Titus 2

David Lipscomb Commentary On Titus 2Tit 2:1 But speak thou the things which befit the sound doctrine:—[The false teachers were promulgating doctrines at variance with the teaching of the inspired Paul and his fellow apostles, and were also by their example and lives fatally lowering the standard of the Christian life. It was to the evil moral influ­ence of these teachers that the attention of Titus was espe­cially directed. These false doctrines were bringing forth already their sure fruit in the form of a life utterly unlike the pattern set by the Master. In contrast to this misleading doctrine, Titus is directed to exhort the various ages and different sexes, the bond and the free to live such lives as will bring no dishonor upon the name and cause of Christ. The strictly practical nature of these charges is remarkable. He presses home to the various ages and ranks the necessity of a quiet and useful life.

The sound doctrine by which Titus was directed to regulate his teaching stands in clear contrast to the sickly, unhealthy teaching— fanciful and false— of the misleading teachers of Crete.]Titus 2:2that aged men be temperate,—Not given to excess in anything. It is usually applied to drinking intoxicating spirits, and it is right to apply it there as well as to other things, but it means that we ought not to go to excess in anything.

Why was this applicable to old men more than to others? Sometimes people give way to excesses in youth when the flesh is strong and its lusts almost uncontrollable, but after they grow older and the will power is stronger they learn self­control. Later they pass into a second childhood, the will power fails, and they often fall into the same excesses they did in youth. The people of whom Paul was writing had in youth given way to excesses of all kinds. They were babes in Christ and needed admonishing on many points.grave,—Reputable and serious demeanor, not given to levity or gay manners, but sober in speech, gesture, and dress.sober-minded,—Refraining from everything that is harmful and injurious, and using that which will develop the faculties and members to the highest degree of activity and efficiency.sound in faith,—Cheerful, contented trust in God should be cultivated— a confidence that God overrules all, and that “ all things work together for good, even to them that are called according to his purpose.” (Romans 8:28.) A confidence that God still overrules all things to the good of those who love him should aid all God’ s children to look with a cheerful, contented spirit upon the affairs of this world, and thus drive out all bitterness and anxiety about the misanthropic condi­tion that often beclouds and embitters life.in love,—Not bitter or vindictive. Christian love keeps the heart young and tender and sincere, and the aged illustrate its power through advancing in wisdom and kindness.in patience:—They have to bear with many infirmities of the body with declining faculties; but cheerful patience must be more than a dull acquiescence with the inevitable; it must be cheerful acceptance of suffering that patience may have her perfect work in the closing days of life.Titus 2:3that aged women likewise be reverent in demeanor,—Elderly women by their very deportment, regulated by the will of God, were to teach the young women lessons of truth, faith, and love. [Paul, faithful to the instructions of the Holy Spirit, sets forth their position as fellow heirs in the church of Christ, and reminds them of their duties in the company of believers.

They must remember that the position to which Christ had called them in his kingdom was not without grave responsibilities. There was a great and im­portant work for them to do.]not slanderers—There was danger that with the growing influence of years they would become bitter in their feelings and on light grounds bring accusations that were not true.nor enslaved to much wine,—The women of Crete were given to wine drinking.

Observe the fitness of the phrase “ enslaved.” The drunkard is thoroughly the slave of his appetite. (2 Peter 2:18-19.) The religion of Jesus Christ has created a moral state lifting women out of their evil practices.teachers of that which is good;—They are to be teachers by their example. The aged naturally are teachers to the young. They should be careful to teach only what is good by either precept or example. [This does not mean that they should be public instructors. (1 Timothy 2:11-12.)]Titus 2:4that they may train the young women to love their hus­bands,—Not only must they love their husbands, but they must do to them what love requires at their hands. She loves her husband who is his truest helper in attaining a true and holy life. [This would be a matter requiring long time and patience, and would follow as the result of the steady, faithful performance of those quiet, everyday duties to which God had in his providence called them.]to love their children,—To love their children is to “ nur­ture them in the chastening and admonition of the Lord.” (Ephesians 6:4.) Love is the fulfilling of the law. Love to the child is to do what the law requires the mother to do for the child. Often mothers from a selfish feeling spoil their children.

They deceive themselves, thinking it is from love. The Scriptures deal in practical questions, not mere senti­ments.

Solomon said: “ He that spareth his rod hateth his son; but he that loveth him chasteneth him betimes.” (Proverbs 13:24.) That is, he that fails to restrain his son and train him in the right way hates him. Many parents will be made to realize at the last day that they were the worst enemies of their children and had led them to ruin; that their mis­taken and selfish feeling for them was hatred and not love.Titus 2:5to be sober minded, chaste,—Well-balanced state of mind resulting from habitual self-restraint, which gives no grounds for evil reports.workers at home,—That they be keepers or managers at home; keep a neat, attractive house that will make her hus­band and children love home. Christian women should be the best of housekeepers and should be models to all who know them.kind, being in subjection to their own husbands,—She must be good and true in her character and recognize that God has made her husband head, and she should take care that, as far as in her lies, the law of subordination should be strictly obeyed.that the word of God be not blasphemed:—These words refer to the clauses enforcing home duties. To fail to do them would cause the word of the Lord which commands them to be blasphemed— spoken against. Life is made up of small and simple deeds. Character is composed of many simple qualities, and the honor of the name of the Lord is bound up with the faithful discharge by Christians of the simple duties of life.

The family is the chief seat, and often the main test of Christian character, and it is the distinctive feature of humility as ordained of God.Christians are all built together as one body, sealed and cemented together by the blood and Spirit of Christ, each to help all others to grow into the body of the Lord Jesus Christ, a dwelling place of God, through the Spirit on earth. Now, brethren and sisters, between ourselves and God, how much of this helping the weaker and tempted brethren and sisters have we done?

Whenever we have left others, especially the weakest and humblest ones, to strive alone, we have injured them, but we have more seriously injured ourselves. When one member sins all suffer. The spiritual ties are stronger than the fleshly ones. Titus 2:6the younger men likewise exhort to be sober-minded:—The tendency of youth is to lightheartedness and frolic that lead to sin. While the Christian religion does not deny the enjoyment of life to youth, it would hold in proper restraint that they be sober-minded, and act as becomes Christians. Because the true happiness here and hereafter is promoted by restraining the tendencies to excess in lightness and frivolity.Titus 2:7in all things showing thyself an ensample of good works;—While warning others he was to show himself a pattern in all he taught by example as well as precept. A teacher ought to practice what he teaches— to preserve his own char­acter for sincerity and honesty, and that his example may be added to the precepts in his teaching.in thy doctrine showing uncorruptness,—His preaching was to be in maintaining the teaching of Christ as God gave it, unmixed with the teachings and philosophies of men. He must in all those points of life which are connected with his teaching show a purity and freedom from all interested motives; he must be above seeking for popular applause, thus avoiding the things the serious hearer could condemn.gravity,—In his public teaching and private intercourse with the people he must never forget he was the teacher of the message of eternal life, and that he must have a dignified man­ner that vindicates his profound seriousness of purpose and devotion.Titus 2:8sound speech, that cannot be condemned;—In his teach­ing he was to use sound speech such as produced a good in­fluence, conformable to the word of God.that he that is of the contrary part may be ashamed,—That it may be so good in its influence that those who oppose may be ashamed of the opposition [when he finds neither in the life nor in the teaching that he can fairly criticize as hurtful to anyone].having no evil thing to say of us.—[The “ of us” associates Paul and others with Titus. The evil thing which might have been said against Titus in reality would be spoken against Paul and the other apostles, for they all taught the same thing.

The teaching and life of Jesus are so pure and holy, so unselfish, and so full of goodness that no one can oppose or deny it. The pure life of the child of God will put to shame opposition to Christ.]Titus 2:9 Exhort servants to be in subjection to their own masters,—Slavery of a bitter form existed at the time of Jesus and the apostles.

While the fundamental principles of the teaching of Jesus Christ are contrary to the principles and practice of slavery, Jesus and the Holy Spirit did not propose to violently break existing relations or disrupt the institutions of earth. It sanctified and softened all relations of life and gradually corrected the evil through the Spirit of Christ. Slaves were held by virtue of the political governments. The Christian religion recognized both parties to the relation as Christians and brethren. It did not break the relationship, but put into action a spirit of love, gentleness, and fidelity that melted and brought about the destruction of the relation.and to be well-pleasing to them in all things;—The servants were to be faithful and obedient, to seek fidelity of service to please them well [especially they should study to make their service acceptable to the master, avoiding a contrary spirit, or the disposition to set up their own will against the will of the master. It is obvious that “ all things” is here limited to things not contrary to God’s law.

According to the principle, “ We must obey God rather than men.” (Acts 5:29.)]not gainsaying;—They should obey cheerfully, willingly, without sullenness; not thwarting or setting themselves against their master’ s plans, or desires, or orders.Titus 2:10not purloining,—Taking little things which they think are so small as to be unnoticed. Stealing is a sin to which slaves are especially liable.

They reason that they have labored for it without pay and there is no harm in their taking a portion of their own labor. While this seems plausi­ble, the Holy Spirit forbids it.but showing all good fidelity;—[Many slaves in the days of Paul were entrusted with the property of their masters as merchants, physicians, and artists. Thus they had many ways of showing their honesty. It was in their power to defraud them by embezzlement, or to waste the property, or to allow it to be wasted without check or rebuke. Servants were to have family interests at heart, and they were thus to com­mend themselves to the love and confidence of their masters.]that they may adorn the doctrine of God our Saviour in all things.—They are to show all fidelity in their position that they may adorn the teaching that God has given to the world and commend it by their conduct to their masters. [A slave cheerfully accepting his hard lot, and striving to please and advance the interest of his earthly master only for the love of Christ, must have been in those days a silent, yet a most powerful influence which could so mold a character so de­graded that scarcely were they considered to rank among men at all. “ They were ranked as possessions just like sheep and cattle.” ]Titus 2:11 For the grace of God hath appeared,—God’ s favor of love to man appeared in the person of Jesus Christ. The power of God was manifested and so was the law, but not fully and clearly his love till Jesus came.bringing salvation to all men,—Salvation is open to all men, but man accepts or rejects as he sees fit.

The choice is with him. Jesus opened the door, pointed out the way, and invited man to return to the Father’ s home and to the bless­ings he enjoyed in heaven.

This is what Jesus did for us.Titus 2:12instructing us,—[Educating us by a life of sad experi­ences. God’ s grace is in truth a stern discipline of self-denial and training for higher and better things.]to the intent that, denying ungodliness—There is a feeling in the flesh of rebellion against God. To restrain this feeling and bring it under subjection to God is to deny ungodliness.and worldly lusts,—The lusts for the fleshly, worldly things— lust of the flesh, lust of the pride of life, lust for power, for riches and honor. To deny ourselves these— to turn from them— is what the Lord teaches us.we should live soberly—To live soberly is to discharge the duty one owes to himself. He is not to give way to appetites, passions, and lusts, but to so live that by a moderate use of his faculties he will develop them to the highest point of strength and activity. He must do his duty to himself before he can do his duty to others.

He who does not live soberly cannot live righteously. He cannot do his duty to his fellow man until he discharges those he owes to himself.

A drunken man cannot do his duty to his wife, to his children, to his neighbors, to his God; but the man who properly controls himself can discharge his duty to all others.and righteously—To live righteously is faithfully to dis­charge our duty to our fellow men in all the relations of life.and godly—To live godly is to discharge our duties to God. The obligation and duties we owe in these several relations interweave into and overlap each other. They depend upon each other, yet they are distinct and cover man’ s whole duty.in this present world;—In the physical world God has or­dained that men shall live by food and exercise. The soul takes food in approaching God in worship, which consists in the earnest and devout study of God’ s word, in prayer, songs of praise to God, and in continuing “ stedfastly in the apostles’ teaching and fellowship, in the breaking of bread and the prayers.” (Acts 2:42.) This food gives no strength without it is assimilated to the wants of the spiritual works which consists in restraining our appetites and passions within proper bounds, in acting kindly toward all men, in showing kindness to those in need, and in actively carrying the word of life to all in darkness. The doing of this spiritual labor in turn gives appetite for earnest and true worship and enables the soul to appreciate its benefits. The best preparation the child ever receives for profitable attendance on the Lord’ s day service is attained through fidelity in discharging the duties they owe to their fellow men and to God through the week.

It enables them to live soberly, righteously, and godly. As in this world, so in the spiritual world, food gives strength to labor, labor gives appetite for food, and assimilates the food received to the nourishment and growth of the spiritual body.Titus 2:13looking for the blessed hope and appearing of the glory of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ;—As an in­centive to and reward for this faithful discharge of his duties, the faithful Christian is to look forward to that blessed hope and glorious appearing of the great God and our Savior Jesus Christ.

He told them he would come again in the clouds of heaven, and that his appearing would be a glorious one. (Mark 13:26-27.) He will come to redeem from the grave and crown with everlasting glory and righteousness those that were faithful to him.Titus 2:14who gave himself for us,—The fundamental idea of the bloody sacrifice is that he for whom the sacrifice is made deserved death for his sins and the death of the victim is accepted in lieu of that of the sinner. The animals were accepted as temporary and typical sacrifices for sin. They were temporary, as they took away finally no sin, but only freed them from it for a season. The sin was rolled forward and the sinner was held guiltless until the day of atonement, when there was a remembrance of the sins again, and a sin offering was made for it anew. It was typical in as much as it pointed forward to the sacrifice of the Son of God, the shed­ding of his blood for the sins of the world. The blood of Jesus alone can take away sins.

So all sins previous to the shedding of his blood were rolled forward until he came and took away sins once for all. Then there was no more re­membrance of sins that had been forgiven.

To shed his blood for sin was to give his life for the life of the sinner. Jesus did this for man. Man had sinned, sold himself to the devil, brought himself under bondage to him as his servant, became subject to death, received the wages of sin so that he died.that he might redeem us from all iniquity,—To redeem from iniquity is to lead from all wrongdoing to our fellow men, and just to the extent that he delivers us from wrongdoing he delivers us from sin and suffering.and purify unto himself a people for his own possession,—[As Israel was represented as God’ s chosen people, his pecu­liar treasure (Exodus 19:5-6; Deuteronomy 7:6; Deuteronomy 14:2), so Christians are Christ’ s own possession, given him by the Father (John 6:37; John 17:6-8), forming the body of which he is the head (Ephesians 1:22-23; Colossians 1:18), and made to him “an elect race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’ s own possession, that ye may show forth the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvellous light: who in time past were no people, but now are the people of God: who had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy” (1 Peter 2:9-10).]zealous of good works.—Doing the works of God. They are good because they conform to the likeness of God and make us good to man. Nothing brings good to man except the things commanded by God. To do them honors God and benefits man.

God’ s honor and man’ s good are joined to­gether in the work he does. The humble can do good works as well as the mighty.

Indeed, exalted positions carry with them strong temptations, of which we in the humbler spheres of life know nothing. God requires us to strive day by day to do something that will help others. If we do so from the right motives, do it in the name of the Lord, whether it bene­fits others or not, we shall save our own souls because in so doing we fit ourselves for a home with God.Titus 2:15 These things speak and exhort and reprove—The truths were to be made to bear upon the conscience and to result in right conduct. He enjoins to dwell on the doctrine of edifi­cation and never to grow weary because it cannot be too much inculcated. He likewise bids him to add the spurs of ex­hortation and reproof for men are not sufficiently admonished as to their duty if they be not solemnly urged to the perform­ance of their responsibility.with all authority. Let no man despise thee.—[The exhor­tations and reproofs must be characterized by authority so that none might regard lightly the apostolic instruction. He must speak with the authority which comes from a knowledge of the divine will and of the saving purpose of God.] Titus Chapter TwoVerse 1 DeWelt said that “The care of individual members of the church is the subject of Titus 2."[1] Throughout there is a strong emphasis upon the family which is the basic unit of every worthwhile society ever to appear on earth. The five particular classes of individuals mentioned are aged men, aged women, young married women, young men, and slaves. Despite the fact of Paul’s emphasis in this chapter being upon correct moral and ethical behavior, there are nevertheless doctrinal declarations of immeasurable significance. Plummer was incorrect in the declaration that sound doctrine “relates almost exclusively to conduct”;[2] because it is only in the dogmatic, doctrinal and theological frame of reference that acceptable human behavior is possible. All of the practical admonitions of this chapter are related “to the doctrine of God our Saviour” (Titus 2:10), “the grace of God” (Titus 2:11-12), “the Second Advent of Christ” (Titus 2:13), “the atoning ransom of the blood of Jesus Christ” (Titus 2:14), and the “purification unto himself’ (conversion) of the redeemed, Titus 2:14, and also the bond of unity in Jesus Christ of all the faithful who are the Lord’s “own possession” (Titus 2:14)! Therefore, the notion that “there is scarcely a hint in the whole chapter” of Christian doctrine must be rejected. [1] Don DeWelt, Paul’s Letter to Timothy and Titus (Joplin: College Press, 1961), p. 154. [2] Alfred Plummer, One Volume New Testament Commentary (Grand Rapids, Michigan: Baker Book House, 1972), in loco. But speak thou the things which befit the sound doctrine: (Titus 2:1) “The word rendered thou is emphatic."[3] The Cretans may be liars and some of the believers empty talkers, but Timothy is to teach the sound doctrine. It is “the proper ethical consequences which must ever flow from the Christian truth”[4] which Paul was about to stress, but Titus must never leave off teaching the sound doctrine. Everything depends upon that. “Titus should instruct them in the behavior that accords with belief."[5] Although Titus was addressed directly, “Through him Paul was instructing the whole church of Crete”;[6] and even beyond that he was instructing the church of all ages to come. Sound doctrine… is described as “wholesome” or “healthful”; but perhaps the best definition is “Scriptural, accurate and dependable.” As Tasker said: It is hardly correct to claim as many scholars do, that the writer merely denounces heresy, for in this case he clearly believes that truth is the best antidote for error.[7][3] J. Glenn Gould, Beacon Bible Commentary, Vol. IX (Kansas City: Beacon Hill Press, 1969), p. 676. [4] Ibid. [5] Alan G. Nute, A New Testament Commentary (Grand Rapids, Michigan: Zondervan Publishing House, 1969), p. 527. [6] Wilbur B. Wallis, Wycliffe New Testament Commentary (Chicago: Moody Press, 1971), p. 886. [7] R. V. G. Tasker, Tyndale New Testament Commentaries, The Pastorals (Grand Rapids, Michigan: Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Company, 1957), p. 191. Verse 2 that aged men be temperate, grave, sober-minded, sound in faith, in love, in patience:The aged men… “This is not the elders in an official sense, but simply the old men."[8]Temperate … means not given to excess in anything. While common enough as far as information about it is concerned, this virtue is often absent in believers. A life undistorted by any excessive indulgences of any kind is the thing required. Grave… “Gravity must never be confused with gloominess."[9] A calm, sensible and decorous attitude, or demeanor, in all places and at all times is enjoined. “Monkey business” and “clowning around” are forbidden by this. Sober-minded … While mentioned here in the instructions to older men, this virtue “is demanded of three of the groups which follow, and of all in Titus 2:12."[10]Sound in faith… “Faith here is objective,"[11] meaning that older men should cling to the fundamental doctrines of Christianity. This is another appearance of Paul’s famed triads (1 Corinthians 13:13; 1 Thessalonians 1:3, etc.). Here “love and patience” are bracketed with faith. “In these three lies the sum of Christian perfections."[12] Spence has these beautiful lines: It is with “faith” that we worship God; no prayer, no work of piety can be severed from faith. “Love” spreads its wings over all our duties to our neighbor; and “patience” must ever go hand in hand with “faith” and “love."[13]Let it be noted that Christian doctrine is by no means slighted in this chapter of practical admonitions. The Christian life is not merely commendable behavior, but such conduct as it relates to the great principles of the truth of God. As Zerr said, “Sound in the faith means to be true to the word of God which is the basis of faith (Romans 10:17)."[14] In this lies the great principle that all ethical behavior, if it is to have any meaning at all, must be anchored in authority that is external to man. Without the guiding restraint of that external authority, morality is progressively downgraded until it disappears altogether. [8] J. R. Dummelow, Commentary on the Holy Bible (New York: The Macmillan Company, 1937), p. 1008. [9] R. V. G. Tasker, op. cit., p. 191. [10] Alan G. Nute, op. cit., p. 527. [11] R. C. H. Lenski, Interpretation of St. Paul’s Epistles … Titus (Minneapolis: Augsburg Press, 1964), p. 910. [12] H. D. M. Spence, Ellicott’s Commentary on the Holy Bible, Vol. VIII (Grand Rapids, Michigan: Zondervan Publishing House, 1970), p. 155. [13] Ibid. [14] E. M. Zerr, Bible Commentary (Marion, Indiana: Cogdill Foundation, 1954), p. 203. Verse 3 that aged women likewise be reverent in demeanor, not slanderers nor enslaved to much wine, teachers of that which is good;As in “older men” above, the instruction here is to all older women in the congregation. Reverent in demeanor… This is one of the most beautiful phrases in the New Testament, fittingly applied here to that class of godly older women in the Lord’s church. Concerning the word here rendered “reverent,” Tasker has this: Dibelius gives parallels (of the word) meaning “consecrated as priestesses,” an idea well captured by Lock, who gives the meaning, “they are to carry into daily life the demeanor of a priestess in a temple."[15]Not slanderers… This means “not false accusers,” and is translated from a word which is one of the names of the devil, who is called “the accuser” of the brethren. Not enslaved to much wine… As Lipscomb said: The women of Crete were given to wine drinking. Observe the fitness of the term “enslaved.” The drunkard is thoroughly the slave of his appetite.[16]Here is an indication of what is meant by the term “wine” as used in the New Testament; it was a drink that had the power to enslave, and this is impossible of application to mere grape juice. Teachers of that which is good… As Tasker said, “This cannot refer to public teaching, which was in any case mainly the responsibility of the elders, but must refer to ministry in the home.” [17][15] R. V. G. Tasker, op. cit., p. 192. [16] David Lipscomb, New Testament Commentaries, Titus (Nashville: The Gospel Advocate Company, 1976), p. 272. [17] R. V. G. Tasker, op. cit., p. 193. Verse 4 that they may train the young women to love their husbands, to love their children,Significantly, the elders were not entrusted with the training of young married women, a function that pertained to the godly older women in the congregation. There are seven qualities to be instilled in the younger women, two mentioned in this verse, five in the next. They are: (1) husband-lovers, (2) children-lovers, (3) sober-minded, (4) chaste, (5) workers at home, (6) kind, and (7) in subjection to their own husbands. At first glance it seems hardly necessary to speak of training one to love spouse or children; but as Ward noted: Love does not always flow out of a person, even a wife and mother, as from a mountain spring. Love in the family requires thoughtfulness, and the mother has to work at it. Paul recognized this, and the older could inspire the younger[18]ENDNOTE: [18] Ronald A. Ward, Commentary on 1,2Timothy and Titus (Waco: Word Books, Publisher, 1974), p. 253. Verse 5 to be sober-minded, chaste, workers at home, kind, being in subjection to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed:Sober-minded… As noted above, this quality is actually to be manifested by all Christians. It means having all faculties under control, well-balanced, even tempered, and realizing the importance and seriousness of life. Chaste … The original word here may be translated “pure”; “but the ASV has done rightly in preferring the word which is relevant to sex. Paul used the same word in 2 Corinthians 11:2."[19]Workers at home… The word from which this is derived may mean either “workers” or “keepers” at home. Some radical critics have gone so far as to say that “The only authority for this word is Soranus of Ephesus, a medical writer, not earlier than the second century”;[20] the object of such an assertion, to be sure, being that of questioning the Pauline authorship of Titus. The allegation is false, of course, White pointing out that “The verb is found in Clement of Rome,"[21] who lived in the first century and was identified by Origen as Paul’s companion mentioned in Philippians 4:3![22]Kind … This is one of the homely virtues that blesses mankind as much as any other. Being in subjection to their own husbands… This is fully in keeping with the New Testament teaching that the husband is the head of the family; and, through the centuries, those societies in which women have honored this divine injunction have invariably elevated women to higher and higher places of honor, respect and protection. In many cultures where this ethic is dishonored, women have ultimately been reduced to the status of chattels, as they were in the pagan culture of Paul’s day. The behavior here enjoined proved to be the way up for womankind; and the opposite of it will doubtless prove to be the way down. In case the older women should not have been successful in inculcating these noble virtues in the younger women, as Paul admonished, the apostle was sure that the word of God would “be blasphemed.” “So much depends on the women, in great part on the young women."[23] The world still judges Christianity by the character of the young women produced by the church. [19] Ibid. [20] Newport J. D. White, Expositor’s Greek New Testament, Vol. IV (Grand Rapids, Michigan: Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Company, 1967), p. 192. [21] Ibid. [22] Encyclopaedia Britannica (Chicago: William Benton, Publisher, 1961), Vol. 5, p. 793. [23] R. C. H. Lenski, op. cit., p. 913. Verse 6 the younger men likewise exhort to be sober-minded:Paul did not here skimp the advice to young men. As Spain noted, the word “likewise” may be construed as pertaining to “all the injunctions given in verses 1-10."[24] “Sober-minded” is therefore a synecdoche for the entire list of applicable injunctions. ENDNOTE: [24] Carl Spain, Commentary on 1,2Timothy and Titus (Austin, Texas: The R. B. Sweet Company, 1970), p. 179. Verse 7 in all things showing thyself an ensample of good works; in thy doctrine showing uncorruptness, gravity,This entire verse reiterates instructions already given to others, above; but here is the additional thought that Titus is to exemplify in himself the conduct, demeanor and virtues enjoined upon others. As Gould well said, “It is evident that Paul is as fully concerned with Titus’ teaching as with his conduct."[25]Gravity… See under Titus 2:2. ENDNOTE: [25] J. Glenn Gould, op. cit., p. 680. Verse 8 sound speech, that cannot be condemned; that he that is of the contrary part may be ashamed, having no evil thing to say of us.He that is of the contrary part … Wherever truth is preached, “he that is of the contrary part” always appears. It cannot be that Satan will allow the word of God to be preached without opposition. The gospel minister, and all Christians, must ever keep this in mind and so speak, and so live, that the enemy may be ashamed to speak against them. Verse 9 Exhort servants to be in subjection to their own masters, and to be well-pleasing to them in all things; not gainsaying, not purloining, but showing all good fidelity; that they may adorn the doctrine of God our Saviour in all things.Well-pleasing in all things … “It is probable here that Paul was thinking of Christian slaves with Christian masters."[26] As Lipscomb said, “It is obvious that `all things’ is here limited to things not contrary to God’s law."[27]Gainsaying … means “talking back,” with a view to thwarting, or criticizing, the master’s will. Purloining… “The particular form of theft implied is the abstraction or retention for one’s self of a part of something entrusted to one’s care."[28] Luke used the same word with reference to Ananias and Sapphira inActs 5:2,3. That they may adorn the doctrine of God… The lot of a Christian slave was as nearly intolerable as possible. Without anything except the bare necessities for existence, slaves toiled continually without pay, without vacation, often even without any appreciation on the part of their masters. They had no legal, or natural rights of any kind. When they became they were allowed to die, unless the master thought it profitable to have them cured. Cruel and unjust punishments were often endured by them.

Yet, even in such a condition, Paul speaks of their “adorning” the doctrine of God. The service of a slave was elevated to a higher plane. All that he did, he did it “as unto the Lord,” and he would in no wise lose his reward. For more lengthy discussion of the problem of human slavery, as encountered by the primitive church, see under reciprocal relations in Ephesians and Colossians. Let it be noted that " Titus 2:9-10 are not given as suggestions, but as imperatives of Christian conduct."[29][26] Ibid. [27] David Lipscomb, op. cit., p. 275. [28] Newport J. D. White, op. cit., p. 193. [29] Don DeWelt, op. cit., p. 162. Verse 11 For the grace of God hath appeared, bringing salvation to all men,This is a reference to the Incarnation, the First Advent of the Son of God, whose visitation upon our planet came directly and solely from the grace of God. With his birth at Bethlehem, it was appropriate to say that salvation had indeed been brought to all men. As Simeon said: Now lettest thou thy servant depart, Lord, According to thy word, in peace; For mine eyes have seen thy salvation, Which thou hast prepared before the face of all peoples (Luke 2:29-30). When Simeon said this, all men had not been saved; and at the time of Paul’s writing here, nor at any time ever, was it ever true that all men are saved. Yet God has established the charter of human redemption in dimensions large enough to accomplish the salvation of every man ever born on earth. The mystery of why so many are still unsaved is not ours to unravel. Bringing salvation to all men… As Spence commented: This is another of those hard sayings which have been pressed into the service of that kindly but erring school of expositors which shuts its eyes to the contemplation of the many unmistakable sayings which warn the impenitent and hardened sinner of the sad doom of eternal death.[30]ENDNOTE: [30] H. D. M. Spence, op. cit., p. 258. Verse 12 instructing us, to the extent that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly and righteously and godly in this present world;It is the grace of God (through the gospel) which instructs men regarding those conditions which must be fulfilled by men in order to partake of that grace; and rejection of the instructions is equivalent to the rejection of the grace. Both positively and negatively the conditions are plainly laid out. Denying ungodliness… This refers to the denial in one’s life of irreligion. Salvation is promised to the religious persons who seek and find the true way of the Lord. The person who boasts that “I am not religious” has already forfeited the grace of God as it pertains to him. Such persons have “fallen short of it” (Hebrews 12:15). And worldly lusts … The sins of the flesh must be renounced. Even an apostle “buffeted his body” to bring it under subjection to the will of Christ. This is “where the rubber meets the road.” All of the evils that perplex humanity in very large part are due to the unbridled seeking on the part of unregenerated men to fulfill the lustful appetites of their bodies. The true doctrine of Christ confronts the problems squarely, enabling the Christian, with divine help, to overcome. There can never be any hope for any such thing as peace and tranquillity upon this earth as long as human lusts are unsubdued. Soberly… righteously.., godly… As Barackman said, “Guthrie suggested that soberly, righteously, and godly' might be taken to mean the right kind of action toward ourselves, toward our neighbors, and toward God."[31]ENDNOTE: [31] Paul F. Barakman, The Epistles of Timothy and Titus (Grand Rapids, Michigan Baker Book House, 1962), p. 144. Verse 13 looking for the blessed hope and appearing of the glory of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ;Appearing... The two Advents are in <a href="/bible/parallel/TIT/2/11" class="green-link">Titus 2:11</a> <a href="/bible/parallel/TIT/2/13" class="green-link">Titus 2:13</a>. In <a href="/bible/parallel/TIT/2/11" class="green-link">Titus 2:11</a>, it was the appearing of the grace of God in the First Advent of our Lord, and here it is the final appearing in the Second Advent when Christ will judge the quick and the dead. The first of this twofold epiphany is past, being the earthly life of our Lord; whereas the one in <a href="/bible/parallel/TIT/2/13" class="green-link">Titus 2:13</a> is future. It pertains to the glory of Christ which shall be revealed to all men at the time of his coming and resurrection. Looking for the blessed hope ... With these words it is clear "that ethical behavior is inspired by theological hope."[32] All of the excellent rules for living laid down earlier in this chapter are meaningless without that relationship between Christ and his followers on earth who are walking as he commanded and expectantly awaiting that time when the skies shall be bright with his appearing. The glory of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ ... Despite the usual accuracy of the ASV, it appears to this student that the translators missed it here. The proper rendition of the phrase is as given in the ASV margin, the RSV, Weymouth and Goodspeed, thus: The glory of our great God and Saviour Jesus Christ. Lenski said flatly: "Jesus Christ is here called our God and Saviour. One person is referred to and not two."[33]Of course, many scholars support the translation as in the KJV and the text before us; but despite that, it is admitted by all of them that this is what the Greek says, making it necessary to plead an exception in order to read it differently. Besides that, "The only begotten Son, alone, is the subject of this sublime passage."[34]Written as it should be written, it is one of the most precious statements in all the New Testament bearing upon the deity of our blessed Lord. The marvelous glory of Jesus Christ will be in the cataclysmic events of the Second Advent, the same being the primary affirmation of this great text. Paul was encouraging the beleaguered saints on Crete to hold fast the true faith until that moment in the fullness of time when Christ has promised to return, the second time apart from sin, robed in the glory of the eternal world, for the purpose of redeeming the righteous and casting evil out of his universe. Apart from the rendition of the disputed phrase noted above, the deity of Christ shines clearly enough in that glory envisioned of him in the entire verse. [32] Ronald A. Ward, op. cit., p. 261. [33] R. C. H. Lenski, op. cit., p. 922. [34] H. D. M. Spence, op. cit., p. 258. Verse 14 who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a people for his own possession, zealous of good works.Who gave himself for us ... As Zerr said, "This clearly shows that Christ is the particular one of the godhead meant in the preceding verse."[35] Here the great ransom for many is in view (<a href="/bible/parallel/MRK/10/45" class="green-link">Mark 10:45</a>). We do not inquire concerning the one to whom the ransom was paid, nor as to why it was necessary, nor if it could have been done in some other way. All such questions lie beyond our ability either to ask or to solve. Sufficient is the knowledge that our Lord "paid it all" that we might live. Men did not take his life away from him, but he freely laid it down upon our behalf (<a href="/bible/parallel/JHN/10/17" class="green-link">John 10:17-18</a>). No bitterness assailed him as he bore our sins on the tree; but "for the joy that was set before him, he endured the cross, despising the shame" (<a href="/bible/parallel/HEB/12/2" class="green-link">Hebrews 12:2</a>). From all iniquity ... The basic connection of salvation with the separation of the saved from the pursuit of iniquity is again apparent in this. Christ did not come to save men in their sins, but from their sins. Purify unto himself a people... White accurately pointed out that Paul very likely has in mind here <a href="/bible/parallel/EZK/37/23" class="green-link">Ezekiel 37:23</a>, thus: I will save them out of their dwelling places wherein they have sinned, and will cleanse them: so they shall be my people, and I will be their God. On the basis of this, White went on to affirm "that there is an allusion to holy baptism here, which is explicit inTitus 3:5."[36] It may not be denied that sinners are purified unto the Lord in their conversion and that thus they become the Lord's own possession. [35] E. M. Zerr, op. cit., p. 204. [36] Newport J. D. White, op. cit., p. 196. Verse 15 These things speak and exhort and reprove with all authority. Let no man despise thee.Speak... exhort.., reprove... "These verbs are in the present imperative, meaning keep on doing it’”.[37]They also have the meaning that Paul considered Titus to be already doing the things commanded. All authority … “This word, found only in the Pauline epistles, has always the sense of a divine commandment?[38] It is because of the heavenly origin of his message that Titus was admonished to “let no man despise thee.” The gospel preacher does not need to feel inferior to any man, because his message is from God. [37] Ronald A. Ward, op. cit., p. 264. [38] R. V. G. Tasker, op. cit., p. 202.

“THE EPISTLE TO TITUS”

Chapter Two

IN THIS CHAPTER

1. To note the various instructions pertaining to proper Christian conduct

2. To observe how the grace of God does not give us license to sin, but is designed to produce sober, righteous, and godly lives

SUMMARY Having reviewed the qualifications of elders and their work, Paul exhorts Titus to “speak the things which are proper for sound doctrine.” Such things include the proper conduct expected of Christians, both male and female, young and old, and of those who are servants. Even Titus was to present himself as a pattern of good works for others to follow, which would also serve to silence any opponents of the faith (Titus 2:1-10).

Paul then writes of the grace of God that brings salvation to all men. This wonderful grace instructs us to deny ungodliness and worldly lusts, choosing instead to live soberly, righteously and godly. It also encourages us to look forward to the blessed hope we have related to the glorious appearing of Jesus Christ, who gave Himself to redeem us from every lawless deed and purify for Himself a special people who are zealous for good works. These things Titus was to teach with all authority, allowing none to despise him for doing so (Titus 2:11-15).

OUTLINE

I. CONDUCT (Titus 2:1-10)

A. THE OLDER MEN (Titus 2:1-2)

1. Titus is to speak things proper for sound doctrine (Titus 2:1)
2. The older men are to be… (Titus 2:2) a. Sober, reverent, temperate b. Sound in faith, love, patience

B. THE OLDER WOMEN (Titus 2:3-4 a)

1. In similar way they are to be reverent in behavior (Titus 2:3 a) a. Not slanderers b. Not given to much wine
2. They are to be teachers of good things, and admonish the young women (Titus 2:3-4 a)

C. THE YOUNG WOMEN (Titus 2:4-5)

1. They are to love their husbands and their children (Titus 2:4 b)
2. They are to be… (Titus 2:5) a. Discreet, chaste, homemakers b. Good, obedient to their own husbands …that the word of God may not be blasphemed

D. THE YOUNG MEN (Titus 2:6-8)

1. In a similar way they are to be sober-minded (Titus 2:6)
2. In all things Titus is to be a pattern of good works (Titus 2:7-8) a. In doctrine showing integrity, reverence, incorruptibility b. With sound speech that cannot be condemned

1. So that any opponent may be ashamed
2. Having nothing evil to say of him

E. THE (Titus 2:9-10)

1. They are to be… (Titus 2:9-10 a) a. Obedient to their masters b. Well pleasing in all things, not answering back c. Not pilfering, but showing fidelity in all things
2. So they can adorn the doctrine of God in all things (Titus 2:10 b)

II. THE OF THE GRACE OF GOD (Titus 2:11-15)

A. THE GRACE OF GOD HAS (Titus 2:11)

1. That which brings salvation (Titus 2:11 a)
2. It has appeared to all men (Titus 2:11 b)

B. THE GRACE OF GOD TEACHES US (Titus 2:12-14)

1. To deny ungodliness and worldly lusts (Titus 2:12 a)
2. To live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age (Titus 2:12 b)
3. To look for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ (Titus 2:13) a. Who gave Himself for us (Titus 2:14 a) b. That He might…

1. Redeem us from every lawless deed (Titus 2:14 b)
2. Purify for Himself His own special people, zealous for good works (Titus 2:14 c)

C. TITUS’ (Titus 2:15)

1. Speak these things, exhort, and rebuke with all authority (Titus 2:15 a)
2. Let no despise him (Titus 2:15 b)

REVIEW FOR THE CHAPTER

1. What are the main points of this chapter?

• Instruction concerning Christian conduct (Titus 2:1-10)
• The instruction of the grace of God (Titus 2:11-15)

2. What was Titus expected to speak? (Titus 2:1)

• Things which are proper for sound doctrine

3. What was expected of the older men? (Titus 2:2)

• To be sober, reverent, temperate, sound in faith, in love, in patience

4. What was expected of the older women? (Titus 2:3-4)

• To be reverent, not slanderers, not given to much wine
• To be teachers of good things, admonishing the young women

5. What was expected of the younger women? (Titus 2:4-5)

• To love their husbands, to love their children
• To be discreet, chaste, homemakers, good, obedient to their own husbands

6. Why were the younger women to behave this way? (Titus 2:5)

• That the word of God may not be blasphemed

7. What was Titus to exhort the young men? (Titus 2:6)

• To be sober-minded

8. What was Titus expected to do? (Titus 2:7-8)

• To be a pattern of good works
• To show integrity, reverence and incorruptibility in his doctrine
• To have sound speech that cannot be condemned

9. What was expected of those who were servants? (Titus 2:9-10)

• To be obedient to their masters
• To be well pleasing in all things
• Not to answer back, not pilfering, but showing fidelity

10. By behaving this way, what were the servants actually doing? (Titus 2:10)

• Adorning the doctrine of God our Savior in all things

11. What does the grace of God teach us? (Titus 2:11-13)

• To deny ungodliness and worldly lusts
• To live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age
• To look for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ

12. Why did Jesus give Himself for us? (Titus 2:14)

• To redeem us from every lawless deed
• To purify for Himself His own special people, zealous for good works

13. How was Titus to speak these things? (Titus 2:15)

• By exhorting and rebuking with all authority, letting no one despise him

Questions by E.M. Zerr On Titus 21. How was Titus to teach ? 2. This would lead the aged men to be how ? 3. State meaning of temperate. 4. How might one be unsound in the faith ? 5. Give another word for charity. 6. Does patience require submission? 7. State the conduct required of aged women. 8. What is the nature of false accusation? 9. How about wine? 10. Of what should they be teachers ? 11. What class should they specially teach? 12. State the teaching as to husbands and children. 13. How would this affect their sobriety? 14. How should they keep ? 15. How does this agree with modem “ club” life? 16. State proper attitude toward their husbands. 17. This is to avoid what evil results? 18. Show how the contrary might be the fruits. 19. Who else are exhorted to be sober minded? 20. Would this agree with “ sowing wild oats” ? 21. What should Titus show himself to be? 22. Why in good works and doctrine? 23. Cite similar command to another evangelist. 24. Showing uncorruptness in what ? 25. How does gravity differ from being sober? 26. Give your definition of sincerity. 27. How does sound speech differ from sound only? 28. Why cannot this be condemned ? 29. What will cause the opposer to be ashamed? 30. How should servants be exhorted to behave? 31. What about arguing with theiT masters? 32. Tell the meaning of purloining. 33. Would servants have special temptation for this? 34. How would their honesty affect the doctrine? 35. Explain how this would be the result. 36. What is the grace of God? 37. Tell what it brings. 38. To what portion of men does it bring this? 39. Had this been fulfilled at this time? 40. How can the grace of God do teaching? 41. Give the word here that means to disown. 42. Distinguish ungodliness and worldly lusts. 43. How should we live? 44. To what does such a life look? 45. How will God and Christ appear? 46. Which gave himself for us? 47. To what extent was the redemption to be? 48. What kind of people did he wish to have? 49. In what would their zeal consist? 50. In what manner was Titus to teach?

Titus 2:1

Titus 2:1. Instead of doing false teaching as the Judaizers were, Titus was to counteract it by speaking that which becomes (is befitting to) sound doctrine. That means teaching that will cause spiritual health to all who accept it.

Titus 2:2

Titus 2:2. The apostle then specifies what will constitute sound doctrine. The items are appropriate for the persons in the various age groups and other places in the walks of life. The aged or elderly men were to “act their age” by being sober or watchful, grave or sober-minded, temperate or self-controlled. sound in the faith means to be true to the word of God which is the basis of faith (Romans 10:17). In charity requires them to be interested in the welfare of others. Patience means for them to be constant in their devotion to the Lord, enduring whatever it brings without complaining.

Titus 2:3

Titus 2:3. Aged is from the same Greek word as that for the men in the preceding verse, and signifies that the women are to keep in mind their years of life and behave accordingly. As becometh holiness means that a righteous life requires that they realize their responsibility in view of their age. False accusers is from the same word as “devil,” and when used to describe character it means slanderers. Given to much wine is explained at 1 Timothy 3:3. Teachers of good things is general, and they will be specified in the next two verses.

Titus 2:4

Titus 2:4. Teach is from a Greek word that has a general meaning, and is defined by Thayer, “to make or cause one to come to his senses; to moderate, control, curb, discipline; to hold one to his duty; to admonish, to exhort earnestly.” When the young women are sober or self-controlled themselves, and then exert such influence upon others of their age class, it will cause them to love their husbands and children. They will show that love by the proper kind of behaviour.

Titus 2:5

Titus 2:5. They will be discreet or moderate, and chaste, which means to be pure in heart and life. Keepers at home is from which Thayer defines, “The (watch or) keeper of a house. Keeping at home and taking care of household affairs, domestic.” A woman cannot display the kind of character and conduct as this and the preceding verse describes, if she follows the example of many modern wives, who spend much of their time running round in the neighborhood, or devoting their attention to clubs and other social gatherings. Good has virtually the same meaning as chaste, except that the apostle adds the specification that they be obedient to their own husbands. Ephesians 5:22-24 teaches that the husband is the head of the wife, hence she is required to be subject to him.

That the word of God be not blasphemed. The world in general understands that a wife is supposed to be subject to her husband; but if she is otherwise while making a profession of being guided by the Bible, it will reflect unfavorably on that profession. To blaspheme means to speak evil, and hence such inconsistent conduct on the part of a married woman will give occasion to speak against the Book she claims to love.

Titus 2:6

Titus 2:6. Sober minded means having a mind of self-control.

Titus 2:7

Titus 2:7. Since Titus was himself a young man, as may be gathered from the fact of his being Paul’s “son after the common faith” chapter 1:4), it was proper that he show an example of righteous living before other young men by practicing good works. In doctrine showing uncorruptness denotes that his teaching was to be pure. Gravity denotes dignity and seriousness. Sincerity is from an original term that means especially a continuous life of pure conduct.

Titus 2:8

Titus 2:8. Sound speech is that which will have a good effect on those who accept it. Cannot be condemned. Such speech may be opposed and misrepresented, but it cannot be shown to be wrong. The opposers will therefore be put to shame when they are unable to say anything (truthfully) against it.

Titus 2:9

Titus 2:9. See the comments at 1 Timothy 6:1 on the subject of servants. Not answering again means to refrain from “talking back” to their masters, but to do what they are told without arguing the matter.

Titus 2:10

Titus 2:10. Purloining means the taking of the property of another in a secret or underhand manner. A slave would have many opportunities for doing that, in connection with the services he has to render with the possessions of his master. Showing all good fidelity means for them to be honest and faithful with the goods of their masters as they go about their work. Adorn is from a Greek word that means to honor. In its details, it denotes that use of or handling of anything that recognizes order and harmony.

If a slave is faithful in his service to his master, at the same time he is professing a belief in the doctrine or teaching of Christ, it will show that a man can be such a be liever, and at the same time be under the yoke of servitude. The result will. be to make a favorable impression on the mind of the master.

Titus 2:11

Titus 2:11. All of the words in this verse are correctly rendered, but the order in which they are arranged is different from the original. In its present form it means that the Gospel has appeared to all men. That is true, which may be seen also at Romans 10:18 and Colossians 1:23. But that is not the particular truth the apostle is stressing at this place. The order of words according to the Greek text should read as follows: “For appeared the grace of God which brings salvation for all men.” This brings out the important truth that the Gospel is for all men, not for the Jews only as was the law of Moses.

Titus 2:12

Titus 2:12. Teaching us that, etc. This denotes that something more than the favor of God is involved in the salvation of man, and that he is required to do something in order to obtain this salvation. Denying does not mean to question the existence of the things mentioned, but that we must deny them the opportunity of affecting our lives. Ungodliness and worldly lusts. There is not much difference between the meaning of these terms.

The first is a somewhat stronger word in the original, meaning a life that is wrong because it is vicious and wicked. The second concerns chiefly things that are wrong in that they-conform to the world, and hence are interested in this life instead of that which is to come. To live soberly means to use judgment and wisdom such as that which is “from above” (James 3:17). Righteously signifies a life that is patterned after the law of righteousness which is the Gospel. Godly is so termed because it requires a man to live in the way that will be pleasing to Him.

Titus 2:13

Titus 2:13. Christians may have the blessed hope in this life even, but they are looking for the fulfillment of it in the future. The glorious appearing of the great God and that of our Saviour refers to the same person. The Deity (Godhead) is composed of three persons, namely, the Father and Son and Holy Ghost (or Spirit), hence God is a proper term to be applied to either of them.

Titus 2:14

Titus 2:14. Gave himself for us shows that Christ is the particular one of the Godhead who is meant in the preceding verse, since He is the one who was given as a sacrifice. To redeem means to rescue something from a state of bondage. A condition of iniquity or sin was that from which Christ offered himself as a ransom. After being rescued from iniquity, we are purified and are ready to become the Lord’s peculiar (special possession) people. Such a people are expected to have the distinction of being zealous of good works.

Titus 2:15

Titus 2:15. Titus was to speak so as to inform them of their duty. He was then to exhort them, which means to insist on doing what one knows to be his duty. If they refuse to perform their duty, the next thing is to rebuke the disobedient ones. With all authority means that Titus was fully authorized to speak all these things. To despise means to belittle, and Titus was to conduct himself in such a manner that people would look with respect upon him.