Studying Paul’s Letter to Titus:

Paul’s instruction to Titus is excellent! Specifically, in chapter 3, it feels like Paul is reading directly to us. It’s packed with encouragement and exhortation that makes you want to stand at attention and say, “Yes sir!”

Titus is rich in theology, but also rich in applicable take-home instruction.

Titus 3:1-8

“Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good, 2 to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and always to be gentle toward everyone. 3 At one time we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another.4 But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, 5 he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, 6 whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, 7 so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life. 8 This is a trustworthy saying. And I want you to stress these things, so that those who have trusted in God may be careful to devote themselves to doing what is good. These things are excellent and profitable for everyone.”

Paul’s Trustworthy Saying

Paul has given Titus a number of key instructions, but let’s not forget his “trustworthy saying” according to verse 8. We have “been justified by his grace…having the hope of eternal life.” Part of our sanctification process is to address some of the dos and don’ts in our lives.

But let’s not get bogged down in the works. Justification happens before the sanctification begins. We have been justified by Christ’s grace.

It’s great to follow instructions as part of our sanctification process. However, our salvation is not dependent on how many instructions we have followed. That might seem like a given for some, but I felt like it was important to highlight before digging into the study questions.

Study Questions:

1. What do you think of when you hear the words, “Pagan Culture”?
2. What does “Pagan Culture” look like in our Western Society?
3. What do you know about Greco-Roman Pagan Culture? What kind of people would Titus be working with?
4. As Christians, do we have a duty to be law-abiding and keep the peace? If so, what impact can that have?
5. Paul speaks of peace, consideration, and gentleness. Do you know anyone like this? If so, what impact do they have on the church and our world?
6. Think about your past life (before Christ). What has changed? How are you different?
7. In your own words, what does “sanctification” mean?
8. Where are you in your sanctification? How have you grown spiritually lately? In what areas do you want to grow?
9. Why do you think so many people consider good works as a part of salvation? How can we help them understand salvation?

Join the Conversation; Share Your Thoughts

What comes to your mind when you hear big theological words like sanctification and justification?
Why are these words important to you?