Qualifications for Elders: Titus 1

Read Titus Chapter 1

Introduction: Titus 1 presents the essential guidelines for church leadership and Christian living. Paul addresses Titus, his true son in their shared faith, providing instructions for appointing elders in the church and confronting false teachers. Through this guidance, Titus is to ensure that the church in Crete grows in faith and good works. The chapter emphasizes the importance of sound doctrine, godly living, and the defense of the truth against falsehood.

I. Salutation and Purpose of Writing (Titus 1:1-4)
Paul, as a servant and apostle of Jesus Christ, begins his letter to Titus by affirming his mission to promote faith and knowledge of the truth that leads to godliness. He reminds Titus of the hope of eternal life, which God, who does not lie, promised before time began. Paul acknowledges Titus as his true son in their common faith and bestows grace and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Savior. Cross-reference verses: 1 Timothy 1:2 – Paul refers to Timothy as his true son in faith, Ephesians 2:8-9 – salvation by grace through faith, and Hebrews 6:18 – God cannot lie.

II. Qualifications for Elders (Titus 1:5-9)
Paul instructs Titus to appoint elders in every town, as previously directed. An elder must be blameless, faithful to their spouse, with faithful children not accused of wild living or rebellion. An overseer must be hospitable, loving good, self-controlled, upright, holy, and disciplined. They must hold firmly to the trustworthy message, be able to encourage others with sound doctrine, and refute those who oppose it. Cross-reference verses: 1 Timothy 3:1-7 – qualifications for overseers, 2 Timothy 2:24-25 – servant of the Lord must be gentle and able to teach, and 1 Peter 5:2-3 – elders should shepherd the flock willingly and eagerly.

III. Rebuke of False Teachers (Titus 1:10-16)
There are many rebellious people, full of meaningless talk and deception, especially those of the circumcision group. They must be silenced because they are upsetting whole families by teaching for dishonest gain. Cretans are described as liars, evil brutes, and lazy gluttons; this testimony is true. Titus must rebuke them sharply, so they will be sound in the faith, not paying attention to Jewish myths or human commands. To the pure, all things are pure, but to those who are corrupt and do not believe, nothing is pure. They claim to know God, but by their actions, they deny Him; they are detestable, disobedient, and unfit for doing anything good. Cross-reference verses: Matthew 7:15-20 – false prophets recognized by their fruit, 1 Timothy 6:3-5 – false doctrine and love of money , and 2 Timothy 4:3-4 – time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine.

Conclusion: Titus 1 sets forth the qualifications needed for church leaders and cautions against false teachings that can corrupt the faith of believers. Paul emphasizes the importance of living out one’s faith through actions, being grounded in sound doctrine, and leading by example. The chapter challenges believers to maintain purity in their belief and conduct, ensuring that the message of the Gospel is preserved and propagated correctly within the church community. As we reflect on these instructions, we are inspired to pursue truth, uphold godly standards, and be vigilant in our spiritual journey, making the hope of eternal life a reality in our lives.