Titus

🏛️ Historical context

Cretans had a bad reputation in the ancient world; the new community needed good pastors and an exemplary way of life.

🔙 Background

Titus, a Christian of Greek origin, was Paul's trusted co-worker and envoy at delicate moments, as in Corinth.

🧭 Structure of the book

⭐ Key events and teachings

1. 1Qualifications for presbyters and bishops (1:5-9)
2. 2Advice for older people, the young and slaves (ch. 2)
3. 3"The grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation" (2:11), read at Christmas
4. 4Saved by the washing of regeneration and renewal in the Spirit (3:5)

🏷️ Main themes

📖 Verses to memorize

• Titus 2:11For the grace of God our Saviour hath appeared to all men:
• Titus 2:12Instructing us, that, denying ungodliness and worldly desires, we should live soberly and justly and godly in this world,
• Titus 2:13Looking for the blessed hope and coming of the glory of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ.
• Titus 3:4-5But when the goodness and kindness of God our Saviour appeared: Not by the works of justice which we have done, but according to his mercy, he saved us, by the laver of regeneration and renovation of the Holy Ghost.
• Titus 3:8It is a faithful saying. And these things I will have thee affirm constantly, that they who believe in God may be careful to excel in good works. These things are good and profitable unto men.

💭 For reflection

• Is my life consistent with the faith I profess?
• What does it mean to be "born again" in baptism?

Paul instructs Titus, in charge of the Church in Crete, on how to choose elders and how believers should live, recalling that God's grace has appeared to save all.