Structure of the Book of Titus

Biblical Truth (Salvation) and Practical Application

The Book of Titus is a letter from Paul to Titus, instructing him on how to establish and manage the churches in Crete. The letter is structured around two key themes: Biblical Truth (Salvation) and Practical Application. Paul emphasizes that Christian faith (truth) must be reflected in godly living (practice).

I. Biblical Truth (Salvation)

1. The Mission of the Apostle and the Foundation of Salvation (1:1-4)

  • Paul introduces himself as a servant of God and an apostle of Jesus Christ, aiming to strengthen believers so that their faith aligns with godly living.

  • The foundation of salvation lies in God’s promise (1:2), which grants eternal life and was determined before the creation of the world.

2. The Grace of God that Brings Salvation (2:11-14)

  • The grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation and teaching us to reject ungodliness and to live godly lives (2:11-12).

  • Jesus Christ gave Himself for us to redeem us and to purify us as His own people, eager to do good works (2:13-14).

3. Salvation by Justification Through Faith (3:3-7)

  • We were once foolish, disobedient, and enslaved by sinful desires, but God's salvation came to us—not because of our righteous deeds, but because of His mercy (3:3-5).

  • This salvation comes through the rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, making us justified by faith and heirs of eternal life (3:6-7).

II. Practical Application (Godly Living)

1. Appointing Elders and Establishing Church Order (1:5-16)

  • Titus was instructed to appoint elders who meet godly qualifications (1:5-9), ensuring they uphold sound doctrine and live holy lives.

  • False teachers must be confronted, as they are rebellious, deceitful, and motivated by personal gain (1:10-16).

2. Guidelines for Different Groups of Believers (2:1-10)

  • Older Men (2:2): Should be temperate, dignified, and sound in faith.

  • Older Women (2:3-5): Should live reverently and teach younger women to love their husbands and children.

  • Young Men (2:6-8): Should be self-controlled, setting an example in speech and behavior.

  • Slaves (2:9-10): Should be obedient and trustworthy, reflecting God’s teaching through their actions.

3. How Christians Should Live Out Their Faith (3:1-2, 8-11)

  • They should submit to rulers, do good, avoid slander, and be gentle toward others (3:1-2).

  • Believers must persist in doing good and avoid foolish arguments and divisions (3:8-11).

Conclusion: Faith and Practice Go Hand in Hand

The Book of Titus clearly presents two key aspects of the Christian faith:

  1. The Truth of Salvation (The Foundation of Faith): Emphasizing God’s grace and Christ’s redemption.

  2. Godly Living (The Practice of Faith): Faith is not merely intellectual knowledge but must be lived out daily.

This letter reminds us that true Christian faith must encompass both sound theological doctrine (salvation) and practical godly living (application).