Unger's Bible Dictionary: Titus

TITUS, EPISTLE TO

TITUS. An epistle of Paul written to his trusted companion Titus, who had been left as superintendent of the churches on the island of Crete. Like the first epistle to Timothy, this letter had as its purpose to give the young pastor instructions to aid him in his work.

Occasion and Date. Paul was led to pen this epistle because of the condition of Christian work on the island of Crete, the need of Titus for help, and the fact that Zenas and Apollos were going to the island. The apostle himself had begun to organize the work in this field but had to leave before the task was finished. The entrance of false teaching in the form of legalism necessitated a strong stand for the truth. In his task Titus needed clear instruction as well as encouragement. When Zenas and Apollos planned a journey through Crete, Paul sent Titus this letter to help and encourage him (Titus 3:13). The thought and style of this epistle resemble 1 Timothy more than 2 Timothy. The date of its composition was, therefore, around A.D. 65 AD.

Purpose. (1) After an extended greeting, Titus 1:1-4, Paul urges Titus to complete the organization of the work in Crete, 1:5. (2) Paul reviews the requirements of elders, 1:6-9. (3) He urges a strong position against false teachers, 1:10-16. (4) He gives instruction concerning the various classes in home relations, 2:1-10. (5) He elucidates how a holy and godly life is made possible, 2:11-15. (6) He enjoins good citizenship, 3:1-2. (7) He reviews the reasons for godly living, 3:3-8. (8) He issues a warning against false teaching, 3:9-11. (9) He outlines his future plans, 3:12-14. (10) He dispatches greetings, 3:15.

M.F.U.

BIBLIOGRAPHY: D. E. Hiebert, Titus and Philemon (1957). See also Timothy, First Epistle, for commentaries on three "Pastoral Epistles."

(from The New Unger's Bible Dictionary. Originally published by Moody Press of Chicago, Illinois. Copyright (c) 1988.)

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