Titus 3
Titus 3 is the final chapter among the entire Book of Titus, emphasizing the right attitude of a Christian’s life and proper conduct within and outside the faith community. Paul conveys to Titus the responsibilities of a Christian in civic society, the change in life as one who has been saved, and the lessons that must be observed within the community.
- Verses 1-2: Social responsibilities of Christians, obedience and gentleness
- Verses 3-7: Our past and salvation by God’s mercy
- Verses 8-11: Exhortation to work for good deeds and caution against disputes
- Verses 12-15: Personal requests and final greetings
1verseRemind them to be in subjection to rulers and to authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good work,
2verseto speak evil of no one, not to be contentious, to be gentle, showing all humility toward all men.
3verseFor we were also once foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving various lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another.
4verseBut when the kindness of God our Savior and his love toward mankind appeared,
5versenot 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,
6versewhom he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior;
7versethat being justified by his grace, we might be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life.
8verseThis saying is faithful, and concerning these things I desire that you insist confidently, so that those who have believed God may be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable to men;
9versebut shun foolish questionings, genealogies, strife, and disputes about the law; for they are unprofitable and vain.
10verseAvoid a factious man after a first and second warning,
11verseknowing that such a one is perverted and sinful, being self-condemned.
12verseWhen I send Artemas to you, or Tychicus, be diligent to come to me to Nicopolis, for I have determined to winter there.
13verseSend Zenas the lawyer and Apollos on their journey speedily, that nothing may be lacking for them.
14verseLet our people also learn to maintain good works to meet necessary needs, that they may not be unfruitful.
15verseAll who are with me greet you. Greet those who love us in faith. Grace be with you all. Amen.
Summary of the Main Content
In this chapter, Paul first urges obedience to worldly authorities, along with kindness, and gentleness toward everyone (verses 1-2). He reminds us that we once were foolish and indulged in wrongdoing, but that we have been saved by God’s mercy and compassion (verses 3-7). He emphasizes that salvation is accomplished only by God’s grace. Next, he advises that Christians should devote themselves to good works while avoiding unnecessary arguments and disputes (verses 8-11). Finally, he shares everyday requests and greetings for fellow workers (verses 12-15).
Points to Ponder
- 1. In the society and community where I belong, what does it look like for me to live with obedience and gentleness?
- 2. As someone who has been saved by God’s grace, let’s reflect on whether I practice gratitude and a changed life every day.
- 3. Is my attitude naturally inclined to work for good deeds and pursue peace rather than arguments?
Try Applying It to Me
- Let’s remember God’s mercy and compassion even more deeply, and let’s also make an effort to treat others with kindness and gentleness.
- In our daily lives, let’s seek wisdom to participate in good deeds voluntarily and to avoid unnecessary quarrels.
- Let’s show an example of faith within and beyond the community, and let’s pray so that we can build peaceful and harmonious relationships with people around us.
This is the last chapter of Titus.