Titus 3 – Expository Preaching and Study Guide

Overview

Titus 3 concludes Paul’s letter to his trusted coworker, Titus, with a strong emphasis on practical Christian living grounded in sound doctrine. Paul exhorts believers to live peaceably under governing authorities, practice good works, and avoid foolish controversies. He reminds them of their past sinfulness, God’s mercy through regeneration, and the transforming power of grace. The theological climax is found in verses 4–7, which outline the doctrine of salvation by grace through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit.

Key events and themes include:

Submission to rulers and authorities (v.1)
A call to peaceable, humble conduct (v.2)
A contrast between believers’ former sinful lives and their new birth through the Holy Spirit (vv.3–7)
A reaffirmation of the necessity of good works as a fruit of salvation, not a means to it (v.8)
Instructions for avoiding divisive persons and unprofitable debates (vv.9–11)
Closing remarks about ministry companions and maintaining fruitful ministry (vv.12–15)

Theological significance:
Titus 3 reaffirms salvation by grace alone, the regenerating work of the Holy Spirit, and the call to a life of obedience and fruitfulness. It underscores the authority of Scripture as the foundation for conduct and sound doctrine, highlighting the inseparable link between theology and behavior in the Christian life.

Historical and Literary Context

Historical Context:
Titus was serving on the island of Crete, a place known for moral laxity and social disorder (cf. Titus 1:12). Paul wrote this letter to guide Titus in organizing the churches, appointing qualified elders, refuting false teachers, and teaching sound doctrine. The letter reflects the early church’s missionary expansion into pagan Gentile cultures and the urgent need to establish mature, orderly, and doctrinally sound congregations.

Crete, under Roman rule, would have posed specific challenges related to civil obedience and public witness. Paul’s instruction in Titus 3:1 about submission to rulers reflects the need for Christians to be exemplary citizens, even in a pagan society, to avoid bringing reproach on the gospel.

Literary Context:
Titus is one of the Pastoral Epistles (along with 1 and 2 Timothy), characterized by personal instruction and ecclesial concern. Chapter 3 concludes the epistle with practical applications flowing from the doctrinal foundation laid in chapters 1 and 2. Paul uses contrasts (e.g., former sinful life vs. new life in Christ), creedal summaries (vv.4–7), and moral exhortations to drive home his pastoral points.

Key Themes and Doctrinal Points

1. Salvation by Grace, Not Works (vv.4–7)

Paul makes it clear that our salvation is not based on righteous deeds but on God’s mercy, through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit. This is one of the clearest New Testament affirmations of justification by grace.

Justification is a legal declaration by God, not based on human merit.
Regeneration is the inward work of the Holy Spirit, producing a new heart and life.
The Trinitarian nature of salvation is seen: God the Father saves us, Christ made salvation possible, and the Holy Spirit applies it through renewal.

2. The Work of the Holy Spirit

The Spirit is not a passive agent but the active force in renewing the believer (v.5). This is essential to the Christian life and is a powerful rebuttal to any view that denies the Spirit’s ongoing sanctifying role.

“Washing of rebirth” likely refers to the spiritual cleansing that comes with conversion.
“Renewal by the Holy Spirit” reflects the ongoing transformation of the believer.

3. The Role of Good Works (v.8)

While salvation is by grace, Paul insists that believers must devote themselves to good works. These are not meritorious but are the natural outflow of a regenerated life.

Good works are evidence, not cause, of salvation.
They are profitable and contribute to the church’s witness and edification.

4. Civic Responsibility and Christian Testimony (vv.1–2)

Paul exhorts believers to be subject to rulers, showing humility, courtesy, and peace. This submission reflects God’s sovereignty over earthly authorities (cf. Romans 13:1-7).

Christians must not be known for rebellion or contentiousness.
Humility and gentleness serve the gospel’s public credibility.

5. Avoiding Division and Controversy (vv.9–11)

Paul warns against foolish controversies, genealogies, and quarrels about the law. These are distractions from the gospel and create division in the church.

Divisive persons are to be warned twice, then rejected.
The church must guard its doctrinal purity and relational unity.

6. Final Instructions and Fellowship (vv.12–15)

Paul’s concluding remarks remind readers that ministry is relational and communal. Names like Artemas, Tychicus, and Apollos show the collaborative nature of church work.

Support for ministry workers is vital (v.13).
Fruitfulness in ministry is expected of all (v.14).

Verse-by-Verse Analysis

Titus 3:1 – “Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good.”

Explanation: Paul commands believers to be law-abiding and ready to serve others through good works. This reflects a consistent New Testament ethic (cf. Romans 13:1-7; 1 Peter 2:13-17).
Doctrinal Insight: Obedience to government is rooted in God’s sovereign appointment of civil authority.
Application: Christians must not be known for rebellion, but for their obedience, integrity, and public witness, even under imperfect rulers.

Titus 3:2 – “To slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and always to be gentle toward everyone.”

Explanation: Christian conduct must be marked by speech that blesses, not curses, and an attitude of humility and gentleness (cf. Philippians 4:5).
Doctrinal Insight: Reflects the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23).
Application: Our public testimony matters. Kindness and respect demonstrate the transformation Christ brings.

Titus 3:3 – “At one time we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived…”

Explanation: Paul reminds believers of their former lives apart from Christ—marked by sin, deception, and enslavement.
Doctrinal Insight: Total depravity—the reality that all people are naturally enslaved to sin (Ephesians 2:1-3).
Application: This verse cultivates humility and compassion toward the lost.

Titus 3:4-5 – “But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us…”

Explanation: A clear transition from man’s sinfulness to God’s intervention. God saves out of mercy, not because of works.
Cross-References: Ephesians 2:4-9; 2 Timothy 1:9.
Doctrinal Insight: Emphasizes justification by grace and the monergistic nature of salvation—God alone initiates and completes it.
Application: Encourages trust in God’s mercy and undermines self-righteousness.

Titus 3:5b – “…through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit.”

Explanation: Salvation includes regeneration (new birth), accomplished by the Spirit.
Cross-References: John 3:5-8; Ezekiel 36:25-27.
Doctrinal Insight: This is a definitive statement on the work of the Holy Spirit in conversion and sanctification.
Application: We must not only trust in Christ but depend daily on the Spirit’s renewing power.

Titus 3:6 – “…whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior.”

Explanation: The Holy Spirit is given generously to believers through Jesus.
Cross-References: Acts 2:33; John 14:16-17.
Doctrinal Insight: Reinforces Trinitarian theology—the Spirit is given by the Father through the Son.
Application: Believers live empowered lives because the Spirit dwells within.

Titus 3:7 – “So that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life.”

Explanation: Justification by grace leads to adoption and inheritance.
Cross-References: Romans 8:16-17; Galatians 4:7.
Doctrinal Insight: This verse affirms adoption, justification, and glorification—key elements of the order of salvation.
Application: Gives believers confidence and hope in their future with God.

Titus 3:8 – “…those who have trusted in God should be careful to devote themselves to doing what is good.”

Explanation: Faith leads to fruitfulness. Good works are a necessary evidence of saving faith.
Doctrinal Insight: Sanctification flows from justification.
Application: Encourages self-examination: are we known for godly works?

Titus 3:9 – “But avoid foolish controversies and genealogies…”

Explanation: Paul warns against time-wasting, divisive debates.
Cross-References: 1 Timothy 1:4; 2 Timothy 2:23.
Doctrinal Insight: Truth matters, but unity and edification in the body also matter.
Application: Focus ministry energy on gospel truth, not speculation or prideful argument.

Titus 3:10-11 – “Warn a divisive person once, and then warn them a second time…”

Explanation: Church discipline is to be exercised for persistent division.
Cross-References: Matthew 18:15-17; Romans 16:17.
Doctrinal Insight: The purity and unity of the church must be protected.
Application: Church leaders must lovingly confront sin and guard the flock.

Titus 3:12-15 – Final Greetings

Explanation: Paul names ministry co-laborers and calls for hospitality and mutual support.
Application: Ministry is relational. No pastor or leader labors alone.

Theological Implications and Connection to Jesus Christ

Titus 3 is Christ-centered in both content and purpose. Jesus is explicitly named in verse 6 as “our Savior,” the One through whom the Holy Spirit is poured out. It is His appearing (v.4) that brought salvation, reflecting His incarnation. He is the channel of regeneration, and it is through Him that we are justified by grace (v.7). Titus 3 emphasizes:

Christ as the Savior: His life, death, and resurrection secured our salvation.
Christ as the Mediator of the Spirit: The Spirit’s work in the believer is the result of Jesus’ completed work (cf. John 14:26; Acts 2:33).
Christ as the Source of Hope: Through justification, we become heirs—a direct result of our union with Christ (cf. Romans 8:17).
Christ in our Conduct: Good works are not merely moral duties but responses to Christ’s grace.

Redemptive Story Connection:

Titus 3 fits within the gospel arc of Scripture: creation (v.1–2), fall (v.3), redemption (vv.4–7), and new life (vv.8–15).
The chapter highlights the transforming grace of the gospel and the new creation reality (2 Corinthians 5:17) available in Christ.

Connection to God the Father

Titus 3 reveals God the Father as the initiator of salvation:

Verse 4 speaks of “the kindness and love of God our Savior”—a direct reference to the Father.
He is the one who saves (v.5), the justifier (v.7), and the provider of the Spirit through Jesus Christ (v.6).
He adopts believers as heirs, promising eternal life as part of His covenantal love.

This echoes John 3:16—“For God so loved the world…” and Ephesians 1:4-5, where the Father predestines believers to adoption. His kindness, mercy, and sovereign grace are on display.

Connection to the Holy Spirit

Titus 3 contains one of the most explicit references to the work of the Holy Spirit in salvation and sanctification in the New Testament:

1. The Spirit as the Agent of Regeneration (Titus 3:5)

“He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit.”
This underscores the Spirit’s work in giving new life (cf. John 3:5-8, “You must be born again”) and transforming the believer from the inside out (cf. Ezekiel 36:26-27).
The “washing” refers to inner spiritual cleansing, not external ritual, and emphasizes purity and newness of life.

2. The Spirit Poured Out (Titus 3:6)

“Whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior.”
The outpouring reflects Acts 2:33, the fulfillment of Joel’s prophecy, and Christ’s promise to send the Spirit.
The Spirit’s presence is not meager or partial but “generous,” reflecting God’s abundance in grace.

3. The Spirit in the Christian Life

The Holy Spirit not only initiates new birth but renews continually (cf. Romans 12:2; 2 Corinthians 4:16).
He empowers believers to live out good works (v.8), resist division (v.9), and pursue godly character (vv.1–2).

Summary:
Titus 3 affirms the Spirit’s central role in salvation, renewal, sanctification, and service. Without the Holy Spirit, there is no new birth, no spiritual growth, and no fruitfulness.

Sermon Outline and Flow

Sermon Title: “Saved by Grace, Transformed by the Spirit”

Text: Titus 3:1-15
Theme: God’s mercy saves us through the regenerating work of the Holy Spirit, calling us to good works and godly living.

I. Remember Who You Were (Titus 3:1-3)

Main Point: Believers must remember their past life of sin to cultivate humility and compassion.
Transition: But God did not leave us in that condition.

Illustration: Share a personal story or testimony of what life was like before knowing Christ—confusion, pride, selfishness, or addiction.
Application: Let your past brokenness humble you and increase your patience with unbelievers today.

II. Rejoice in What God Has Done (Titus 3:4-7)

Main Point: God saved us not because of anything we did but because of His mercy, through the Spirit.
Subpoints:
- The kindness of God appeared (v.4)
- He saved us by His mercy (v.5)
- The Spirit regenerated and renewed us (v.5b)
- He justified and made us heirs (v.7)

Transition: This gift of grace has present and future implications.

Example: Imagine a prisoner pardoned not for good behavior but because the judge himself paid the price.
Application: Rest in God’s grace. Stop striving for acceptance and live in freedom as a child of God.

III. Reflect His Grace through Good Works (Titus 3:8-11)

Main Point: Grace should lead to godliness. Avoid divisiveness and focus on fruitful living.
Subpoints:
- Devote yourself to doing good (v.8)
- Avoid foolish arguments (v.9)
- Deal biblically with divisive people (vv.10–11)

Illustration: A garden needs care to bear fruit. Neglect it, and weeds (controversies and quarrels) take over.
Application: Ask yourself: “Is my life building up others or stirring up strife?”

IV. Remain Faithful in Fellowship and Ministry (Titus 3:12-15)

Main Point: Ministry is a team effort. Support others and meet pressing needs.
Transition to conclusion: The gospel shapes every relationship and action in the church.

Example: Mention a faithful Christian who works behind the scenes in church hospitality, tech, or missions.
Application: Encourage your church to support each other practically and spiritually.

Conclusion and Call to Action

Call to Remember: We were once lost but have been saved by grace.
Call to Rejoice: Celebrate the Spirit’s renewing work in your life.
Call to Reflect: Let your life demonstrate the gospel through godly actions and speech.

Closing Illustration:
Imagine a stained shirt that no amount of scrubbing could clean. But God, through Christ and by the Spirit, has given you new clothing—pure, spotless, and fitting for royalty. So now, wear it well. Represent Christ in a broken world.

Call to Action:

“Are you living in light of your rebirth? Are you walking in the Spirit’s renewal? Are you shining the kindness of God to a lost world?”

Encourage a time of reflection or small group prayer, asking:

“Lord, where am I resisting Your renewing Spirit?”
“Who in my life needs to see Your grace through me?”

Application for Today’s Christian

Titus 3 offers clear, Spirit-empowered instruction on how Christians are to live in a fallen world while bearing witness to the grace that saved them. Here are key applications for daily life:

1. Discipleship: Living as Transformed People

Remember your past (v.3) to stay humble and gracious toward others still trapped in sin.
Live out your faith by doing good works as an act of worship and obedience (v.8).
Disciple others by teaching that salvation is by grace alone, not works, but that works are the fruit of a transformed life (cf. James 2:17).
Practice sound doctrine by avoiding theological quarrels and instead promoting edifying, Christ-honoring truth (v.9).

Practical Tip: Mentor a younger believer and go through Titus together, modeling grace, truth, and good works in relationship.

2. Stewardship: Serving with Grace and Excellence

Be ready to serve (v.1) wherever God has placed you—work, church, family, or community.
Support ministry partners (vv.12–15) by giving, encouraging, and providing hospitality.
Be faithful with time and speech—avoid slander, gossip, and foolish debates; instead, invest in building others up.

Practical Tip: Evaluate your stewardship weekly: your time, words, money, and talents. Are they aligned with God’s call to do “what is good”?

3. Witness and Holiness: Living Godly in a Corrupt World

Submit to authorities as a testimony of God’s order and your trust in His sovereignty (v.1).
Be gentle and respectful toward all people (v.2), reflecting the kindness of God.
Stand firm against division and doctrinal compromise while remaining compassionate (vv.9–11).

Practical Tip: Ask, “Does my attitude on social media and in conversations reflect Titus 3:2?” Then make changes if needed.

Connection to God’s Love

Titus 3 reveals the deep, personal, and redemptive love of God in multiple ways:

1. God’s Love Appeared in Christ (v.4)

Paul uses the phrase, “But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared…”
This points to the incarnation of Christ as the visible expression of God’s mercy and grace.
God did not wait for humanity to become worthy—His love moved first (Romans 5:8).

2. God Saves Out of Mercy (v.5)

Salvation is not based on merit but flows from God’s loving nature.
Mercy is love in action toward the undeserving.

3. God Provides the Spirit (v.6)

The Holy Spirit is poured out generously—God does not withhold what is best.
His love is not stingy but abundant, aiming to restore and renew what sin destroyed.

4. God Makes Us Heirs (v.7)

We are not only forgiven but adopted and made heirs of eternal life.
This reflects covenantal love—unearned, unbreakable, and overflowing with future hope.

Titus 3, then, is a portrait of divine love that redeems, regenerates, adopts, and transforms sinners into saints, all by grace.

Broader Biblical Themes

Titus 3 fits powerfully within the grand narrative of Scripture—from creation to new creation.

1. Creation and the Image of God

Humanity was created good but became foolish and enslaved (v.3). The chapter recognizes that people are still image-bearers but marred by sin.
The renewal by the Holy Spirit (v.5) is part of God’s restorative work, renewing His image in us (Colossians 3:10).

2. Redemption through Grace

This chapter captures the essence of the redemption story:
- Fallen man (v.3)
- Divine intervention (v.4)
- Regeneration (v.5)
- Justification and hope (v.7)
It affirms the substitutionary and sovereign grace of God, linking to the gospel themes in Romans and Ephesians.

3. Covenant and Heirship

Paul calls believers “heirs” (v.7), tying back to the Abrahamic promise that God would bless His people and give them an eternal inheritance (Galatians 3:29).
This connects to the broader theme of covenantal faithfulness—God keeps His promises through Christ.

4. The People of God and Mission

The church, as God’s people, is called to be different—obedient, peaceable, fruitful (vv.1–2, 8).
This echoes Israel’s call to be a light to the nations and is fulfilled through the church’s Spirit-filled witness (Matthew 5:14-16).

Reflection Questions for Personal Study or Small Group Discussion

These questions are intended to help believers engage more deeply with the truths of Titus 3, apply them personally, and discuss them meaningfully in community.

Section 1: Remembering Our Past and God’s Mercy (Titus 3:1-7)

How does remembering your life before Christ (v.3) help you stay humble and patient toward others today?
In what ways have you experienced the kindness and mercy of God personally (v.4–5)?
What does “washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit” mean to you? How do you see that renewal at work in your life today?
Why is it important to remember that our salvation is not because of righteous things we’ve done, but because of God’s mercy?

Section 2: Living as God’s People in the World (Titus 3:1-2, 8)

Are there any attitudes or behaviors in your life right now that are not gentle, peaceable, or respectful toward others? How can you change that this week?
What does it mean to be “ready to do whatever is good”? How can you grow in this area in your workplace, family, or church?
How does knowing you are an “heir having the hope of eternal life” (v.7) shape the way you live today?

Section 3: Guarding Unity and Avoiding Division (Titus 3:9-11)

What kinds of conversations or arguments does Paul warn us to avoid? Are there any that you need to step away from?
Why is unity in the church so important? How should we respond when someone causes division?
Have you ever had to confront or be confronted in love for the sake of church unity? What did you learn from that experience?

Section 4: Faithfulness in Ministry and Community (Titus 3:12-15)

What can we learn about Christian partnership and support from Paul’s closing remarks?
How can you meet the “pressing needs” of others in your church or small group so that your faith is fruitful (v.14)?
Who are you intentionally encouraging or partnering with in ministry today?

Personal and Group Challenge

Which verse or truth from Titus 3 stood out to you the most, and why?
What is one concrete action you can take this week to reflect the grace of God in your daily life?
Spend time praying and asking the Holy Spirit to continue His renewing work in your heart. What areas of your life still need His transformation?