Titus
Titus was taught by Dr. James Modlish

Chapter Three
(LAST REMINDERS)

Introduction:

This chapter continues Paul's exhortation to Titus concerning the ministry of the local church.

 

I. Christian Citizenship (3:1-2)

Christians ought to be good citizens. Even though our citizenship is in heaven (Phil. 3:20), there is a real need to do what we can to see Christian principles put into effect in the affairs of our cities and nation.

Even if men cannot be honored, the office and laws of the land should be. (Rom. 13.1-7; 1 Pet. 2:13-17). Of course, if the laws contradict the Word, the Christian's first allegiance is to God (Acts 4:19; 5:29).

Verse 2 warns against spreading lies with evil intent, or starting fights. "For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God" (James 1:20). Gentleness and meekness can be stronger than even legal power! The Christian depends on different weapons as he fights sin (2 Cor. 10:1-6). The believer should know how to trust God to fight his battles after he has done all he can Scripturally (Rom. 12:17-21). Meekness is not weakness; rather, it is power under control. Jesus was meek (Matt. 11:29) yet He knew how to exert power. 

II. Christian Ethics (3:3-8)

Paul is reminding these people of what they were like before they were Saved (vs. 3). If all of us would spend a little time reflecting upon that, it would help us be a little more understanding of the unsaved. This sin list can be found in an expanded form in (Gal. 5:19-21).

Paul makes it very clear that our salvation is not by works (vs. 5). Although it should result in good works (vs. 8) (Eph. 2:8-10). By allowing Scripture to interpret itself we find that the washing spoken of in (vs. 5) is not accomplished by baptism as some have been misled to believe, but rather by the Word (Eph. 5:26; Jn. 15:3) and by the blood of Christ (I Jn. 1:7). 

III. Christian Discipline (3:9-11)

This is the only passage in the Word of God where the word heretic appears. In its general accepted usage the word applies to those who are in error doctrinally. However, since there is no other reference to cross check, we must allow the context to interpret the word for us. Even though a heretic may he wrong doctrinally, he is one who uses things to stir up strife and divisions in the church. These church troublemakers loved to argue about words and genealogies.

Titus was instructed that these people were to receive two stern warnings and if that did not correct the problem the offenders were to be excluded from the church fellowship. Some sympathizers might say "but perhaps he will reform." Paul points out in (vs. 11) that the man will not reform; he is subverted (turned inside out) and in a state of constant sin. 

IV. Personal Plans And Greetings (12-15)

Paul closes his brief letter with information about the travels of his associates in the Lord's work. He informs Titus that ''reinforcements are coming'' to assist him in the difficult ministry on Crete. Either Artemas or Tychicus would replace him so that he might join Paul at Nicopolis; but meanwhile, Titus was to stay on the job until someone arrived to continue the work. It is well to keep in mind that God does not destroy one ministry to build up another one. When He moves a man, He has a replacement ready to step in. If no replacement is ready, it might be an indication that it is not time to move.

It seems that Zenas and Apollos are the ones who delivered this letter to Titus. Paul advises Titus to assist them as they continue their journey, which was certainly a special mission for Paul. Christians ought to help one another as we go about in His service; (see I Cor. 16:6 and 11; Rom. 15:24). We must take care not to assist those who teach false doctrine, however (2 Jn. 9-11).

Verse 14 Paul's reminder that the local Christians ought to assist Titus in his work and in his ministry of helping others on their way. The pastor and the people should share in this ministry! ''Being fruitful in every good work" should describe all Christians (Col. 1:10) and not the pastor and officers only.

He closes with his apostolic greeting, linking love with faith. ''Grace be with you all" marks the letter as Paul's own writing (2 Thess. 3:17).
 

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