Titus Chapter 3

From The Open Bible Project

3:1 Remind them to be in subjection to rulers and to authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good work,

• (1) He declares particularly and separately that which he said before generally, noting out certain main and principal duties which men owe to men, and especially subjects to their magistrates.

3:2 to speak evil of no one, not to be contentious, to be gentle, showing all humility toward all men.

3:3 For we were also once foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving various lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another.

• (2) He confirms again the former exhortation by propounding the free benefit of our regeneration, the symbol of which is our baptism. (Ed.)

3:4 But when the kindness of God our Savior and his love toward mankind appeared,

3:5 not 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,

• (a) Literally, "of works which are done in righteousness": and this passage fully refutes the doctrine of meritorious works.
• (b) Which the power of the Holy Spirit works.

3:6 whom he poured out on us richly, through Jesus Christ our Savior;

3:7 that, being justified by his grace, we might be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life.

3:8 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 to men;

• (3) Again with great earnestness emphasises how we ought to give ourselves to true godliness and avoid all vain questions, which serve to nothing but to cause strife and debate.
• (c) Give themselves earnestly to good works.

3:9 but shun foolish questionings, genealogies, strife, and disputes about the law; for they are unprofitable and vain.

3:10 Avoid a factious man after a first and second warning;

• (4) The ministers of the word must at once cast off heretics, that is, those who stubbornly and seditiously disquiet the Church, and will pay no attention to ecclesiastical admonitions.

3:11 knowing that such a one is perverted, and sins, being self-condemned.

3:12 When I send Artemas to you, or Tychicus, be diligent to come to me to Nicopolis, for I have determined to winter there.

• (5) Last of all, he writes a word or two regarding personal matters, and commends certain men.

3:13 Send Zenas, the lawyer, and Apollos on their journey speedily, that nothing may be lacking for them.

3:14 Let our people also learn to maintain good works for necessary uses, that they may not be unfruitful.

3:15 All who are with me greet you. Greet those who love us in faith. Grace be with you all. Amen.