OET interlinear TIT 2:1

2:1

But as for you, speak the things that are consistent with sound doctrine: The Greek word that the BSB translates as But here indicates contrast. In 1:10–16 Paul had written about the behavior of the false teachers. Here Paul began to instruct Titus on how he should teach. He should teach differently from the false teachers.

Here are some other ways to translate this verse:

You, however, must teach what is appropriate to sound doctrine. (NIV)

For your part, what you say must be in keeping with sound doctrine. (REB)

But you must teach what agrees with sound doctrine. (GNT)

But as for you: The Greek pronoun that the BSB translates as you is singular and refers to Titus. In Greek the presence of a separate pronoun like this usually expressed emphasis. Consider how you might translate this to show emphasis. Since this is the start of a new chapter and section it might be helpful to include Titus’ name.

Here are some other ways to translate this phrase:

But you (NCV)

As for you, Titus (NLT)

speak: In Greek this is a command in the present tense. It indicates that Titus should continue to speak or communicate in a certain way. Because this verb is followed by instructions for how other people should behave, several English versions translate it as “teach.”

Here are some other ways to translate this phrase:

teach (NIV)

tell (GW)

communicate (NET)

the things: The Greek word that the BSB translates as the things is an indefinite word that here refers in general to teachings about the behaviors Paul wanted Titus to encourage.

Here are some other ways to translate it:

the teachings

those matters

that are consistent with: The Greek word that the BSB translates as are consistent with means “agrees with” or “are in accord with.” Titus’ teachings should not be just his own ideas but should be consistent with true doctrine, the doctrine that Paul had taught him.

Here are some other ways to translate this word:

agrees with (GNT)

is in accord with (NIV)

sound doctrine: The Greek word that the BSB translates as sound means “healthy, wholesome.” Here it is used figuratively to describe a body of teaching that is true or correct. This kind of teaching is spiritually health-giving. It helps believers to be strong in their faith and to behave in a way that is consistent with their faith.

The same Greek phrase translated here as sound doctrine occurs also in 1:9 where the BSB translated it as “sound teaching.” Try to translate it the same way in both places.

doctrine: The Greek word that the BSB translates as doctrine is more literally “teaching/instruction.” Here it refers to the true teaching about Jesus.