Introduction

The author

Paul

The recipient

Titos, often spelt (wrongly) as ‘Titus’ in English translations, wasn’t a Jew and didn’t originally believe in God. However, in later times he became a believer and from there, he became a helper in Paul’s work. This letter was sent by Paul there to Titos in Crete where he had been left to look after a group of believers. (Crete is an island that was a part of Greece.)

This letter

There are three main things contained in this letter: Firstly Titos is reminded about what is appropriate behaviour for teachers of believers. It was important that he understand this because those from Crete had many undesirable customs and there were many teachers of false doctrines that would confuse believers.

Secondly Titos was advised Titos how to teach the various groups of believers there, including young men and slaves, along with older men and women. (Then those older women were to teach the younger women.)

Finally Paul advised Titos about how believers should live, including avoiding attacking others, arguing, and splitting the believers into opposing groups. Paul reminded Titos again to follow the teachings of Yeshua the messiah and obey what he commanded us.

Paul wanted it to be known that it’s very important for believers to behave well (1:6; 2:7,14; 3:1,8-9,14) even though doing good things can’t earn their salvation (3:5).

This is still a very early look into the unfinished text of the Open English Translation of the Bible. Please double-check the text in advance before using in public.