Titus 2:7 - Printer Friendly

ESV: Show yourself in all respects to be a model of good works, and in your teaching show integrity, dignity,

NIV: In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness

NASB: in all things show yourself to be an example of good deeds, with purity in doctrine, dignified,

CSB: in everything. Make yourself an example of good works with integrity and dignity in your teaching.

NLT: And you yourself must be an example to them by doing good works of every kind. Let everything you do reflect the integrity and seriousness of your teaching.

KJV: In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine shewing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity,

NKJV: in all things showing yourself to be a pattern of good works; in doctrine showing integrity, reverence, incorruptibility,

Young men are instructed to live as clear examples in two general areas: their good works and their teaching. Here again, Paul's words to Titus resemble his advice to Timothy. Paul had instructed Timothy to study carefully so that others could see his spiritual growth, convicting others and leading them to Christ (1 Timothy 4:15–16).

Verse 7 also begins a list of traits associated with proper teaching. First, the teaching of the young men, including Titus, must show integrity. This command uses the Greek word aphthorian, in a form which the New Testament only uses in this verse. It refers to soundness or incorruptibility. The second trait, "dignity," includes the ideas of honor and respect. Paul often encouraged people to live with respect for others (Romans 13:7), inspiring respect from others (1 Timothy 3:2), including the way they dress (1 Timothy 2:9), treat their spouses (Ephesians 5:33) and their church leaders (1 Thessalonians 5:12).

Titus 2:1–10 is Paul’s instructions to Titus, regarding the way various groups within the church should be coached. It includes specific instructions for older men and women, younger men and women, and servants. Titus is to encourage traits such as faithfulness, respectfulness, dignity, and self-control. Living this way not only draws others to Christ, it leaves critics with no room to attack our faith.

Titus chapter 2 details instructions for various groups within the church. These include older men, older women, younger men, and younger women. Paul commands Titus to encourage these positive behaviors, and to correct anything which contradicts his teachings. Titus is also told to be bold, and authoritative, in his work.

Chapter 2 forms a bridge in the middle of Paul’s letter to Titus. Chapter 1 focused on the character traits of a church leader, contrasted to the immoral culture of Crete. Chapter 2 explains the ideal traits of church members, especially in their acts towards each other. Chapter 3 will focus on the relationship between Christians and their surrounding culture.

The book of Titus is a letter written by the apostle Paul, to a Christian leader on the island of Crete. This is one of Paul’s three Pastoral Epistles, where he offers instructions to younger believers caring for large groups of others. Paul uses the book of Titus to emphasize the importance of selecting church elders carefully. Many of the topics discussed in Titus are mentioned elsewhere in the New Testament. Though the details of this message are specifically for Titus, and the believers of Crete, they offer insight useful for churches today.

Accessed 11/21/2024 1:01:37 PM