates opportunities for fellowship and sharing the gospel, building a sense of community within the church. 10. The Necessity of Faithful Teaching Faithful teaching is crucial for spiritual growth and maturity. Paul instructs elders to "encourage others by sound doctrine and refute those who oppose it" (Titus 1:9). Teaching the truth of God's Word equips believers to live out their faith and share the hope of the gospel with confidence. Topics 1. Introduction and Greeting (Titus 1:1-4) Paul introduces himself as a servant of God and an apostle of Jesus Christ. He emphasizes his mission to further the faith of God's elect and their knowledge of the truth. The greeting is addressed to Titus, whom Paul calls his "true child in our common faith." The Greek term "δοῦλος" (doulos) is used for "servant," indicating a bondservant or slave, highlighting Paul's humility and dedication to God's service. 2. Qualifications for Elders (Titus 1:5-9) Paul instructs Titus to appoint elders in every town, providing a list of qualifications. Elders must be blameless, the husband of one wife, and have faithful children. They should not be overbearing, quick-tempered, or given to drunkenness. Instead, they should be hospitable, self-controlled, and hold firmly to the trustworthy message. The Greek word "ἐπίσκοπος" (episkopos) is used for "overseer," emphasizing the role of oversight and leadership within the church. 3. Rebuke of False Teachers (Titus 1:10-16) Paul warns against rebellious people, especially those of the circumcision group, who are deceivers and must be silenced. He describes them as teaching for dishonest gain and corrupting whole households. Paul quotes a Cretan prophet, saying, "Cretans are always liars, evil beasts, lazy gluttons," and affirms this testimony. The Greek term "ἀνυπότακτοι" (anupotaktoi) is used for "rebellious," indicating those who are insubordinate and refuse to submit to authority. Paul emphasizes the need for sound doctrine and purity, contrasting it with the defiled and unbelieving. Themes 1. Apostolic Authority and Mission Paul introduces himself as "a servant of God and an apostle of Jesus Christ" (Titus 1:1), establishing his authority and mission to further the faith of God's elect. The Greek term "ἀπόστολος" (apostolos) emphasizes his role as a messenger and representative of Christ. 2. Truth and Godliness The letter emphasizes the relationship between truth and godliness, stating that the knowledge of the truth "leads to godliness" (Titus 1:1). The Greek word "εὐσέβεια" (eusebeia) for godliness underscores a life of reverence and piety. 3. Hope of Eternal Life Paul speaks of the "hope of eternal life, which God, who cannot lie, promised before time began" (Titus 1:2). This theme highlights the assurance and reliability of God's promises, rooted in His unchanging nature. 4. Sound Doctrine The importance of sound doctrine is stressed, as Paul instructs Titus to "appoint elders in every town" who are "holding firmly to the trustworthy message as it has been taught" (Titus 1:5, 9). The Greek "ὑγιαίνω" (hygiaino) for sound implies health and wholeness in teaching. 5. Qualifications for Elders Paul outlines specific qualifications for church leaders, emphasizing blamelessness, faithfulness, and self-control (Titus 1:6-8). These criteria ensure that leaders are exemplary in character and conduct. 6. Rebuke of False Teachers The chapter warns against "rebellious people, full of empty talk and deception" (Titus 1:10). Paul instructs Titus to "rebuke them sharply" (Titus 1:13) to protect the church from false teachings. The Greek "ἐλέγχω" (elegcho) for rebuke implies correction and conviction. 7. Cultural Context and Challenges Paul acknowledges the cultural challenges in Crete, quoting a Cretan prophet: "Cretans are always liars, evil beasts, lazy gluttons" (Titus 1:12). This theme addresses the need for discernment and transformation within a challenging cultural environment. 8. Purity and Defilement The distinction between purity and defilement is made clear: "To the pure, all things are pure, but to the defiled and unbelieving, nothing is pure" (Titus 1:15). This theme underscores the internal nature of purity, rooted in faith and conscience. Prayer Points Pray for Church Leaders Ask God to strengthen and guide your church leaders, helping them to lead with integrity and faithfulness. Seek Personal Growth Pray for the Holy Spirit to cultivate the character traits of a godly leader in your own life. Discernment Against False Teachings Request wisdom and discernment to recognize and refute false teachings, both in the church and in the broader culture. Commitment to Sound Doctrine Pray for a deep commitment to understanding and living out sound doctrine, both personally and within your church community. Answering Tough Questions 1. Titus 1:2 – How can a timeless God make a promise “before the world began,” and what does that imply about the nature of time and creation? 2. Titus 1:5 – Is there any historical or archaeological evidence for the organized church structure Paul describes existing in Crete at that early date? 3. Titus 1:6 – How realistic is it to demand that church leaders have “faithful children,” and does this requirement conflict with the idea of free will or individual responsibility? 4. Titus 1:12 – Does quoting a Cretan author calling Cretans “always liars” create a paradox or contradiction, especially considering biblical exhortations against false judgments? 5. Titus 1:15 – How can “all things be pure” to those who are pure, yet still align with other scriptures’ dietary and moral restrictions? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. Why does Paul stress the importance of qualifications for church leaders? How can we apply this in choosing leaders today? 2. How does the cultural context of Crete influence the instructions given to Titus? 3. How can we identify false teachings in today's context? 4. What does it mean to rebuke someone sharply as Paul instructs Titus? How can we apply this in a compassionate yet firm manner? 5. How can we maintain spiritual integrity in the face of societal or cultural pressures? 6. In what ways does Paul's mission resonate with our personal spiritual journey? 7. What characteristics should a spiritual leader embody according to Titus 1? How does this contrast with society's definition of leadership? 8. How does Paul's introduction in verses 1-4 emphasize his divine mission? 9. How can we uphold and promote sound doctrine within our communities? 10. What role does the family play in determining the eligibility of an elder according to Titus 1? 11. How can we balance the responsibility of correcting others without falling into legalism or judgment? 12. How does this chapter address the issue of cultural stereotypes, such as the statement about Cretans? 13. How can we ensure that our actions align with our profession of faith as mentioned in verse 16? 14. In what ways can we be "sound in the faith" as Paul instructs? 15. How does Paul’s emphasis on the impact of leadership on the congregation influence your view on church leadership? 16. How can the principles in Titus 1 guide us in dealing with false teachings in the digital age? 17. What does the concept of being "God's steward" mean to you in a contemporary context? 18. How can Titus 1 inspire us to foster a community centered on truth and love? 19. How does this chapter shape your understanding of discipline within the church community? 20. What steps can we take to nurture our lives and communities based on the teachings in Titus 1? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions