Titus 3

Titus 3 continues Paul’s practical instructions to Titus regarding how believers should live in society, focusing on good works, avoiding disputes, and the transformative power of God's grace. The chapter emphasizes obedience to authority, kindness, humility, and the role of God’s mercy in salvation, concluding with a reminder to avoid divisiveness and engage in productive deeds.

Titus 3:1 (NKJV)
Remind them to be subject to rulers and authorities, to obey, to be ready for every good work,

Paul instructs Titus to remind the believers of their duty to be obedient to civil authorities and to comply with laws, as this reflects a life of order and peace. This obedience should not be reluctant but active, being ready for good works. These good works demonstrate the transformative nature of the gospel in their lives, showing the believers' intention to contribute positively to society.

Titus 3:2 (NKJV)
to speak evil of no one, to be peaceable, gentle, showing all humility to all men.

Believers are called to refrain from slander and harmful speech. Instead, they should pursue peace, treating others with gentleness and humility. This attitude reflects the character of Christ, who was meek and lowly, and sets believers apart in a world often filled with hostility. Humility ensures that they relate to others with grace, understanding that all people are made in God's image.

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

Paul reminds Titus that the believers were once no different from the rest of the world. They too had lived in sin, driven by selfish desires and hostile attitudes. This reflection on their past serves to foster humility and compassion, as it reminds them that their transformation was only made possible by God's grace, not by their own merit.

Titus 3:4-5 (NKJV)
But when the kindness and the love of God our Savior toward man appeared, not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us, through the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit,

God's salvation was not a result of human effort or righteous works but purely a result of His mercy. His love and kindness were manifested in the sending of Christ, and salvation came through the spiritual rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit. This highlights that salvation is a gracious act from God, a new beginning that involves cleansing and transformation by His Spirit.

Titus 3:6-7 (NKJV)
whom He poured out on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Savior, that having been justified by His grace we should become heirs according to the hope of eternal life.

The Holy Spirit, who renews believers, was abundantly given through Jesus Christ. Through this outpouring, believers are justified, meaning they are made right with God by grace, not by their own efforts. This grace leads to the hope of eternal life, reminding them that they are not just recipients of mercy but heirs of God’s eternal promises.

Titus 3:8 (NKJV)
This is a faithful saying, and these things I want you to affirm constantly, that those who have believed in God should be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable to men.

Paul stresses the importance of affirming the truth of salvation by grace while also encouraging believers to engage in good works. These works are the natural outcome of faith and are beneficial not only for personal growth but also for society as a whole. Doing good aligns with God's will and brings blessings to others.

Titus 3:9 (NKJV)
But avoid foolish disputes, genealogies, contentions, and strivings about the law; for they are unprofitable and useless.

Believers are warned to avoid getting involved in pointless arguments, especially those concerning genealogies and legalistic debates that often lead to division rather than edification. Such disputes are unproductive and do not contribute to spiritual growth or the advancement of God’s kingdom. Instead, they detract from the call to live a life of love and good works.

Titus 3:10-11 (NKJV)
Reject a divisive man after the first and second admonition, knowing that such a person is warped and sinning, being self-condemned.

Paul instructs Titus to avoid individuals who cause division within the church after they have been warned twice. Such people reveal a rebellious spirit that goes against the unity of the body of Christ. Their behavior is self-condemning, as it shows that their heart is not aligned with the gospel message of peace and love.

Titus 3:12-13 (NKJV)
When I send Artemas to you, or Tychicus, be diligent to come to me at Nicopolis, for I have decided to spend the winter there. Send Zenas the lawyer and Apollos on their journey with haste, that they may lack nothing.

Paul gives personal instructions to Titus regarding the leadership and travel arrangements for others in the ministry. He instructs Titus to join him in Nicopolis after sending Zenas and Apollos on their way. This shows the practical side of Paul's ministry, ensuring that the work continues smoothly while also maintaining close fellowship with his co-workers.

Titus 3:14 (NKJV)
And let our people also learn to maintain good works, to meet urgent needs, that they may not be unfruitful.

Paul urges believers to continue engaging in good works, particularly those that meet pressing needs. By doing so, they avoid living unproductive lives. Good works reflect the fruit of the Spirit at work in them and ensure that their faith is active and vibrant, benefiting others and advancing God’s kingdom.

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

Paul closes the letter with personal greetings and a final blessing of grace. This reinforces the bonds of Christian love and fellowship, showing that the ministry extends beyond local congregations to the broader body of believers who are united in faith and love for Christ.