Titus (Tit)

Book 17 of the NT, having 3 chapters. Written by Paul about AD 64 to Titus, a Greek convert, who he had delegated to oversee the churches on the island of Crete. Time to read: 10 mins.

Key people: Paul, Titus.

Outline. It was a personal letter, containing similar instructions about church leaders as those in 2 Timothy. Paul reminds Titus that his mission on Crete is to ordain elders and outlines the qualities of character that must be evident in the lives of those appointed and in believers in general (Tit 1:5-9). All believers should be developing these attributes too, as well as living by the principles Paul goes on to elaborate to Titus.

Main lesson. “The reason I left you in Crete was that you…”  (Tit 1:5). We don’t know if Titus had failed to attend to Paul’s previous request or it was something Paul had been unable to complete, however, when we are given directives by those over us, we must do what we have been instructed for it is easy to get side tracked, procrastinate or even forget what our calling and ministry is, maybe even thinking we know better.

Key verses and thoughts: * “They claim to know God, but by their actions they deny Him” (Tit 1:16). Jesus said we are not to judge others but we can observe their lives for “by their fruit you will know them” (Mt 7:1,16,20). Although we all do things that are not ‘quite right’ sometimes, it should be the exception rather than a regular way of life. After confession of the sin, we should move ‘onwards and upwards’. Our new life in Christ should be very noticeably different than before we met Jesus, not being the result of following a set of rules but rather the outcome of a close relationship with our redeemer. What do those observing my life see – a transformation from the old ‘me’ to a better, Christ-like person? It is not our profession but our progression in righteousness that counts.  

* Paul gives instructions to various groups on specific qualities and areas of their lives that needed to be addressed (Tit 2:1-10). Christianity is practical. God made humanity with a spirit (that at salvation connects with His Spirit), a soul (the mental, emotional dimension) and the body (the physical part we see). He is interested, and has made provision, for each area to be renewed and made whole.

The church should provide balanced teaching which addresses all aspects of human life, passing on valid fundamental principles about how to relate to and nurture each other as in today’s largely dysfunctional society where many of the basic guidelines for harmonious and wise living (according to God’s curriculum) are seldom shared, let alone passed on to the general populous. Likewise when we disciple others we should also give instruction in non-spiritual areas that need attention, so they become whole, well-balanced people, being mindful that we all have our blemishes and weaknesses. As we are all ‘a work in progress’, we should also be learning from those who are further advanced in the various facets of life. What area is my ‘construction zone’ at present?

* “God saved us by His mercy, not because of the righteous things we had done” (Tit 3:4-8). He initiated salvation and it is totally His doing, we only had to say ‘yes’ to Jesus. However, from that time on we are required to put in the effort – “The grace of God...teaches us to say ‘no’ to ungodliness and worldly passions...” (Tit 2:12-14). He shows us what is required to live a life pleasing to God and it is up to us to utilize self-discipline to starve the old nature and feed the new. It is a partnership with God. He doesn’t just point out what we should or shouldn’t do but gives the Holy Spirit to help us, provided we are motivated and willing. Do I listen to and obey the inner conviction of the Spirit?

See also: body/soul/spirit, character, elders, Titus.