Titus
Chapter 3
Overview
This closing chapter turns from community life to public life. Titus must remind believers to respect governing authorities, avoid needless conflict, and treat everyone gently. The reason is humbling: they too once lived foolishly and destructively, until God showed them kindness through Jesus. That kindness should now produce useful, generous lives—not endless arguments dressed up as wisdom. The chapter finishes with practical travel plans and support for coworkers. Faith here is meant to bear fruit in ordinary needs, where lofty ideas finally put on work clothes.
1Remind them to submit to rulers and authorities, to obey them, and to be ready to do every kind of good work.
2Remind them not to insult anyone or pick fights. They must be considerate and show complete gentleness toward everyone.
3We too were once foolish and disobedient. We were led astray and enslaved by all kinds of desires and pleasures. We lived with malice and envy. People hated us, and we hated one another.
4But then the kindness of God our Savior and his love for humanity appeared.
5He saved us, not because of any good and right things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing that gives new birth and through renewal by the Holy Spirit.
6God poured out the Holy Spirit generously on us through Jesus the Messiah, our Savior.
7God did this so that, by his generous favor, we could be put right with him and become heirs who confidently expect eternal life.
8This saying is trustworthy. I want you to insist firmly on these things, so that those who have trusted God will take care to devote themselves to good works. These things are good and helpful to people.
9But stay away from foolish debates, arguments about family histories, quarrels, and fights about the law. They are useless and accomplish nothing.
10If someone keeps creating divisions, warn that person once and then a second time. After that, have nothing more to do with them.
11You know that such a person has become corrupt and keeps doing wrong. Their own behavior condemns them.
12When I send Artemas or Tychicus to you, make every effort to come to me in Nicopolis, because I have decided to spend the winter there.
13Do everything you can to help Zenas, the legal expert, and Apollos on their journey. Make sure they have everything they need.
14Our people must also learn to devote themselves to good work so that urgent needs are met. Then their lives will not be unproductive.
15Everyone with me sends you greetings. Greet those who love us as fellow believers. May God’s generous favor be with all of you.