The Letter of Paul to Titus

A NT letter and one of the three “Pastoral Letters” purported to have been written by the apostle Paul to his associates in Christian mission (cf. 1 and 2 Timothy). Many scholars think the letter was actually written by followers of Paul after his death. In any event, it addresses the growing problem of false teaching in the church and encourages the role of ecclesiastical authorities in guarding believers from moral and doctrinal error.

Outline of Contents

Titus

I. Prescript, with summary of Paul’s calling “to further the faith of the elect” (Titus 1:1-4)

II. Instructions (Titus 1:5-3:8)

A. Concerning elders, and office of bishop (Titus 1:5-9)

B. Warning concerning “circumcision party”; comment on Cretans’ celebrated notoriety (Titus 1:10-16)

C. Rules for household: church members of both sexes and all ages, also slaves; example of Titus (Titus 2:1-10)

D. Sanctions for instructions: God’s grace manifested in salvation-history; former lives of many believers (Titus 2:11-3:8)

III. Conclusion (Titus 3:8-15)

A. Titus to avoid “stupid controversies”; heretics to receive special treatment (Titus 3:8-11)

B. Assignments; greetings; grace (Titus 3:12-15)