Home

Nazarene Commentary 2000©

21^st Century Paraphrase of the Hebrew Scriptures© –
21^st Century Version of the Christian Scriptures© [NCMM]

THE LETTER TO TITUS

CHAPTER ONE:
“AN ELDER EXHORTS BY HEALTHFUL TEACHING”

[“Correct the Defective”]
Key Word: Elders
Theme Verse: 9

Titus 1:1-4 – Paul to Titus

TI1:1 Paul – God’s slave and Jesus Christ’s apostle according to that conviction of God’s Chosen Ones – a true, reverent and heightened relationship [with God] 1 –

1

True, reverent and heightened relationship [with God]: Or, KJV: the acknowledging of the truth which is after godliness; BAS: the full knowledge of what is true in harmony with religion; WMS: lead them on to a full knowledge of religious truth. Paul opens with a long sentence containing several thoughts. The phrase “heightened relationship” is from the Greek EPIGNOSIN [Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance #1922, precise and correct knowledge] which may be rendered: knowledge, acknowledge, full knowledge, or accurate knowledge. The idea also may contain the thought of a heightened or elevated relationship. The word “reverent” is from the Greek EUSEBEIAN [Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance #2150, godliness, reverence, piety] and means well [excellent/fine/good] + reverence [godly awe, fear].

TI1:2 regarding a hope of everlasting life, which the truthful God 2 promised before time immemorial 3 –

2	Truthful God: The Greek is APSEUDES THEOS, that is, a “non-lying God.” Or, KJV: God, that cannot lie; TCN: God, who never lies; WEY: never deceives; BAS: made certain. Compare Numbers 23:19; Hebrews 6:18.

3

Promised before time immemorial: Or, KJV: before the world began; TCN: before the ages began; WEY: promised from all eternity; BAS: before eternal time. “Time” began in the Universe with the Prime Mover began motion. [“Something is moving.” – Albert Einstein] The Greek is literally PRO CHRONON AIONION [before times aeonian (see English dictionary)] and does not necessarily infer “before eternity” but before the “ages began.”

TI1:3 but manifested it in its own seasons – His word, in a message which I was entrusted with, according to a command from our Savior, God – TI1:4 to Titus, 4 my genuine child according to a conviction held in common – unmerited favor and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus, our Savior. 5

4

Paul… to Titus: Though much ignored this short epistle is an inspired example of the order and arrangements which obtained in the early Church. No one can read it without realizing that the primitive congregation was not a loose conglomerate of independent and autonomous congregations. There was a central authority appointed by the Risen Master and here represented in that grand apostle, Paul. The entire epistle is an outline for how modern ecclesia ought to organize themselves. There is specific counsel for all age groups within the Church. Regarding Titus himself, his name occurs 14 times in Paul’s letters. (9 times in 2 Corinthians [2 Corinthians 2:13; 8:1-6; 12:17, 18; 2 Corinthians 7:6, 7, 13-15; 2 Corinthians 8:6, 16, 17, 23], 2 times in Galatians [Galatians 2:1-3], once in 2 Timothy [2 Timothy 4:10], and twice in Titus) Titus has the apostolic authority to appoint elders.

5

Savior: The designation “Savior” occurs 6 times: 3 times as applied to God and 3 times to Jesus. Any study of the word savior will show that human judges were such. [Judges 3:9, 15; 12:3; 1 Samuel 23:5; 2 Kings 13:5; Nehemiah 9:27; Isaiah 19:20; Obadiah 21] It is interesting to note that never is the holy spirit called “Savior” so nothing should be implied by the interchange of this designation between God and His Son Jesus – the instrument of His salvation.

Titus 1:5-9 – Elder Qualifications

TI1:5 This is the reason I left you in Crete 6 so that you should correct the defective things 7 and appoint elders in every town, 8 just as I ordered you. 9

6	Crete: Crete is the fifth largest island in the Mediterranean Sea near Greece. It seems likely that Christianity first reach Crete by those Jews present at Pentecost who then returned to their homeland with the Evangel of Christ. (Acts 2:5, 11) Paul comes there as described at Acts 27:6-16, 37, 38.

7

You should correct the defective things: Or, KJV: set in order the things that are wanting; RHM: the things remaining undone; BER: straighten out unfinished business; CON: correct what is deficient; TCNT: put in order what has been left unsettled; BECK: make the improvements still need. The Greek is LEIPONTA [Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance #3007, things wanting]. It is seems clear that the congregations on Crete needed a steady hand to bring them to maturity. Titus seems to have had the authority to make these corrections. The first of which, as Paul goes on to write, was leadership. See notes on Ephesians 4:12-16.

8

Appoint elders in every town: Or, KJV: ordain; RHM: establish; CON: appoint Presbyters; TCNT: Officers of the Church; TAY: pastors. The word “elder” is from the Greek PRESBYTEROUS [Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance #4245, elder of age; rank or office] from which the title Presbyterian comes. Just as the Jewish religion had “elders” (or, older men), so the early Church appointed such qualified males to take the lead in governing the local congregations. There are several views regarding these appointments but the evidence seems to point to these ordinations by apostolic representatives, such as Paul. Compare Acts 14:23. These appointees had apostolic hands laid upon them following fasting and prayers. Research the words elder and laying on of hands. [1 Timothy 4:14; 1 Timothy 5:22; 2 Timothy 1:6; Hebrews 6:2]

9	Just as I ordered you: Or, KJV: as I appointed thee; ASV: gave thee charge; ALF: prescribed; MON: instructed; TCNT: directed; RHM: arranged; NEB: observe the tests I prescribed. These are not suggestions or recommendations. They are charges from that apostle appointed by Christ himself.

TI1:6 If anyone is 10 irreproachable, 11 a husband of one wife, 12 a man with believing children 13 not under any accusation of debauchery or rebellious, 14

10

If anyone is: Or, NAS: if any man. The Greek is the masculine and as the context confirms Paul has in mind only men as elders, or older men. Women never served as elders or overseers in the early Church. [1 Timothy 2:11, 12] It may be said that men who are appointed without considering these requirements will only lead the congregation into error, for they will not have God’s backing. For more details on these qualifications see the book Nazarene Community 2000©.

11

Irreproachable: Or, KJV: blameless; ALF: under no imputation; NASB: above reproach; TCNT: irreproachable character; PME: unquestionable integrity; NOR: a reputation beyond reproach; TAY: well thought of for their good lives. In all of the qualifications compare those in 1 Timothy 3:1ff. The man who would be an elder can have no legitimate charge against his character. He is not expected to be perfect but his life must be an example for the whole Church. [1 Corinthians 1:8; 1 Timothy 3:10]

12	A husband of one wife: Compare 1 Timothy 3:2. Judging from the widow who is “the wife of one husband” at 1 Timothy 5:9, the man who would be elder could not be a divorced man who has married again.

13

A man with believing children: Or, ASV: children that believe; KNX: one who children hold the faith; TCNT: whose children are Christians. The Greek is ANER which is the word for male or husband. Nothing here hints that a woman would serve in these positions. The married elder may likely have children and these must be believers. [1 Timothy 3:4]

14

Not under any accusation of debauchery or rebellious: Or, KJV: not accused of riot or unruly; RHM: riotous excess, nor insubordinate; KNX: reckless living, not wanting in obedience; NOR: unwillingness to obey. In 1 Timothy 3 Paul explains the reasons for this: if a man cannot preside over his own household, how can he preside over the congregation. It is worthy of note that no where does it state his wife should have a certain character, though some see this in 1 Timothy 3:11 where the Greek may permit “wives.”

TI1:7 (because it is a necessity for the overseer 15 to be irreproachable as God’s house-steward) 16 not arrogant, 17 not quick-tempered, 18 not given to a lot of wine, 19 not violent, 20 not fond of dishonest gain, 21

15

Overseer: Or, KJV: bishop; RHM: overseer; TCNT: presiding officer; WMS: pastor; BECK: manager. Paul now uses a synonym for the elder indicating these are the same. The Greek is EPISKOPON [Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance #1985, superintendent] is the basis for the English word “bishop” and the designation Episcopalian.

16

Irreproachable as God’s house-steward: Or, KJV: blameless, as the steward of God; TCNT: a man of irreproachable character. [1 Timothy 3:10] The overseer (or, elder) must lead a life which is without reproach so that no one may bring a legitimate charge of some wrongdoing. On “steward” see 1 Corinthians 4:2 and 1 Corinthians 9:17.

17

Not arrogant: Or, KJV: not self-willed; WMS: stubborn; MOF: presumptuous; NEB: overbearing; KNX: obstinate; BECK: shouldn’t do as he pleases: BAS: ready to give way to others. Obviously he does not yield to all for Paul goes on to instruct Titus to reprove and resist the disobedient. The elder must find a balance between loving humility and courageous zeal. The early apostates were characterized by a lack of respect for proper authority. [2 Peter 2:10]

18

Not quick-tempered: Or, NEB: short-tempered; KNX: quarrelsome; BAS: not quickly moved to wrath. The elders must be patient and tolerant to other opinions and not given to flashes of anger or mean-tempered. Under every circumstance he must be well balanced emotionally even when dealing with sinners. He may rebuke as did his Master but his moderate disposition should shine with the Nazarene’s love and the Father’s mercy. Compare the notes on Romans 12:19. [James 1:19]

19

Not given to a lot of wine: Or, WMS: not addicted to strong drink; LAM: not excessive. Views vary depending on the culture. Our Master was a “drinker” and was thus wrongly accused of abuse, while John, who was an abstainer, was accused of demonism. A balance view can easily be understood by researching wine or strong drink in the Bible. The Mediterranean peoples tend to drink weak wine with most meals and happily so during special occasions such as weddings. Compare our Master’s first miracle at Cana. [John 2:1+] See 1 Timothy 3:3. On the subject of wine see Proverbs 20:1; 23:20, 30-35; 31:4-7. See the Biblical Article Wine That Makes the Heart Rejoice.

20

Not violent: Or, KJV: no striker; CON: given to brawls; WMS: pugnacious; LAM: too need to strike with his hand; NOR: to come to blows; RHM: ready to wound. The elder is a man under control of himself – within the congregation and within his family. He never resorts to physical threats which would give the impression he would be willing to come to blows over a matter.

21

Not fond of dishonest gain: Or, KJV: not given to filthy lucre; ABUV: greedy of base gain; TCNT: questionable money-making; NEB: not a money-grubber; MOF: addicted to pilfering. There were those in the early Church who took advantage of their position materially, Judas being the first. In English the word “extortion” may involve those who take material advantage of their position. Compare notes on Titus 1:7. [See 1 Timothy 3:8; 1 Peter 5:2.] Read 1 Corinthians 9:4-14 where Paul refers to the Nazarene: “those preaching the good news may live by the good news,” allowing for basic needs to be covered by the congregations. This was to be done without laying a burden, however. Read 2 Thessalonians chapter 3. In at least one situation Paul supported himself either not to be a burden, or, because those wishing to give did so with an agenda. Note Galatians 6:6. On this matter consider the lifestyles of Jesus and Paul as examples.

TI1:8 but rather, hospitable, 22 a lover of goodness, 23 sound of mind, 24 just, 25 holy, 26 self-controlled, 27

22

Hospitable: Or, ASV: given to hospitality; BAS: opening his house freely to guests. The Greek means “fond of strangers” shown by invitations to the home for rest and food. The Middle East was famous for its hospitality and among these the Christians out-shone them all. Thus, as an example in the congregation the elder must be head and shoulders above all when it comes to hospitality. His home must be open to all. He cannot be a recluse or isolated, giving a cold shoulder to others who may benefit from his charity and hospitality. [Deuteronomy 15:9; 2 Corinthians 9:7; Hebrews 13:2; 1 Peter 4:9] Compare notes on Romans 12:13. In the Hebrew Bible compare cases of hospitality in Abraham, Lot, and Abigail.

23

A lover of goodness: Or, KJV: a lover of good men; NEB: right-minded. Goodness is moral excellence characterized in coming to the aid of others, or, beneficence. The name Agatha comes from the Greek word often translated “good.” [Galatians 5:22; 6:10; see notes on Romans 12:9 and Ephesians 5:9 (1 Peter 3:13; 3 John 11)]

24

Sound of mind: Or, KJV: sober; ASV: sober-minded; WMS: sensible. The Greek is SOPHRONA [Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance #4998] and literally means safe-mind, or, self-controlled, moderate as to opinion or passion. It is a word Paul uses also at Titus 2:2, 5, 6. [1 Timothy 3:2; 1 Peter 4:7] Healthy thinking that is balanced and controlled is the meaning. The elder cannot be given to extremes or faddish. He may his opinions on such matters as health or recreation but he cannot use his standard as a judge of others.

25

Just: Or, WMS: upright; MOF: a just man; BECK: use good judgment; NW: righteous. If the Greek is view as “righteous” then it means the elder is an example of observing the Nazarene commandments. [See the publication Nazarene Commandments 2000©; see notes on 1 John 3:23; John 14:15; 15:14] If the bias be “just” then his decisions would be in harmony with what is fair and legal. There are those occasions where such elders must “judge those matters inside the congregation.” [1 Corinthians 5:12, 13; 6:3-6] In this matter of judgment he must be impartial and not influenced by money or prestige. [Leviticus 19:15] Research the word bribe.

26

Holy: Or, WMS: of pure life; MOF: a religious man; BECK: live right and holy; NW: loyal. Holiness under the law involved body, mind, and worship. [Numbers 15:40; Leviticus 19:2] The English word “holy” carries perhaps too strong a meaning for it infers almost a spiritual perfection. The Greek is HOSION [Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance #3741], a divine character – sacred, saintly. Clearly the elder must be known as a “holy” man. Since all Christians should be characterized as “holy” the elder must be more so. [1 Peter 1:15, 16; 2:5, 9; 3:5]

27

Self-controlled: Or, KJV: temperate; CON: continent; MOF: abstemious; BEC: he should control himself. See notes on 2 Peter 1:6. [2 Timothy 3:3; 1 Corinthians 7:9; 9:25; Galatians 5:23] This elder has learned to control himself so that he does not act or speak hastily. He also has control of his own body and habits.

TI1:9 holding to that teaching in harmony with [the] faithful Word, 28 also that he may be strong enough to exhort by that healthy teaching 29 and reprove those who are opposing. 30

28

Holding to that teaching in harmony with [the] faithful Word: Or, KJV: holding fast the faith word as he hath been taught; MOF: holds by the sure truths of doctrine. The elder must be very familiar with the teachings of the Nazarene, able to quote and cite sizable portions. He knows where to turn in the Bible for truths on doctrine and conduct. He does not rely on his own opinion or worldly thought. He must have read the Bible several times and the Christian Bible many times. This “teaching” or doctrine is that found in the Gospels and the writings of those inspired disciples of the Nazarene. He is not a man without an opinion, or a man who believes there is a wide range of interpretation to the “faithful word.” [1 Timothy 4:16; 6:3; James 3:1]

29

Strong enough to exhort by that healthy teaching: Or, KJV: that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort; RHM: encourage with his healthful instruction; NEB: move his hearers with wholesome teaching. When the elder teaches he must be able to accomplish two things: first, discussed here, exhortation or encouragement. Teaching is an art learned by use of the Word. [2 Timothy 1:13] The elder cannot be a weak man afraid to speak God’s truth.

30

Reprove those who are opposing: Or, KJV: to convince the gainsayers; WMS: convict those who oppose him; RSV: confute those who contradict; GDSP: show the error; BAS: overcome the arguments of the doubters. The elder is well-studied in God’s Word so that he can quote chapter and verse. He also is unafraid to confront those who oppose the “faithful word.” Not only must the elder be encouraging but he must also be strong enough – and capable enough – to deal with the opposition. Paul was such a man. He was fearless in the face of those who contradicted the Gospel and healthful teaching. No Christian should object to “reproof” or rebuke. [Revelation 3:19] See notes on Ephesians 5:11 and Titus 1:13. [1 Timothy 5:20; 2 Timothy 4:2]

Titus 1:10-12 – Shut Mouths of Dishonest Teachers

TI1:10 For, indeed, there are many opposers, 31 idle talkers and deceivers, 32 particularly those of the Circumcision, 33

31

There are many opposers: Or, KJV: many unruly; GDSP: undisciplined; MOF: insubordinate; KNX: rebellious; NEB: far too many out of all control; NOR: do not readily submit to authority. Already, this early in the Church, there was an apostasy at work. [2 Thessalonians 2:1-3; Acts 20:29, 30] These “opposers” fell into two major groups: a) the Judaizers who wished Christianity to be an extension of Judaism and the Law of Moses (today reflected in similar groups); and, b) the Greek influence of the Gnostics and Stoics who would bring in philosophical doctrines influenced by the much esteemed Plato and Aristotle (today reflected in Trinitarianism). Early Christianity was not a free group of independent thinkers with a variety of views on everything. Such “winds” were spoken of negatively. [Ephesians 4:13-15] Compare notes on Romans 16:18. [1 Timothy 1:6, 7; 2 Timothy 2:18]

32

Idle talkers and deceivers: Or, KJV: vain talkers; CON: disobedient babblers; WMS: mere talkers with nothing to say, but deceivers of their own minds; NEB: they talk wildly and lead men’s minds astray; MOF: who impose on people their empty arguments. As in the first century the same exist by the tens of thousands among modern Christianity. These include the so-called “modernists” who have rejected Jesus as Messiah and Son of God and deny the Bible is God’s inspired Word. [2 Timothy 3:15-17] They also include those so-called “conservatives” who twist the Word to create time chronologies and preach “the time is at hand.” [Luke 21:8; Deuteronomy 18:20-22]

33

Those of the Circumcision: That is, the Jews, particular that Jewish influence within the Church. Compare Acts 15:1, 2. These were a powerful early influence who wished to replace Christ with Moses. Similar thinking has continued to modern times: those who would make the Church “Jewish.” [Galatians 3:28, 29] See notes in Romans on circumcision. [1 Corinthians 7:19; Galatians 5:6, 11; 6:15; Philippians 3:1-3; Colossians 3:11] Paul addresses this problem more widely in his letter to the Galatians.

TI1:11 It is necessary to stop the mouths of those who overturn entire households, 34 teaching what they ought not for the sake of dishonest gain. 35

34

Stop the mouths of those who overturn entire households: Or, MOF: silenced; NEB: curbed; MOF: undermine whole families. The early Church was not a place where just anyone’s views could be expressed. The elder must be able to resist or restrain those teachers who have departed from Christ and Paul. [2 Timothy 3:6] Mouths may be stopped by not permitting such to speak or by over-powering arguments. The fight for pure doctrine was an ongoing battle. [2 Corinthians 10:4-7]

35

Teaching what they ought not for the sake of dishonest gain: MOF: teaching objectionable doctrine; NASB: sordid gain; CON: shameful gain; KNX: base profits; BECK: make money in such a shameful way. There are two ways to identify such: material profit, or, selfish ambition. [1 Timothy 6:5; 1 Peter 5:2] Either these men want profit or they want undeserved honor. They usually teach what others want to hear in order to tickle their ears. Modern examples are seen in the “prosperity preachers.”

TI1:12 A certain one of their prophets said: “Cretans are always liars, wicked beasts, [and] lazy gluttons.” 36

36

Cretans are always liars, wicked beasts, [and] lazy gluttons: The quotation is thought by some to be from Epimenides of the sixth century BCE. If Paul had made the statement it might be accused as being a racist or possessed of ethnic prejudice, but he quotes their own ancient prophet. Paul demonstrates his wide knowledge. Obviously this is a generalization otherwise it would be useless for Titus to continue his work there among the Christian congregations contain Cretans.

Titus 1:13-16 – Health through Reproof

TI1:13 This confession is true. For this reason reprove them with severity, 37 that they may be healthy in the Faith. 38

37

For this reason reprove them with severity: Or, KJV: wherefore rebuke them sharply; GDS: correct them rigorously; KNX: be strict, then, in taking them to task. He speaks particularly of Cretan teachers. [See notes on Titus 1:9; 2 Corinthians 13:10; see notes on Ephesians 5:11.] It seems clear that Titus was not to permit the congregations to freely flow “with every wind of teaching.” [See notes on Ephesians 4:14.]

38	They may be healthy in the Faith: Or, KNX: may be soundly established. Some persons will only remain healthy in faith with stiff reproof. Such reproof is also a protection for the congregations themselves. See “healthy faith” in the notes on Titus 2:2.

TI1:14 Do not pay attention to Jewish myths 39 and human commandments which turn [others] away from the truth. 40

39

Do not pay attention to Jewish myths: Or, KJV: fables; TCNT: legends; GDSP: Jewish fiction; PME: fairy tales. Compare the notes on 2 Peter 1:16. [1 Timothy 4:7; 2 Timothy 4:4] Virtually all of Paul’s letters deal with the danger of false and deceptive teachings which manifest themselves in a variety of ways. The Greek word MYTHOIS [Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance #3454, speech, narrative, fiction, falsehood] has a wider meaning that the English “myth.”

40

Human commandments which turn [others] away from the truth: Or, KJV: commandments of men that turn from the truth; MOF: rules laid down by men who have discarded. Here is the danger that concerns Paul: being turned away from the truth. [Compare notes on 2 Thessalonians 2:10-12] After two thousand years the whole Church has become fermented with erroneous doctrine leading to the Master’s fields being over-run with weeds, the children of the Devil. [See notes on Matthew 13:33, 38.] Jesus condemned the religious hierarchy of his day for the same thing. [See notes on Matthew 15:6-9.] Thus, the true elder must have a firm understanding and background in the teachings of the Nazarene and his inspired disciples.

TI1:15 Everything is pure to the pure; but, to the defiled and faithless, nothing is pure, 41 but rather both their mind and conscience have been defiled. 42

41

Everything is pure to the pure; but, to the defiled and faithless, nothing is pure: Or, KJV: unto the pure all things are pure; TCNT: everything is pure to the pure-minded; TAY: a person who is pure of heart sees goodness and purity in everything; RHM: polluted and faithless; GDS: evil-minded and unbelieving; NEB: nothing is pure to the tainted minds of disbelievers; TAY: finds evil in everything. See notes on Romans 14:14. The context may refer to Jewish dietary restrictions. Some Greek philosophers viewed anything material as unclean. [See notes on Matthew 15:19, 20 and what the Nazarene considered defiled.]

42

Both their mind and conscience have been defiled: Or, MON: minds and consciences are tainted; TAY: for his dirty mind and rebellious heart color all he sees and hears. This may allude to some of the ideas these Cretan teachers were spreading. The “weak” conscience is defiled. [1 Corinthians 8:7; 1 Timothy 1:5]

TI1:16 They profess to know God but they deny Him by their works. 43 They are detestable and disobedient 44 and unfit for any kind of good work. 45

43	They profess to know God but they deny Him by their works: Or, BEC: openly claim; WEY: actions they disown; KNX: their practice contradicts; PME: actual behavior denies their profession. Hypocrisy still fills the Church. [See notes on Matthew 7:16; Philippians 1:17; 2 Timothy 3:2, 5.]

44	Detestable and disobedient: Or, KJV: abominable; PME: vile and rebellious; NEB: detestable obstinacy. Paul does not mince words when it comes to these teachers.

45	Unfit for any kind of good work: Or, KJV: unto every good work reprobate; BER: unfit for any good enterprise; PME: and when it comes to doing any real good they are palpable frauds. The Church must have attracted all kinds of misfits who sought to take advantage of the guileless. [2 Timothy 3:8]

Summary of Chapter One

Paul introduces his letter by a description of his own work as well as how he feels about Titus. Paul’s reason for leaving Titus in Crete was three-fold: to make corrections within the congregations, appoint qualified elders, and to reprove opposers. Paul lists about 15 qualifications before a man could become an elder in the Church.

Paul exhorts Titus to shut the mouths of these deceivers. By such reproof Titus could protect entire households. Paul quotes a Cretan prophet regarding the general disposition of these men. Paul gives strong counsel to Titus regarding these Cretan teachers. These may be identified by impurity and defilements.

Review Questions on Chapter One