Titus
Titus front
Introduction to Titus
Part 1: General Introduction
Outline of the book of Titus
- Paul instructs Titus to appoint godly leaders. (1:1-16)
- Paul instructs Titus to train people to live godly lives. (2:1-3:11)
- Paul ends by sharing some of his plans and sending greetings to various believers. (3:12-15)
Who wrote the book of Titus?
Paul wrote the book of Titus. Paul was from the city of Tarsus. He had been known as Saul in his early life. Before becoming a Christian, Paul was a Pharisee. He persecuted Christians. After he became a Christian, he traveled several times throughout the Roman Empire telling people about Jesus.
What is the book of Titus about?
Paul wrote this letter to Titus, his fellow worker, who was leading the churches on the island of Crete. Paul instructed him about selecting church leaders. Paul also described how the believers should behave towards each other. He also encouraged them all to live in a way that pleases God.
How should the title of this book be translated?
Translators may choose to call this book by its traditional title, “Titus.” Or they may choose a clearer title, such as “Paul’s Letter to Titus” or “A Letter to Titus.” (See: How to Translate Names)
Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts
In what roles can people serve within the church?
There are some teachings in the book of Titus about whether a woman or divorced man can serve in positions of leadership within the church. Scholars disagree about the meaning of these teachings. Further study on these issues may be necessary before translating this book.
Part 3: Important Translation Issues
Singular and plural you
In this book, the word I refers to Paul. Also, the word you is almost always singular and refers to Titus. The exception to this is 3:15. (See: Exclusive and Inclusive ‘We’ and Forms of You)
What is the meaning of God our Savior?
This is a common phrase in this letter. Paul meant to make the readers think about how God forgave them in Christ for sinning against him, and by forgiving them he saved them from being punished when he judges all people. A similar phrase in this letter is our great God and Savior Jesus Christ.
Titus 1
Titus 1 General Notes
Structure and formatting
Paul formally introduces this letter in verses 1-4. Writers often began letters in this way in the ancient Near East.
In verses 6-9, Paul lists several qualities that a man must have if he is to be an elder in the church. (See: https://git.door43.org/Door43-Catalog/en_ta/src/branch/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md) Paul gives a similar list in 1 Timothy 3.
Special concepts in this chapter
Elders
The church has used different titles for church leaders. Some titles include overseer, elder, pastor, and bishop.
Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter
Should, may, must
The ULT uses different words that indicate requirements or obligations. These verbs have different levels of force associated with them. The subtle differences may be difficult to translate. The UST translates these verbs in a more general way.
Titus 1:1
κατὰ πίστιν
Faith is an abstract noun. Here it refers to believing or trusting in Jesus. If it is more clear in your language, you can translate it with a verb such as these, as in the UST. Alternate translation: “to strengthen the faith” or “to help [God’s chosen people] to trust him more” (See: Abstract Nouns)
ἐπίγνωσιν
If your readers would misunderstand the abstract noun knowledge, you can use a verb such as “to know,” as in the UST. Paul wants people to know the true message about God and Christ so that they can live in a way that pleases God. (See: Abstract Nouns)
ἀληθείας
If your readers would misunderstand the abstract noun truth, you can use an adjective phrase such as “what is true” or “the true message.” Paul wants people to know the true message about God and Christ so that they can live in a way that pleases God. (See: Abstract Nouns)
τῆς κατ’ εὐσέβειαν
Here, godliness is an abstract noun that refers to living in a way that pleases God. Alternate translation: “that is suitable for honoring God” (See: Abstract Nouns)
Titus 1:2
ἐπ’ ἐλπίδι ζωῆς αἰωνίου
Alternate translation: “that gives us the certain hope of everlasting life” or “based on our certain hope for everlasting life”
πρὸ χρόνων αἰωνίων
Alternate translation: “before time began”
Titus 1:3
καιροῖς ἰδίοις
Alternate translation: “at the proper time”
ἐφανέρωσεν…τὸν λόγον αὐτοῦ
Paul speaks of God’s word as if it were an object that could be visibly shown to people. Alternate translation: “he caused me to understand his message” (See: Metaphor)
ἐν κηρύγματι
Alternate translation: “through the proclamation of the message”
ὃ ἐπιστεύθην ἐγὼ
If your language does not use this passive form, you can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “he entrusted to me” or “he gave me the responsibility to preach” (See: Active or Passive)
τοῦ Σωτῆρος ἡμῶν, Θεοῦ
Alternate translation: “of God, who saves us”
ἡμῶν
This includes Paul, Titus, and all Christians. (See: Exclusive and Inclusive ‘We’)
Titus 1:4
γνησίῳ τέκνῳ
Though Titus was not Paul’s biological son, they share a common faith in Christ. Paul considers relationship to Christ through faith to be more important than biological relationship. Thus, because of their relative ages and shared faith in Christ, Paul considers Titus as his own son. It may also be that Paul led Titus to faith in Christ, and so Titus is like a son in this spiritual sense. Alternate translation: “you are like a son to me” (See: Metaphor)
κοινὴν πίστιν
Paul and Titus both share the same faith in Christ. Alternate translation: “our belief in Christ”
χάρις καὶ εἰρήνη
This was a common greeting Paul used. You can state clearly the understood information. Alternate translation: “May you experience kindness and inner peace” (See: Ellipsis)
Χριστοῦ Ἰησοῦ τοῦ Σωτῆρος ἡμῶν
Alternate translation: “Christ Jesus who is our Savior”
ἡμῶν
This includes Paul, Titus, and all Christians. (See: Exclusive and Inclusive ‘We’)
Titus 1:5
τούτου χάριν
The connecting phrase For this purpose introduces the goal that Paul wanted to accomplish when he left Titus in Crete (to ordain elders in the church). Alternate translation: “This is the reason” (See: Connect — Goal (Purpose) Relationship)
ἀπέλιπόν σε ἐν Κρήτῃ
Alternate translation: “I told you to stay in Crete”
ἵνα τὰ λείποντα ἐπιδιορθώσῃ
Alternate translation: “so that you would finish arranging things that needed to be done”
καταστήσῃς…πρεσβυτέρους
Alternate translation: “appoint elders” or “designate elders”
πρεσβυτέρους
In the early Christian churches, Christian elders gave spiritual leadership to the assemblies of believers. This word refers to people who are mature in faith.
Titus 1:6
Having told Titus to ordain elders in every city on the island of Crete, Paul then gives the requirements for elders.
εἴ τίς ἐστιν ἀνέγκλητος
This is the beginning of the description of the character of an elder. Titus is to choose men who fit the following description. To be blameless is to be known as a person who does not do bad things. Alternate translation: “an elder must be without blame” or “an elder must not have a bad reputation”
ἀνέγκλητος
To be blameless is to be known as a person who does not do bad things. Alternate translation: “without blame” You can state this positively: “a person who has a good reputation” (See: Double Negatives)
μιᾶς γυναικὸς ἀνήρ
This means that he has only one wife; that is, he does not have any other wives or concubines. This also means that he does not commit adultery and may also mean that he has not divorced a previous wife. Alternate translation: “a man who has only one woman” or “a man who is faithful to his wife” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)
τέκνα…πιστά
This could refer to: (1) children who believe in Jesus. (2) children who are trustworthy.
Titus 1:7
τὸν ἐπίσκοπον
The word overseer is another name for the same position of spiritual leadership that Paul referred to as elder in 1:5. This term focuses on the function of the elder: he oversees the activities and people of the church.
Θεοῦ οἰκονόμον
Paul speaks of the church as if it were God’s household, and the overseer as if he were a servant in charge of managing that household. (See: Metaphor)
μὴ πάροινον
Alternate translation: “not an alcoholic” or “not one who drinks much wine”
μὴ πλήκτην
Alternate translation: “not one who is violent” or “not one who likes to fight”
Titus 1:8
ἀλλὰ
The connecting word Instead introduces a contrast between the things an elder is not to be (that Paul already stated), and the things an elder is to be (which Paul is about to state). (See: Connect — Contrast Relationship)
φιλάγαθον
Alternate translation: “a person who loves to do good”
σώφρονα…ἐγκρατῆ
These two terms are very similar in meaning and may be translated by one term if the target language does not have two similar terms. (See: Doublet)
δίκαιον, ὅσιον
These two terms are very similar in meaning and may be translated by one term if the target language does not have two similar terms. (See: Doublet)
Titus 1:9
ἀντεχόμενον
Paul speaks of devotion to the Christian faith as if it were grasping the faith with one’s hands. Alternate translation: “He must be devoted to” or “He should know well” (See: Metaphor)
κατὰ τὴν διδαχὴν
Alternate translation: “that agrees with the things that we taught him”
ἵνα
The connecting words so that introduce a goal or purpose relationship. The purpose for the elder to hold tightly to the trustworthy message is for him to be able to encourage others and rebuke those who oppose him. Use a connector in your language that makes it clear that this is the purpose. (See: Connect — Goal (Purpose) Relationship)
τῇ διδασκαλίᾳ τῇ ὑγιαινούσῃ
The Greek word rendered at sound normally refers to physical health. Paul speaks of this teaching as if it would cause those who believe it to be spiritually healthy, rather than spiritually sick.
Titus 1:10
Because of those that would oppose God’s word, Paul gives Titus reasons to preach God’s word and warns him about false teachers.
ἀνυπότακτοι, ματαιολόγοι
These are rebellious people who do not obey the gospel message. Here, empty is a metaphor for useless, and empty talkers are people who say useless or foolish things. Alternate translation: “who refuse to obey and who say useless things” (See: Metaphor)
φρεναπάται
This phrase describes people who are actively trying to convince people to believe in something other than the true gospel that Paul preaches. Alternate translation: “people who persuade others to believe things that are not true”
ματαιολόγοι, καὶ φρεναπάται
Both empty talkers and deceivers refer to the same people. They taught false, worthless things and wanted people to believe them. (See: Hendiadys)
οἱ ἐκ τῆς περιτομῆς
This refers to the Jewish Christians who taught that men must be circumcised in order to follow Christ. This teaching is false. (See: Metonymy)
Titus 1:11
οὓς δεῖ ἐπιστομίζειν
Alternate translation: “You must prevent them from spreading their teachings” or “Someone must stop them from influencing others by their words”
ὅλους οἴκους ἀνατρέπουσιν
The issue was that they were leading families away from the truth and destroying their faith. Alternate translation: “are ruining entire families”
διδάσκοντες ἃ μὴ δεῖ
These are things that are not proper to teach regarding Christ and the law because they are not true.
αἰσχροῦ κέρδους χάριν
This refers to profit that people make by doing things that are not honorable.
Titus 1:12
τις ἐξ αὐτῶν, ἴδιος αὐτῶν προφήτης
Alternate translation: “A Cretan that they themselves consider to be a prophet”
Κρῆτες ἀεὶ ψεῦσται
This is an exaggeration that means that Cretans had a reputation to be liars. Alternate translation: “Cretans lie all the time” (See: Hyperbole)
κακὰ θηρία
This metaphor compares the Cretans to dangerous wild animals. Alternate translation: “as dangerous as wild animals” (See: Metaphor)
γαστέρες ἀργαί
The part of the body that stores food is used to represent the person who eats all the time. Alternate translation: “lazy gluttons” (See: Synecdoche)
Titus 1:13
δι’ ἣν αἰτίαν ἔλεγχε αὐτοὺς ἀποτόμως
Alternate translation: “For that reason, you must use strong language that the Cretans will understand when you correct them”
δι’ ἣν αἰτίαν
The connecting words For this reason introduce a reason-result relationship. The reason is that what the Cretan prophet said about his people is true (they are liars, evil, and lazy), and the result is that Titus should rebuke them severely. (See: Connect — Reason-and-Result Relationship)
ἵνα ὑγιαίνωσιν ἐν τῇ πίστει
See note on sound in Titus 1:9. Alternate translation: “so they will have a healthy faith” or “so their faith may be true” or “so that they believe only what is true about God”
ἵνα
The connecting words so that introduce an action-purpose relationship. The action is the elder rebukes the Cretans severely, and the purpose is the Cretans become sound in the faith. (See: Connect — Goal (Purpose) Relationship)
ἐν τῇ πίστει
Here the abstract noun faith represents the things that the people believe about God. Alternate translation: “in what they believe about God” (See: Abstract Nouns)
Titus 1:14
μὴ
The connecting word not introduces a contrast to being “sound in the faith” in the previous verse. In order to be sound in the faith, the people must not pay any attention to the Jewish myths or the commands of people who do not follow the truth. (See: Connect — Contrast Relationship)
Ἰουδαϊκοῖς μύθοις
This refers to the false teaching of the Jews.
ἀποστρεφομένων τὴν ἀλήθειαν
Paul speaks of the truth as if it were an object that one could turn away from or avoid. Alternate translation: “who reject the truth” (See: Metaphor)
Titus 1:15
πάντα καθαρὰ τοῖς καθαροῖς
Alternate translation: “If people are pure on the inside, everything that they do will be pure” or “When people have only good thoughts, nothing that they do will offend God”
τοῖς καθαροῖς
Alternate translation: “to those who are acceptable to God”
δὲ
The connecting word But introduces a contrast between people who are pure and people who are corrupt and unbelieving. (See: Connect — Contrast Relationship)
τοῖς…μεμιαμμένοις καὶ ἀπίστοις, οὐδὲν καθαρόν
Paul speaks of sinners as if they were physically dirty. Alternate translation: “if people are morally defiled and do not believe, they cannot do anything pure” or “when people are full of sin and unbelief, nothing that they do is acceptable to God” (See: Metaphor)
Titus 1:16
δὲ
The connecting word but introduces a contrast between what these corrupt people say (they know God) and what their actions show (they do not know God). (See: Connect — Contrast Relationship)
τοῖς…ἔργοις ἀρνοῦνται
Alternate translation: “how they live proves that they do not know him”
βδελυκτοὶ ὄντες
Alternate translation: “They are disgusting”
Titus 2
Titus 2 General Notes
Special concepts in this chapter
Gender roles
Scholars are divided over how to understand this passage in its historical and cultural context. Some scholars believe men and women are perfectly equal in all things. Other scholars believe God created men and women to serve in distinctly different roles in marriage and the church. Translators should be careful not to let how they understand this issue affect how they translate this passage.
Slavery
Paul does not write in this chapter about whether slavery is good or bad. Paul teaches slaves to faithfully serve their masters. He teaches all believers to be godly and live rightly in every situation.
Titus 2:1
Paul continues giving Titus reasons to preach God’s word, and explains how the older men, older women, young men, and slaves or servants should live as believers.
σὺ δὲ
Here, you is singular and refers to Titus. If it is helpful, you can include the name “Titus” here, as in the UST. (Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)
τῇ ὑγιαινούσῃ διδασκαλίᾳ
See the note on Titus 1:9. Alternate translation: “with sound doctrine” or “with correct teachings”
Titus 2:2
πρεσβύτας…εἶναι
The Greek does not have are, but only “Older men to be.” We need to supply a verb here, drawing from the idea of speak in the previous verse, such as teach or exhort. Alternate translation: “Teach older men to be” (See: Ellipsis)
νηφαλίους…σεμνούς, σώφρονας
These three words are very close in meaning and may be combined into one or two terms if the target language does not have three separate terms. (See: Doublet)
νηφαλίους
Alternate translation: “sober-minded” or “self-controlled”
εἶναι…σώφρονας
Alternate translation: “to … control their desires”
ὑγιαίνοντας τῇ πίστει
Here the word sound means to be firm and unwavering. See the note about sound on Titus 1:9 and the note about sound in faith on Titus 1:13.
ὑγιαίνοντας τῇ πίστει
You can state the abstract noun faith as a verb if that is more clear in your language. Alternate translation: “firmly believe the true teachings about God” (See: Abstract Nouns)
τῇ ἀγάπῃ
You can state the abstract noun love as a verb if that is more clear in your language. Alternate translation: “truly love others” (See: Abstract Nouns)
τῇ ὑπομονῇ
You can state the abstract noun perseverance as a verb if that is more clear in your language. Alternate translation: “and continually serve God even when things are difficult” (See: Abstract Nouns)
Titus 2:3
πρεσβύτιδας ὡσαύτως
The Greek does not have are to be, but only “older women likewise.” We need to continue the verbal idea from the previous two verses and apply that here, as well, such as teach or exhort. Alternate translation: “In the same way, teach older women to be” or “Also teach older women to be” (See: Ellipsis)
διαβόλους
This word refers to people who say bad things about other people whether they are true or not.
οἴνῳ πολλῷ δεδουλωμένας
People who cannot control themselves and drink too much wine are spoken of as if they were a slave to the wine. Alternate translation: “controlled by their desire for wine” or “addicted to wine” (See: Metaphor)
οἴνῳ πολλῷ δεδουλωμένας
If your language does not use this passive form, you can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “drinking too much wine” or “addicted to wine” (See: Active or Passive)
καλοδιδασκάλους
The Greek word used here means “a teacher of what is good.” The phrase but to be has been added in the English to contrast this good quality with the two preceding bad qualities. Consider if you need to use a similar word to make a contrast between the good and bad qualities.
Titus 2:4
φιλάνδρους
Alternate translation: “lovers of their own husbands”
φιλοτέκνους
Alternate translation: “and lovers of their own children”
Titus 2:5
ὑποτασσομένας τοῖς ἰδίοις ἀνδράσιν
Alternate translation: “and to obey their own husbands”
ἵνα μὴ ὁ λόγος τοῦ Θεοῦ βλασφημῆται
Here, word is a metonym for “message.” which in turn is a metonym for God himself. (See: Metonymy)
ἵνα μὴ ὁ λόγος τοῦ Θεοῦ βλασφημῆται
If your language does not use this passive form, you can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “so that no one insults the word of God” or “so that no one insults God by saying bad things about his message” (See: Active or Passive)
Titus 2:6
ὡσαύτως
Titus was to train the younger men just as he was to train the older people.
Titus 2:7
σεαυτὸν παρεχόμενος
Alternate translation: “show yourself to be” or “you yourself must serve”
τύπον καλῶν ἔργων
Alternate translation: “as an example of one who does right and proper things”
Titus 2:8
ὑγιῆ
This word sound has the same basic meaning as “uncorrupted” in 2:7. In 2:7, Paul states the meaning negatively: “uncorrupted,” meaning, “without error,” and in 2:8 he states the meaning positively: sound, meaning “correct.” Both terms refer to Titus’ teaching. Use either positive or negative terms in the target language, or use one term with this meaning in both places if it is difficult to use two terms.
ἵνα ὁ ἐξ ἐναντίας ἐντραπῇ
This presents a hypothetical situation in which someone opposes Titus and then becomes ashamed for having done so. Alternate translation: “so that if anyone opposes you, he may be ashamed” or “so that when people oppose you, they may be ashamed” (See: Hypothetical Situations)
ἡμῶν
This includes Paul, Titus, and all Christians. (See: Exclusive and Inclusive ‘We’)
Titus 2:9
δούλους ἰδίοις δεσπόταις ὑποτάσσεσθαι
The Greek does not have are, but only “slaves to be subject to their masters.” We need to apply the verbal idea from verse 6 to here, which is “urge” or “exhort.” Alternate translation: “Exhort slaves to be subject to their masters” (See: Ellipsis)
ὑποτάσσεσθαι
Alternate translation: “must obey”
ἐν πᾶσιν
Alternate translation: “in every situation” or “always”
εὐαρέστους εἶναι
Alternate translation: “to please their masters” or “to satisfy their masters”
Titus 2:10
μὴ νοσφιζομένους
Alternate translation: “not to steal from their masters”
πᾶσαν πίστιν ἐνδεικνυμένους ἀγαθήν
Alternate translation: “to show that they are worthy of their masters’ trust”
ἐν πᾶσιν
Alternate translation: “in everything they do”
τὴν διδασκαλίαν τὴν τοῦ Σωτῆρος ἡμῶν, Θεοῦ, κοσμῶσιν
Alternate translation: “they may make the teaching about God our Savior attractive” or “they may cause people to understand that the teaching about God our Savior is good”
Σωτῆρος ἡμῶν, Θεοῦ
Alternate translation: “our God who saves us”
ἡμῶν
Here, our is inclusive of Paul, Titus, and all Christians. (See: Exclusive and Inclusive ‘We’)
Titus 2:11
Paul encourages Titus to look for Jesus’ coming and remember his authority through Jesus.
ἐπεφάνη…ἡ χάρις τοῦ Θεοῦ
Paul speaks of the grace of God as if it were a person who has arrived. See the UST for other ways to express this. Alternate translation: “God is now offering his grace” (See: Personification)
Titus 2:12
παιδεύουσα ἡμᾶς
Paul speaks of the grace of God (2:11) as if it were a person who trains other people how to live holy lives. Alternate translation: “by which God trains us” (See: Personification)
ἡμᾶς
This includes Paul, Titus, and all Christians. (See: Exclusive and Inclusive ‘We’)
τὴν ἀσέβειαν
Alternate translation: “things that dishonor God”
τὰς κοσμικὰς ἐπιθυμίας
Alternate translation: “strong desires for the things of this world” or “strong desires for sinful pleasures”
ἀσέβειαν…εὐσεβῶς
These terms are direct opposites, meaning “God-dishonoring” and “God-honoring,” respectively.
ἐν τῷ νῦν αἰῶνι
Alternate translation: “while we live in this world” or “during this time”
Titus 2:13
προσδεχόμενοι
while we wait to welcome
τὴν μακαρίαν ἐλπίδα
Here, what is blessed is that for which we hope, which is the return of Jesus Christ. Alternate translation: “the wonderful thing for which we hope” (See: Metonymy)
καὶ ἐπιφάνειαν τῆς δόξης τοῦ μεγάλου Θεοῦ καὶ Σωτῆρος ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ
Here, glory represents Jesus himself who will appear gloriously. Alternate translation: “that is, the glorious appearance of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ” (See: Metonymy)
τὴν μακαρίαν ἐλπίδα, καὶ ἐπιφάνειαν τῆς δόξης
Both blessed hope and appearing of the glory refer to the same event. This can be shown clearly. Alternate translation: “what we are longing for, the blessed and glorious appearing” (See: Hendiadys)
τοῦ μεγάλου Θεοῦ καὶ Σωτῆρος ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ
Both our great God and Savior refer to the one person, Jesus Christ. Alternate translation: “of Jesus Christ, our great God and Savior” (See: Hendiadys)
Titus 2:14
ἔδωκεν ἑαυτὸν ὑπὲρ ἡμῶν
This refers to Jesus dying willingly. Alternate translation: “gave himself to die for us” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)
ἡμῶν
This includes Paul, Titus, and all Christians. (See: Exclusive and Inclusive ‘We’)
λυτρώσηται ἡμᾶς ἀπὸ πάσης ἀνομίας
Paul speaks of Jesus as if he were setting slaves free from their evil master. (See: Metaphor)
ἡμᾶς
This includes Paul, Titus, and all Christians. (See: Exclusive and Inclusive ‘We’)
λαὸν περιούσιον
Alternate translation: “a group of people that he treasures”
ζηλωτὴν καλῶν ἔργων
Alternate translation: “who are eager to do good deeds”
Titus 2:15
παρακάλει
Alternate translation: “encourage them to do these things”
ἔλεγχε, μετὰ πάσης ἐπιταγῆς
If it is helpful, the people whom Titus should correct can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “correct with all authority those people who do not do these things” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)
μηδείς σου περιφρονείτω
Alternate translation: “Do not allow anyone to ignore you”
μηδείς σου περιφρονείτω
You can state this positively: “Make sure that everyone listens to you” (See: Double Negatives)
σου περιφρονείτω
The way that people would disregard Titus can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “Let … refuse to listen to your words” or “Let … refuse to respect you” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)
Titus 3
Titus 3 General Notes
Structure and formatting
Paul gives Titus personal instructions in this chapter.
Verse 15 formally concludes this letter. This is a common way of ending a letter in the ancient Near East.
Special concepts in this chapter
Genealogies
Genealogies (verse 9) are lists that record a person’s ancestors or descendants, and show from what tribe and family a person came. For example, priests came from the tribe of Levi and the family of Aaron. Some of these lists included stories of ancestors and even of spiritual beings. These lists and stories were used to argue about where things came from and about how important various people were.
Titus 3:1
Paul continues giving Titus instructions on how to teach the elders and people under his care in Crete.
ὑπομίμνῃσκε αὐτοὺς…ὑποτάσσεσθαι
Alternate translation: “Tell our people again what they already know, to submit” or “Keep reminding them to submit”
ἀρχαῖς, ἐξουσίαις, ὑποτάσσεσθαι, πειθαρχεῖν
Alternate translation: “to do as the political rulers and government authorities say by obeying them”
ἀρχαῖς, ἐξουσίαις
These words have similar meanings and both refer to anyone who holds authority in the government. If the target language has only one term for this, then just use that term. (See: Doublet)
ὑποτάσσεσθαι, πειθαρχεῖν
These words have similar meanings and both refer to doing what someone tells you to do. If the target language has only one term for this, then just use that term. (See: Doublet)
πρὸς πᾶν ἔργον ἀγαθὸν ἑτοίμους εἶναι
Alternate translation: “to be ready to do good whenever there is opportunity”
Titus 3:2
βλασφημεῖν
Alternate translation: “to speak evil of”
ἀμάχους εἶναι
You can state this positively: “to be peaceful” (See: Double Negatives)
Titus 3:3
ἦμεν γάρ ποτε καὶ ἡμεῖς
Alternate translation: “This is because we ourselves were once”
ποτε
Alternate translation: “formerly” or “at some time” or “previously”
ἡμεῖς
This includes Paul, Titus, and all Christians, referring to the time before they trusted in Christ. Alternate translation: “even we” or “we ourselves” (See: Exclusive and Inclusive ‘We’)
ἦμεν…ἀνόητοι
Alternate translation: “were thoughtless” or “were unwise”
πλανώμενοι, δουλεύοντες ἐπιθυμίαις καὶ ἡδοναῖς ποικίλαις
Passion and pleasure are spoken of as if they were masters over people and had made those people into slaves by lying to them. Alternate translation: “We had allowed ourselves to believe the lie that various passions and pleasures could make us happy, and then we were unable to control our feelings or stop doing things we thought would give us pleasure” (See: Personification)
πλανώμενοι, δουλεύοντες ἐπιθυμίαις καὶ ἡδοναῖς ποικίλαις
You can translate this in active form. Alternate translation: “Various passions and pleasures had lied to us and so led us astray” (See: Active or Passive)
ἐπιθυμίαις
Alternate translation: “lusts” or “desires”
ἐν κακίᾳ καὶ φθόνῳ διάγοντες
Here, evil and envy describe sin. The word evil is general and envy is a specific kind of sin. Alternate translation: “We were always doing evil things and wanting what others have”
στυγητοί
Alternate translation: “causing others to hate us”
Titus 3:4
δὲ
It is important to mark the contrast here between the evil way that people are (verses 1-3) and the goodness of God (verses 4-7) (See: Connect — Contrast Relationship)
ὅτε…ἡ χρηστότης καὶ ἡ φιλανθρωπία ἐπεφάνη τοῦ Σωτῆρος ἡμῶν, Θεοῦ
Paul speaks of God’s kindness and love as if they were people that came into our sight. Alternate translation: “when God our Savior showed us his kindness and love for people” (See: Personification)
ὅτε…ἡ χρηστότης καὶ ἡ φιλανθρωπία ἐπεφάνη τοῦ Σωτῆρος ἡμῶν, Θεοῦ
You can state the abstract nouns kindness and love as adjectives. Alternate translation: “when God, who saves us, showed how kind and loving he would be to mankind” (See: Abstract Nouns)
ἡμῶν
This includes Paul, Titus, and all Christians. (See: Exclusive and Inclusive ‘We’)
Titus 3:5
κατὰ τὸ αὐτοῦ ἔλεος
Alternate translation: “because he had mercy on us”
λουτροῦ παλινγενεσίας
Paul combines two metaphors here. He is speaking of God’s forgiveness for sinners as if he were physically washing them clean from their sin. He is also speaking of sinners who become responsive to God as if they had been born again. (See: Metaphor)
Titus 3:6
οὗ ἐξέχεεν ἐφ’ ἡμᾶς πλουσίως
It is common for New Testament writers to speak of the Holy Spirit as a liquid that God can pour out in large amounts. Alternate translation: “whom God gave to us generously” (See: Metaphor)
ἡμᾶς
This includes Paul, Titus, and all Christians. (See: Exclusive and Inclusive ‘We’)
διὰ Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ, τοῦ Σωτῆρος ἡμῶν
Alternate translation: “when Jesus Christ saved us”
ἡμῶν
This includes Paul, Titus, and all Christians. (See: Exclusive and Inclusive ‘We’)
Titus 3:7
δικαιωθέντες
If your language does not use this passive form, you can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “since God has declared us to be without sin” (See: Active or Passive)
κληρονόμοι γενηθῶμεν, κατ’ ἐλπίδα ζωῆς αἰωνίου
The people to whom God has made promises are spoken of as if they were to inherit the things promised, just as a person inherits property or possessions from a family member. Alternate translation: “we might expect to receive the eternal life that God has promised us” (See: Metaphor)
Titus 3:8
ὁ λόγος
This message is the one just expressed in verses 4-7, that God freely gives the Holy Spirit and eternal life to believers through Jesus.
τούτων
This refers to the teachings that Paul has talked about in verses 1-7. Alternate translation: “these teachings that I have just talked about”
φροντίζωσιν καλῶν ἔργων, προΐστασθαι
Alternate translation: “may seek to do good works”
Titus 3:9
Paul explains what Titus should avoid and how to treat those who cause contention among the believers.
δὲ…περιΐστασο
Alternate translation: “So avoid” or “Therefore, avoid”
μωρὰς…ζητήσεις
Alternate translation: “arguments concerning unimportant matters”
γενεαλογίας
This is the study of family kinship relationships. See the Introduction to Titus.
ἔρεις
arguments or fights
νομικὰς
Alternate translation: “about the law of Moses”
Titus 3:10
αἱρετικὸν ἄνθρωπον…παραιτοῦ
Alternate translation: “Stay away from a person who causes division”
μετὰ μίαν καὶ δευτέραν νουθεσίαν
Alternate translation: “after you have warned that person once or twice”
Titus 3:11
ὁ τοιοῦτος
Alternate translation: “a person like that”
ἐξέστραπται
Paul speaks of someone who chooses to do wrong things as if he were leaving the right path to walk in the wrong direction. (See: Metaphor)
ὢν αὐτοκατάκριτος
Alternate translation: “bringing judgment on himself”
Titus 3:12
Paul closes the letter by telling Titus what to do after he appoints elders in Crete and by giving greetings from those with him.
ὅταν πέμψω
Alternate translation: “After I send”
Ἀρτεμᾶν…Τυχικόν
These are men’s names. (See: How to Translate Names)
σπούδασον ἐλθεῖν
Alternate translation: “come quickly”
σπούδασον
The verb is singular and directed at Titus alone. Artemas or Tychicus would stay in Crete, probably to take Titus’ place.
παραχειμάσαι
Alternate translation: “to stay for the winter”
Titus 3:13
Ζηνᾶν…Ἀπολλῶν
These are men’s names. (See: How to Translate Names)
καὶ Ἀπολλῶν
Alternate translation: “and also Apollos”
σπουδαίως πρόπεμψον
Alternate translation: “Do not delay in sending”
ἵνα μηδὲν αὐτοῖς λείπῃ
You can state this positively: “so that they have everything that they need” (See: Double Negatives)
Titus 3:14
Paul explains that it is important for all believers to provide for those who have needs.
οἱ ἡμέτεροι
Paul is referring to the believers in Crete. Alternate translation: “our own people”
οἱ ἡμέτεροι
Here, our includes Paul and Titus. The form should be either dual or inclusive. (See: Exclusive and Inclusive ‘We’)
εἰς τὰς ἀναγκαίας χρείας
Alternate translation: “that enable them to help people who lack necessary things”
ἵνα μὴ ὦσιν ἄκαρποι
Paul speaks of people doing good work as if they were trees bearing good fruit. Alternate translation: “so that they will not lead useless lives” (See: Metaphor)
ἵνα μὴ ὦσιν ἄκαρποι
You can state this positively: “in this way they will be fruitful” or “in this way they will be productive” (See: Double Negatives)
Titus 3:15
Paul ends his letter to Titus.
ἀσπάζονταί σε
Here, you is singular. This is a personal greeting to Titus.
οἱ μετ’ ἐμοῦ πάντες
Alternate translation: “All the people who are with me” or “All of the believers who are here with me”
τοὺς φιλοῦντας ἡμᾶς ἐν πίστει
This could refer to: (1) the believers who love us. (2) the believers who love us because we share the same belief.
ἡμᾶς
Here, us is probably exclusive and refers to Paul and the group of Christians with him. Paul is sending greetings from this group to the group of Christians that is with Titus on Crete. (See: Exclusive and Inclusive ‘We’)
ἡ χάρις μετὰ πάντων ὑμῶν
This was a common Christian greeting. Alternate translation: “May God’s grace be with you” or “I ask that God will be gracious to all of you”
ὑμῶν
Here, you is plural. This blessing is for Titus and all of the believers there in Crete.