Titus, Day 1
Chapter 1:1 – 9
THEME “The theme of Titus is the inseparable link between faith and practice, belief and behavior. This truth is the basis for its critique of false teaching as well as its instruction in Christian living and qualifications for church leaders” (ESV Study Bible).
Paul opens up the 3-chapter book of Titus as a “servant” of God. The Greek word for servant is doulos. He also identifies himself as an “apostle” of Jesus Christ. Paul typically refers to himself as “servant of Christ.” This is the only place he uses “servant of God.” On an interesting note, “a servant in the first century did not act on his own authority but on the authority of his master” (ESV Study Bible).
Paul’s message in Verse 1 is typical for him. His purpose, “for the sake,” is to see people saved, coming to “faith” and the “knowledge of the truth.” “The true gospel always produces ‘godliness’ in its adherents, ‘godliness’ being the hallmark of the true gospel. This sets up the primary problem with the false teachers and that Paul will discuss in the letter” (ESV Study Bible notes).
As is the title of this book, Titus is Paul’s “true child” — a true term of endearment. Paul most likely introduced Titus to faith in Christ, and Titus was converted while in Antioch (Acts 13:46).
So, the main reason why Paul left Titus in Crete was to ensure that the church was provided with qualified elder leadership. His charge to him was to find qualified leaders and get them immediately in place. Verses 5 – 9 point to what these leaders needed to have in order to serve. “Spiritual leadership requires Spirit-filled people. Other qualities are important; to be Spirit-filled is indispensable” (J. Oswald Sanders, “Spiritual Leadership”).
Through Verses 5 – 9, Paul provides an extensive list of positive and negative qualifications for an elder:
1) “above reproach” — twice mentioned, so it’s important. The Greek here is translated “blameless” or “irreproachable.” He must not be open to attack or criticism. No legitimate accusation could be brought against the elder that would bring disrepute on the Gospel or the church.
2) “husband of one wife” — This is a “one-women man.” He must exhibit exemplary faithfulness and devotion to his wife.
3) “His children are believers” can also mean “his children are faithful.” An elder’s children must be submissive and faithful and thus not “open to the charge of debauchery or insubordination.” “The word ‘children’ would apply only to children living at home and still under their father’s authority” (ESV Study Bible note).
4) not arrogant
5) not quick-tempered
6) not a drunkard
7) not violent
8) not greedy
The remaining qualifications (Verses 7 – 9) are more on the positive side — hospitable, lover of good, self-controlled, upright, holy, and disciplined. He must be trustworthy with regard to the Word, as taught. He must be able to provide instruction in sound doctrine, able to rebuke those who contradict it.
I leave you with a quotation from Field Marshall Bernard Montgomery: “His war experience taught him that the staff must serve the troops and that a good staff officer must serve his commander while remaining anonymous himself.”
Thanks to The ESV Expository Commentary for guidance.
Lead on!
Tom Dye