ESV Global Study Bible :: Footnotes for Titus 2

Titus 2:1–3:8 Christian Living in Contrast to the False Teachers. Paul describes proper Christian living rooted in the gospel. This is in direct contrast to the behavior of the false teachers (1:10–16), but it does match what is required of true church leaders (1:5–9). This is the primary concern of the letter: right doctrine leads to right behavior.

Titus 2:1–10 Some argue that the behavior commanded here is specific to the first century context because its purpose is to avoid offense (see note on vv. 5). However, v. 1 bases this behavior on “sound doctrine” itself, not on cultural ideas.

Titus 2:1 But as for you. Titus must be different than the false teachers. He must teach the people to live in a way that accords with sound doctrine.

Titus 2:3–5 The instruction to older women and young women is connected because part of the role of a Christian older woman is to train the younger women. The Greek word for “train” means “give instruction in wise behavior and good judgment.” The topics to be taught in vv. 4–5 are very practical and focus on domestic matters. Working at home does not prohibit working outside the home (see Prov. 31:16, 18, 24). It does indicate that Paul expects wives to have the primary responsibility for the day-to-day care of their homes and children.

Titus 2:5, 8, 10 These verses encourage a “gospel lifestyle” that gives unbelievers no reason to reject the gospel. This lifestyle also highlights the gospel’s attractiveness (“adorn,” v. 10). On God as Savior (v. 10), see note on 2 Tim. 1:8–10. See also chart.

Titus 2:11–14 One cannot truly claim to have received saving grace without also accepting “training grace.” This change in lifestyle is rooted in the atonement (v. 14) and the expectation of Christ’s return (v. 13).

Titus 2:11 Bringing salvation for all people means that salvation has been offered to all people (including all ethnic groups), not just to some. It does not mean that all people will be saved (see note on 1 Tim. 2:4).

Titus 2:12 Saving grace teaches its recipients to say no to sin and yes to godliness. In the present age stresses that this godliness is to be lived out now. It also sets up the reference to the future return of Christ in v. 13.

Titus 2:13 The Greek for waiting implies eagerness. Eagerly expecting Christ’s return is how grace trains Christians to reject sin and live a godly life (see vv. 11–12). Our blessed hope means Christ’s second coming, which Paul calls the appearing of . . . our great God and Savior Jesus Christ. Paul does not refer here to two persons (God the Father and Jesus Christ). Rather, Jesus is identified as “our great God and Savior” (compare John 1:1; 20:28; etc.).

Titus 2:14 to redeem us from all lawlessness. This phrase in Greek closely resembles the Greek translation of Ps. 130:8. One purpose of Jesus’ death was to make his people holy. A people for his own possession translates an unusual phrase with intentional echoes from the OT (see especially Ex. 19:5; Mal. 3:17). It has the sense of “prized, treasured possession.” These people are to be zealous for good works, so again redemption is tied specifically to living in a godly manner.

Titus 2:15 After describing the gospel, Paul returns to giving Titus instructions (as in vv. 1–10).