Titus 1:9

"but given to hospitality, a lover of good, sober minded, fair, holy, self-controlled,"

Key Reflection

In Titus 1:9, Paul describes characteristics that are essential for leaders in the early Christian community, such as Titus himself. He emphasizes hospitality, a love for what is good, and a sober-minded disposition, indicating the importance of being grounded and ethical. The verse also highlights fairness, holiness, and self-control, reflecting virtues that were highly valued in Greco-Roman culture but taken to an even higher Christian standard, emphasizing both moral integrity and practical kindness.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Verse 9. Holding fast the faithful word. That is, the true doctrines of the gospel. This means, that he is to hold this fast, in opposition to one who would wrest it away, and in opposition to all false teachers, and to all systems of false philosophy. He must be a man who is firm in his belief of the doctrines of the Christian faith, and a man who can be relied on to maintain and defend those doctrines in all circumstances. Comp. See Barnes "2 Th 2:15". As he hath been taught. Marg., in teaching. Gr., "according to the teaching." The sense is, according to that doctrine as taught by the inspired teachers of religion.

Related Verses

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