Page 99 - New Testament Survey Student Textbook

to counteract the false teachers (1:10–12; 3:9–11). Paul further shows that church leaders should model
this (1:5–9).
In many passages of the letter to Titus, Paul makes it clear that the motivation to do good comes from a
right understanding of God and what He has done for us in Christ and through the Holy Spirit. That is,
God’s grace, as seen in the person and finished work of Jesus, saves us, changes us, and gives us hope
for eternity with Him (3:4–7). This leads us to do what is good, declaring by word and deed God’s grace
to others (2:11–14). 138

Occasion
It is very clear from the content, that Paul introduced Christianity in Crete when he and Titus visited the
island, after which he left Titus there to organize the converts. Paul then sent the letter with Zenas and
Apollos, who were on a journey that took them through Crete (3:13), to give Titus personal
authorization and guidance in meeting opposition (1:5; 2:1,7–8,15; 3:9), instructions about faith and
conduct, and warnings about false teachers. Paul also informed Titus of his future plans for him (3:12).

Purpose

At Crete, Titus faces some challenges to help the church stand against false teachers and put to practice
what they were being taught. Paul, wrote to give him guidance. Paul had left Titus in Crete to appoint
church leaders and to oppose false teachers (Titus 1:5, 10, 16). In this letter, Paul shows the connection
between right belief and right action, emphasizing that God’s graciousness should prompt us to be godly
people (2:11–15). 139
Structure

typical of a Pauline letter, Titus has a greeting (1:1–4), a body (1:5–3:11), and a conclusion (3:12–15). In
the greeting, Paul focusses on the need to have a knowledge of the truth and to be godly, as he
repeatedly does throughout the rest of the letter. In the first major section of the body (1:5–2:15), Paul
presents qualifications for the elders (high-level leaders) in the church (1:5–9), setting them in
opposition to the false teachers (1:10–16). Paul then give guidance of proper conduct to several groups
in the church: older men, older women, younger men, younger women, and slaves (2:1–15). In the next
major section of the body (3:1–11), Paul explains that God’s merciful salvation should motivate believers
to devote themselves to good works. Paul argues that when we were hostile toward God, He showed us
kindness, so we ought to show kindness to others and avoid divisive behavior. Paul concludes the letter
with some final instructions for Titus and another reminder to engage in good works before offering his
final benediction (3:12–15). 140

Outline
• Introduction and instructions about elders, truth, and various groups (1:1–2:15)
• Instructions for Christian living (3:1–11)
• Closing instructions and remarks (3:12–15) 141

How does Titus Impact our lives?

138 Barry, J. D., et al.
139 Ibid
140 Ibid
141 Ibid
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