Section Summary

The Purpose of Studying Titus

Titus is a letter from the apostle Paul to his protégé, whom he left on the island of Crete to establish leadership within the churches there. As with all Scripture, we approach this book by:

• Interpreting it within the full context of the Bible.
• Looking for the themes that reveal Jesus, the central figure of all Scripture.
• Applying its teachings to the modern church and to our lives as believers.
• Equipping students to become disciples who carry the gospel into their communities.

This study also acknowledges that Paul’s writings often contain topics that have sparked debate within the church. These are typically housekeeping issues—important for doctrine and practice, but not salvific. Our commitment at Another12 is to present both sides of major interpretive disagreements, encouraging you to return to Scripture, pray, and seek truth with humility.

Paul’s Authority as an Apostle (Titus 1:1)

Paul opens the letter by identifying himself as “a servant of God and an apostle of Jesus Christ.” This establishes his authority. The term apostle can be understood in two ways:

• Narrow definition: One of the original twelve who walked with Jesus.
• Broad definition: A messenger or missionary sent out with the gospel.

Paul uses the narrow definition here. Though he did not walk with Jesus during His earthly ministry, Paul was directly called by the risen Christ and placed into the apostolic office with the same authority, revelation, and power as the original twelve.

Paul explains that his calling was “for the sake of the faith of God’s elect and their knowledge of the truth which accords with godliness.” The term elect is accurate and biblical, but here it is used in the broader sense: all who are saved and all who will be saved through hearing the gospel.

The Eternal Plan of God (Titus 1:2–3)

Paul roots the hope of eternal life in the character of God—“who never lies”—and in a promise made “before the ages began.” This means:

• Salvation was not a reaction to Adam and Eve’s sin.
• God was not scrambling for a plan.
• Redemption was His eternal purpose from before the foundation of the world.

Jesus affirms this in His priestly prayer:

“Father, I desire that they also, whom you have given me, may be with me where I am… because you loved me before the foundation of the world.” (John 17:24–25)

At the proper time, God manifested this plan through His Word—both the written Scriptures and the living Word, Jesus Christ (John 1:1–5). Through preaching, Paul was entrusted with making this eternal plan known.

Paul’s Relationship to Titus (Titus 1:4)

Paul calls Titus “my true child in a common faith.” This is remarkable considering Paul’s former life as a Pharisee who viewed Gentiles as spiritually inferior. The gospel transformed him so deeply that he now sees Titus—a Gentile—as his true son in the faith.

This relationship models discipleship for us today. Those who lead students or small groups are investing in spiritual sons and daughters, raising them up to be disciple‑makers who carry the gospel with conviction.

Paul’s blessing—“Grace and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Savior”—extends to all believers today.

Titus’ Mission in Crete (Titus 1:5)

Paul left Titus in Crete “to put what remained into order and appoint elders in every town.” Early churches often lacked structure, and false teachers frequently infiltrated congregations. Paul’s written letter served as a public, authoritative endorsement of Titus’ leadership when read aloud in the gatherings.

With this authority established, Paul gives Titus the qualifications for appointing elders.

Qualifications for Elders (Titus 1:6–9)

The terms elder, pastor, bishop, and overseer all refer to the same office—a shepherding role marked by servant leadership, doctrinal integrity, and moral purity. Because elders steward the Bride of Christ, their qualifications are intentionally high.

1. Character Requirements

An elder must be:

• Above reproach — having a reputation free from accusations of misconduct.
• Sexually pure — “the husband of one wife,” meaning faithful and morally upright.
• A faithful leader at home — children in the household must be believers and not rebellious.

2. Debated Interpretations of Marriage and Divorce

Churches differ on how “husband of one wife” applies:

• Some say elders may never remarry, even after a spouse’s death.
• Others allow remarriage after death but not after divorce.
• Some permit remarriage after divorce if the divorce occurred before conversion.
• Others say divorce does not affect eligibility at all.

Another12 holds the conservative view: remarriage after the death of a spouse is permitted; remarriage after divorce disqualifies a man from eldership. This position is rooted in Malachi’s teaching that divorce “covers one’s garment with violence,” and the belief that such a mark is incompatible with stewarding Christ’s bride.

3. Gender and the Office of Elder

This topic has become controversial in recent years. Two major passages shape the discussion:

Galatians 3:28 — Equality in Christ

Some argue that because all believers are equal in Christ, the office of elder is open to both men and women.

1 Timothy 2:8–15 — Order in the Church

Others argue that Paul restricts teaching and authority over men in the gathered church to qualified men only.

Another12 holds the conservative interpretation: the office of elder is reserved for qualified men, while all other areas of ministry remain open to both men and women.

This position is further supported by 1 Corinthians 14:33b-34. “As in all the churches of the saints, the women should keep silent in the churches. For they are not permitted to speak, but should be in submission, as the Law also says.”

4. Additional Character Requirements

An elder must not be:

• Arrogant
• Quick‑tempered
• A drunkard
• Violent
• Greedy for gain

Instead, he must be:

• Hospitable
• A lover of good
• Self‑controlled
• Upright
• Holy
• Disciplined

5. Doctrinal Responsibilities

An elder must:

• Hold firm to the trustworthy Word.
• Teach sound doctrine.
• Rebuke those who contradict it.

This requires courage, conviction, and a willingness to confront false teaching.

A Standard for All Believers

While these qualifications apply specifically to elders, they also serve as a model for every Christian. All believers should pursue holiness, integrity, doctrinal clarity, and a life that reflects the truth of God’s Word.

Closing Reflection

Titus 1:1-9 lays a foundation for understanding God’s eternal plan, the authority of Scripture, the nature of discipleship, and the structure of the church. It calls leaders to a high standard and commands all believers to walk in godliness, truth, and hope.