Titus 3:8 Study Bible: This 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 for people;

◄ Titus 3:8 ►

This saying is trustworthy. And I want you to emphasize these things, so that those who have believed God will take care to devote themselves to good deeds. These things are excellent and profitable for the people.

Study Bible

This saying is trustworthy
The phrase "This saying is trustworthy" is a common Pauline expression, used to emphasize the reliability and importance of the statement that follows. In Greek, the word for "trustworthy" is "πιστός" (pistos), which conveys faithfulness and dependability. Paul uses this phrase to underscore the certainty and divine authority of the teachings he is imparting. Historically, this would have been crucial for early Christians who were navigating a world filled with competing philosophies and religious ideas. The assurance of trustworthiness would have provided a solid foundation for their faith and practice.

And I want you to emphasize these things
Paul's directive to "emphasize these things" indicates the importance of repetition and reinforcement in teaching. The Greek word for "emphasize" is "διαβεβαιόομαι" (diabebaioomai), which means to affirm strongly or insist upon. This reflects the pedagogical method of the time, where oral tradition and repetition were key to learning and retention. For modern believers, this highlights the importance of continually revisiting and reinforcing core doctrines to ensure they remain central in our lives.

so that those who have believed in God
The phrase "those who have believed in God" refers to the community of believers, emphasizing faith as the entry point into the Christian life. The Greek word for "believed" is "πεπιστευκότες" (pepisteukotes), which is a perfect participle, indicating a completed action with ongoing results. This suggests that faith is not just a one-time event but has lasting implications for the believer's life. Historically, this would have been a radical shift from the works-based righteousness prevalent in many religious systems of the time.

may be intent on engaging in good deeds
The call to "be intent on engaging in good deeds" underscores the relationship between faith and works. The Greek word for "intent" is "προΐστημι" (proistemi), which means to lead or to be devoted to. This implies a proactive and deliberate commitment to living out one's faith through actions. In the historical context of the early church, this would have been a powerful witness to the surrounding culture, demonstrating the transformative power of the Gospel.

These things are excellent and profitable for the people
The concluding phrase "These things are excellent and profitable for the people" highlights the practical benefits of living a life of faith and good works. The Greek word for "excellent" is "καλός" (kalos), meaning beautiful or noble, and "profitable" is "ὠφέλιμος" (ophelimos), meaning beneficial or useful. This suggests that the teachings of the Gospel are not only spiritually enriching but also lead to a flourishing life. Historically, this would have been a compelling argument for the truth of Christianity, as the early church's commitment to good works often stood in stark contrast to the surrounding pagan practices.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul
- The apostle who authored the letter to Titus, providing guidance and instruction for church leadership and Christian living.

2. Titus
- A trusted companion of Paul, serving as a leader in the early church, specifically in Crete, where he was tasked with organizing and strengthening the church.

3. Crete
- An island in the Mediterranean Sea where Titus was stationed to oversee the church and ensure sound doctrine and good works among believers.

Teaching Points

Trustworthy Teachings
Paul emphasizes the reliability of his teachings, encouraging believers to hold fast to sound doctrine.

Emphasis on Good Works
Believers are called to actively engage in good works as a natural outflow of their faith in God.

Profitable for All
Good works are not only beneficial for the individual believer but also for the community and the broader society.

Faith and Action
Genuine faith in God should manifest in tangible actions that reflect His love and righteousness.

Leadership Responsibility
Church leaders, like Titus, are tasked with teaching and encouraging believers to live out their faith through good works.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Paul’s instruction to Titus about emphasizing good works challenge your current understanding of faith and works?

2. In what ways can you ensure that your faith is actively producing good works in your daily life?

3. How do the teachings in Titus 3:8 align with the message in James 2 about faith and works?

4. What are some practical ways you can encourage others in your community to devote themselves to good works?

5. Reflect on a time when your good works positively impacted someone else. How did this experience reinforce the teachings of Titus 3:8?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Ephesians 2:8-10
This passage emphasizes that while salvation is by grace through faith, believers are created for good works, which God prepared in advance for them to do.

James 2:14-26
James discusses the relationship between faith and works, asserting that faith without works is dead, complementing Paul's emphasis on good works in Titus.

Matthew 5:16
Jesus encourages believers to let their light shine before others through good deeds, aligning with Paul's instruction for believers to devote themselves to good works.

Sermons

Creed and Conduct	A. Maclaren, D. D.	Titus 3:8
Good Works	J. King, B. A.	Titus 3:8
Good Works	T. B. Baker, M. A.	Titus 3:8
Good Works	T. Selden.	Titus 3:8
Morality the Proper Subject of Preaching	W. Enfield.	Titus 3:8
On the Necessity of Christian Morality	D. Stevenson.	Titus 3:8
On the Necessity of Good Works	Abp. Tillotson.	Titus 3:8
Practical Christianity	Homilist	Titus 3:8
Some Hints to Preachers	F. Wagstaff.	Titus 3:8
The Connection of Faith and Good Works	R. Ferguson, LL. D.	Titus 3:8
The Maintenance of Good Works the Fruit of Faith	W. Taylor.	Titus 3:8
The Necessary Connection Between Gospel Doctrine and Good Works	T. Croskery	Titus 3:8
The Practice of Good Works	Thos. Whincop, D. D.	Titus 3:8
Justification; Faith; Works	D. Thomas	Titus 3:7, 8
Christian Character	W.M. Statham	Titus 3:8, 14

People

Apollos, Paul, Titus, Tychicus, Zenas

Places

Crete, Nicopolis

Topics

TRUE, Affirm, Apply, Attention, Believed, Care, Careful, Confidently, Constantly, Counsel, Deeds, Desire, Devote, Diligent, Engage, Example, Excellent, Faith, Faithful, Fixed, Fully, Insist, Leading, Maintain, Mankind, Order, Pay, Points, Profit, Profitable, Saying, Speak, Statement, Stedfast, Strenuously, Stress, Sure, Themselves, Thoughtful, Trusted, Trustworthy, Useful, Various, Witness, Works

Dictionary of Bible Themes

Titus 3:8

     5635   work, and redemption
     5840   eagerness
     8265   godliness

Titus 3:8-9

5465 profit

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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