Titus Chapter 3 — Salvation by Grace and Good Works
Paul encourages Titus to teach believers about civic obedience, the nature of salvation through God's mercy, and the importance of maintaining good works while avoiding division.
1Remind them to be in subjection to rulers and to authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good work,
2to speak evil of no one, not to be contentious, to be gentle, showing all humility toward all men.
3For we were also once foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving various lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another.
4But when the kindness of God our Savior and his love toward mankind appeared,
5not by works of righteousness which we did ourselves, but according to his mercy, he saved us through the washing of regeneration and renewing by the Holy Spirit,
6whom he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior;
7that being justified by his grace, we might be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life.
8This saying is faithful, and concerning these things I desire that you insist confidently, so that those who have believed God may be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable to men;
9but shun foolish questionings, genealogies, strife, and disputes about the law; for they are unprofitable and vain.
10Avoid a factious man after a first and second warning,
11knowing that such a one is perverted and sinful, being self-condemned.
12When I send Artemas to you, or Tychicus, be diligent to come to me to Nicopolis, for I have determined to winter there.
13Send Zenas the lawyer and Apollos on their journey speedily, that nothing may be lacking for them.
14Let our people also learn to maintain good works to meet necessary needs, that they may not be unfruitful.
15All who are with me greet you. Greet those who love us in faith.
WEB Translation
Notable Verses
Titus 3:5
“not by works of righteousness which we did ourselves, but according to his mercy, he saved us through the washing of regeneration and renewing by the Holy Spirit,”
This verse defines salvation as an act of divine mercy rather than human merit.
Titus 3:8
“This saying is faithful, and concerning these things I desire that you insist confidently, so that those who have believed God may be careful to maintain good works.”
This verse links the theological foundation of belief in God with the practical necessity of doing good.
Chapter Summary
In this final chapter, Paul instructs Titus to remind the believers in Crete to be submissive to authorities and kind to all people. He contrasts their past sinful lives with the transformative kindness and love of God. Paul emphasizes that salvation is not earned through human deeds but is a gift of mercy through the Holy Spirit and Jesus Christ. This grace justifies believers and gives them hope for eternal life. Consequently, Paul urges the community to focus on profitable activities and good works while shunning foolish arguments and divisive individuals. The letter concludes with personal logistics regarding Paul's fellow workers and a final benediction of grace.
Frequently Asked Questions
Paul instructs believers to be in subjection to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, and to be ready for every good work. He emphasizes being gentle and showing humility toward all people as a reflection of their faith.
Salvation is described as coming through God's kindness and mercy rather than any works of righteousness performed by humans. It involves the washing of regeneration and renewing by the Holy Spirit, poured out through Jesus Christ.
Paul tells Titus to shun foolish questionings, genealogies, strife, and disputes about the law because they are unprofitable. He also advises avoiding divisive or factious individuals after they have been warned twice.
Study Note
The phrase 'washing of regeneration' utilizes a Greek term, palingenesia, which refers to a new birth or spiritual rebirth, a concept unique to this passage and Matthew 19:28 in the New Testament.
Related Chapters
Romans Chapter 13
Both chapters provide instructions for believers regarding their relationship with governing authorities.
Ephesians Chapter 2
Both texts emphasize that salvation is a gift of grace and not a result of human works.
2 Timothy Chapter 2
These chapters share similar warnings against participating in foolish and unprofitable disputes.
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