The Book of Titus

Paul writes to Titus, his child in the faith (1:1-4) to give him instructions on setting things in order (1:5) for the churches.  He thus gives to Titus qualifications for elders (1:5-9) and warns them against the Cretan error (1:10-16).  As the elders are above reproach and teach that which accords with sound doctrine, so the people of the church will follow in sound doctrine and right practice (2:1-10; cf. 1:9).  Unlike the foolish controversies which approach the law from a way contrary to the gospel (1:10-16), believers by having the solid foundation of salvation, wait for their blessed hope and walk in purity, not sensuality (2:11-15).  Before Paul gives his final greetings and asks for grace to be with them (3:12), he reminds them to be devoted to good works which is based on the salvation wrought because of God’s loving kindness (3:1-11).