“He must hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught, so that he may be able to give instruction in sound doctrine and also to rebuke those who contradict it.”
Titus 1:9
Summary
Titus chapter 1 serves as the introduction to Paul's letter to Titus, a trusted companion and leader on the island of Crete. Paul begins by affirming his apostolic authority and his mission to further the faith and knowledge of God's truth. He emphasizes the hope of eternal life promised by God and introduces the theological importance of sound doctrine. Paul instructs Titus to appoint elders in every town, providing specific qualifications that these leaders must adhere to. These include being blameless, faithful in marriage, temperate, and sound in doctrine. Paul warns against false teachers, particularly those among the circumcision party, who were leading whole families astray with false teachings for dishonest gain. The chapter underscores the necessity of confronting such falsehoods and establishing leaders who hold firm to the trustworthy word.