This epistle is a concise manual of conduct for assemblies of brothers and sisters in Christ. Titus 1 and 1 Timothy 3 are critical to the organization of the local church because they outline God’s requirements for the leadership of the body of believers. Titus provides us with instruction on the ordination of elders, dealing with false teachers, the role of different groups within the church, and the relationship between sound doctrine and godly behavior.
From Handbook to Scripture
Chapter 1
Paul’s salutation to Titus contains a rich statement of God’s redemptive purpose for His people (1:1–4). He then launches into the principal purpose of the letter, which is to provide instructions for the oversight and conduct of the churches in Crete. Paul gives his associate a list of qualifications to assist him in discerning the right people for this leadership office in each church (1:5–9), and then warns him about the problem of corruption and false teaching (1:10–16).
From Handbook to Scripture
Chapter 2
Paul gives Titus clear directives concerning the way each group (older men, older women, younger women, young men, and slaves) in the assemblies should conduct themselves (2:1–10). This is followed by a concise affirmation of the hope and transforming power of the gospel of Christ (2:11–15).
Titus presents Christ as the supreme manifestation of the grace, mercy, and redemptive purposes of God. It is by His grace that we are justified, and through Him we have become heirs who enjoy the hope of eternal life. This hope is in “the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Christ Jesus” (2:13).
From Handbook to Scripture