TITUS 1

TITUS TASKED WITH ESTABLISHING HONEST + RIGHTEOUS LEADERS IN CRETE  

Paul introduces the purpose of his letter, calling Titus to share the truth of God and hope of eternal life. Recognizing that Titus is in the Greek island of Crete, Paul refers to God as “the God who does not lie,” showing the contrast between God’s truth and the false gods commonly worshiped in Greece. Paul desires for Titus to share the truth of God and reveal the news of Jesus to the people in Crete. Paul emphasizes the idea that God sent Jesus, the physical manifestation of God’s Word, at the perfect time.

Paul begins to detail the specific tasks he has for Titus, hoping he will bring order to the church in Crete. He assigns Titus to appoint righteous elders, men who are leaders in the church, outlining admirable qualities of these men, including being hospitable, lovers of good, self-controlled, and disciplined. These leaders are instructed to hold firm to what is trustworthy by preaching the truth and confront those who contradict the truth.

Many of the people in Crete claim to know God, but their talk is empty. Paul instructs Titus to correct the Jewish-Christians who are teaching incorrect doctrine, most likely that one must become Jewish before becoming a follower of Jesus. Instead of trusting in Jesus for salvation many of the people in Crete look to customs or law for righteousness.

Paul mentions that even the prophets from Crete speak against their own people, calling them evil liars and lazy gluttons. Titus is called to replace myths and false beliefs with the truth of Jesus. Instead of honoring God with their actions, the people of Crete claim to believe in God, but live in a way that is detestable and disobedient.

Titus 1:9 - He must hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught, so that he may be able to give instruction in sound doctrine and also to rebuke those who contradict it.