Titus 3

1 Put them in mind to be in subjection to rulers, to authorities, to be obedient, to be ready unto every good work,2 to speak evil of no man, not to be contentious, to be gentle, showing all meekness toward all men.3 For we also once were foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving divers lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, hating one another.4 But when the kindness of God our Saviour, and his love toward man, appeared,5 not by works done in righteousness, which we did ourselves, but according to his mercy he saved us, through the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit,6 which he poured out upon us richly, through Jesus Christ our Saviour;7 that, being justified by his grace, we might be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life.8 Faithful is the saying, and concerning these things I desire that thou affirm confidently, to the end that they who have believed God may be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable unto men:9 but shun foolish questionings, and genealogies, and strifes, and fightings about law; for they are unprofitable and vain.10 A factious man after a first and second admonition refuse;11 knowing that such a one is perverted, and sinneth, being self-condemned.12 When I shall send Artemas unto thee, or Tychicus, give diligence to come unto me to Nicopolis: for there I have determined to winter.13 Set forward Zenas the lawyer and Apollos on their journey diligently, that nothing be wanting unto them.14 And let our people also learn to maintain good works for necessary uses, that they be not unfruitful.15 All that are with me salute thee. Salute them that love us in faith. Grace be with you all.

Titus 3

Conduct Toward Those Outside the Church

1 Remind them to be subject to rulers ands authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good work.2 They must not slandert anyone, but be peaceable, gentle, showing complete courtesy to all people.3 For we too were once foolish, disobedient, misled, enslaved to various passions and desires, spending our lives in evil and envy, hateful and hating one another.4 t But “when the kindness of God our Savior and his love for mankind appeared,5 he saved us not by works of righteousness that we have done but on the basis of his mercy, through the washing of the new birth and the renewing of the Holy Spirit,6 whom he poured out on us in full measuret through Jesus Christ our Savior.

7 And so,t since we have been justified by his grace, we become heirs with the confident expectation of eternal life.”t

Summary of the Letter

8 This sayings is trustworthy, and I want you to insist on such truths,t so that those who have placed their faith in God may be intent on engaging in good works. These things are good and beneficial for all people.9 But avoid foolish controversies, genealogies,t quarrels, and fights about the law,s because they are useless and empty.10 Reject a divisive person after one or two warnings.

11 You knowt that such a person is twisted by sint and is conscious of it himself.t

Final Instructions and Greeting

12 When I send Artemas or Tychicus to you, do your best to come to me at Nicopolis, for I have decided to spend the winter there.13 Make every effort to helpt Zenas the lawyert and Apollos on their way; make sure they have what they need.t14 Here is another way that our peoplet can learnt to engage in good works to meet pressing needs and so not be unfruitful.

15 Everyone with me greets you. Greet those who love us in the faith.t Grace be with you all.s