Titus
Summary
Paul instructs Titus to remind the believers to be subject to principalities and powers, to obey magistrates, and to be ready for every good work. He reflects on the former state of believers, foolish, disobedient, and deceived, contrasting it with the "kindness and love of God our Saviour" which appeared not because of works of righteousness, but through His mercy. Paul emphasizes the "washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit" through which believers are justified and become heirs of eternal life. He concludes with advice to avoid foolish questions and genealogies, and gives personal instructions regarding Zenas and Apollos, emphasizing the need for believers to maintain good works for necessary uses.
Put them in mind to be subject to principalities and powers, to obey magistrates, to be ready to every good work,
To speak evil of no one, to be no brawlers, but gentle, showing all gentleness to all people.
For we ourselves also were sometimes foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving various lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another.
But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward people appeared,
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 Spirit;
Which He shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour;
That being justified by His grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life.
This is a faithful saying, and these things I desire that you affirm constantly, that those who have believed in God might be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable to people.
But avoid foolish questions, and genealogies, and contentions, and strivings about the law; for they are unprofitable and vain.
A person who is a heretic after the first and second admonition reject;
Knowing that he who is such is subverted, and sins, being condemned of himself.
When I shall send Artemas to you, or Tychicus, be diligent to come to me to Nicopolis: for I have determined there to winter.
Bring Zenas the lawyer and Apollos on their journey diligently, that nothing be wanting to them.
And let ours also learn to maintain good works for necessary uses, that they be not unfruitful.
All who are with me greet you. Greet those who love us in the faith. Grace be with you all. Amen.