Reference ID Tags SupportReference Quote Occurrence Note
front:intro m2jl 0 # Introduction to Titus\n\n## Part 1: General Introduction\n\n### Outline of the book of Titus\n\n1. Paul instructs Titus to appoint godly leaders. (1:1–16)\n2. Paul instructs Titus to train people to live godly lives. (2:1–3:11)\n3. Paul ends by sharing some of his plans and sending greetings to various believers. (3:12–15)\n\n### Who wrote the book of Titus?\n\nPaul wrote the book of Titus. Paul was from the city of Tarsus. He had been known as Saul in his early life. Before becoming a Christian, Paul was a Pharisee. He persecuted Christians. After he became a Christian, he traveled several times throughout the Roman Empire telling people about Jesus.\n\n### What is the book of Titus about?\n\nPaul wrote this letter to Titus, his fellow worker, who was leading the churches on the island of Crete. Paul instructed him about selecting church leaders. Paul also described how the believers should behave towards each other. He also encouraged them all to live in a way that pleases God.\n\n### How should the title of this book be translated?\n\nTranslators may choose to call this book by its traditional title, “Titus.” Or they may choose a clearer title, such as “Paul’s Letter to Titus” or “A Letter to Titus.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])\n\n## Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts\n\n### In what roles can people serve within the church?\n\nThere are some teachings in the book of Titus about whether a woman or divorced man can serve in positions of leadership within the church. Scholars disagree about the meaning of these teachings. Further study on these issues may be necessary before translating this book.\n\n## Part 3: Important Translation Issues\n\n### Singular and plural **you**\n\nIn this book, the word **I** refers to Paul. Also, the word **you** is almost always singular and refers to Titus. The exception to this is 3:15. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])\n\n### What is the meaning of **God our Savior**?\n\nThis is a common phrase in this letter. Paul meant to make the readers think about how God forgave them in Christ for sinning against him, and by forgiving them he saved them from being punished when he judges all people. A similar phrase in this letter is **our great God and Savior Jesus Christ**.
1:intro c7me 0 # Titus 1 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nPaul formally introduces this letter in verses 1–4. Writers often began letters in this way in the ancient Near East.\n\nIn verses 6–9, Paul lists several qualities that a man must have if he is to be an elder in the church. (See: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns) Paul gives a similar list in 1 Timothy 3.\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Elders\n\nThe church has used different titles for church leaders. Some titles include overseer, elder, pastor, and bishop.\n\n## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter\n\n### Should, may, must\n\nThe ULT uses different words that indicate requirements or obligations. These verbs have different levels of force associated with them. The subtle differences may be difficult to translate. The UST translates these verbs in a more general way.
1:1 rtc9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns κατὰ πίστιν 1 The word **faith** is an abstract noun. Here it refers to believing or trusting in Jesus. If it is more clear in your language, you could translate it with a verb such as these, as in the UST. Alternate translation: “to strengthen the faith” or “to help [God’s chosen people] to trust him more” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1:1 xyz8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns ἐπίγνωσιν 1 If it would be helpful in your language, you can translate the abstract noun **knowledge** with a verb such as “to know,” as in the UST. Paul wants people to know the true message about God and Christ so that they can live in a way that pleases God. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1:1 abc8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns ἀληθείας 1 If it would be helpful in your language, you can translate the abstract noun **truth** with an adjective phrase such as “what is true” or “the true message.” Paul wants people to know the true message about God and Christ so that they can live in a way that pleases God. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1:1 fyf8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns τῆς κατ’ εὐσέβειαν 1 Here, **godliness** is an abstract noun that refers to living in a way that pleases God. Alternate translation: “that is suitable for honoring God” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1:2 xyz9 ἐπ’ ἐλπίδι ζωῆς αἰωνίου 1 Alternate translation: “that gives us the certain hope of everlasting life” or “based on our certain hope for everlasting life”
1:3 swi9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ἐφανέρωσεν & τὸν λόγον αὐτοῦ 1 Paul speaks of God’s word as if it were an object that could be visibly shown to people. Alternate translation: “he caused me to understand his message” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1:3 abc9 ἐν κηρύγματι 1 Alternate translation: “through the proclamation of the message”
1:3 m41u rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive ὃ ἐπιστεύθην ἐγὼ 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “he entrusted to me” or “he gave me the responsibility to preach” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1:3 xy18 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive ἡμῶν 1 Here, **our** includes Paul, Titus, and all Christians. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1:4 gu55 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor γνησίῳ τέκνῳ 1 Though Titus was not Paul’s biological **son**, they share a common faith in Christ. Paul considers relationship to Christ through faith to be more important than biological relationship. Thus, because of their relative ages and shared faith in Christ, Paul considers Titus as his own son. It may also be that Paul led Titus to faith in Christ, and so Titus is like a son in this spiritual sense. Alternate translation: “you are like a son to me” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1:4 wx6c κοινὴν πίστιν 1 Paul and Titus both share the same **faith** in Christ. Alternate translation: “our belief in Christ”
1:4 h93t rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis χάρις καὶ εἰρήνη 1 This was a common greeting Paul used. You can state clearly the understood information. Alternate translation: “May you experience kindness and inner peace” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1:4 s3yr Χριστοῦ Ἰησοῦ τοῦ Σωτῆρος ἡμῶν 1 Alternate translation: “Christ Jesus who is our Savior”
1:4 xy17 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive ἡμῶν 1 Here, **our** includes Paul, Titus, and all Christians. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1:5 ew8h rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal τούτου χάριν 1 The connecting phrase **For this purpose** introduces the goal that Paul wanted to accomplish when he left Titus in Crete (to ordain elders in the church). Alternate translation: “This is the reason” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
1:5 lh9b ἀπέλιπόν σε ἐν Κρήτῃ 1 Alternate translation: “I told you to stay in Crete”
1:5 ga62 ἵνα τὰ λείποντα ἐπιδιορθώσῃ 1 Alternate translation: “so that you would finish arranging things that needed to be done”
1:5 p56w πρεσβυτέρους 1 In the early Christian churches, Christian **elders** gave spiritual leadership to the assemblies of believers. This word refers to people who are mature in faith.
1:6 wja4 Connecting Statement: 0 # Connecting Statement:\n\nHaving told Titus to ordain elders in every city on the island of Crete, Paul then gives the requirements for elders.
1:6 jen8 εἴ τίς ἐστιν ἀνέγκλητος 1 This is the beginning of the description of the character of an elder. Titus is to choose men who fit the following description. To be **blameless** is to be known as a person who does not do bad things. Alternate translation: “an elder must be without blame” or “an elder must not have a bad reputation”
1:6 ab70 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives ἀνέγκλητος 1 To be **blameless** is to be known as a person who does not do bad things. Alternate translation: “without blame” You can state this positively: “a person who has a good reputation” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
1:6 q6uy rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit μιᾶς γυναικὸς ἀνήρ 1 This means that he has only **one wife**; that is, he does not have any other wives or concubines. This also means that he does not commit adultery and may also mean that he has not divorced a previous wife. Alternate translation: “a man who has only one woman” or “a man who is faithful to his wife” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1:6 wd6q τέκνα & πιστά 1 This could refer to: (1) children who believe in Jesus. (2) children who are trustworthy.
1:7 lz7x τὸν ἐπίσκοπον 1 The word **overseer** is another name for the same position of spiritual leadership that Paul referred to as **elder** in 1:5. This term focuses on the function of the elder: he oversees the activities and people of the church.
1:7 g2zf rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor Θεοῦ οἰκονόμον 1 Paul speaks of the church as if it were God’s **household**, and the overseer as if he were a servant in charge of managing that household. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1:7 d6l1 μὴ πάροινον 1 Alternate translation: “not an alcoholic” or “not one who drinks much wine”
1:7 j1qq μὴ πλήκτην 1 Alternate translation: “not one who is violent” or “not one who likes to fight”
1:8 i549 rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast ἀλλὰ 1 The connecting word **Instead** introduces a contrast between the things an elder is not to be (that Paul already stated), and the things an elder is to be (which Paul is about to state). (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
1:8 vkq1 φιλάγαθον 1 Alternate translation: “a person who loves to do good”
1:8 xy11 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet σώφρονα & ἐγκρατῆ 1 The terms **sensible** and **self-controlled** are very similar in meaning and may be translated by one term if the target language does not have two similar terms. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
1:8 xy12 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet δίκαιον, ὅσιον 1 The terms **righteous** and **holy** are very similar in meaning and may be translated by one term if the target language does not have two similar terms. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
1:9 xwy6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ἀντεχόμενον 1 Paul speaks of devotion to the Christian faith as if it were grasping the faith with one’s hands. Alternate translation: “He must be devoted to” or “He should know well” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1:9 xy10 κατὰ τὴν διδαχὴν 1 Alternate translation: “that agrees with the things that we taught him”
1:9 abcj rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal ἵνα 1 The connecting words **so that** introduce a goal or purpose relationship. The purpose for the elder to hold tightly to the trustworthy message is for him to be able to encourage others and rebuke those who oppose him. Use a connector in your language that makes it clear that this is the purpose. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
1:9 pzi1 τῇ διδασκαλίᾳ τῇ ὑγιαινούσῃ 1 The Greek word rendered at **sound** normally refers to physical health. Paul speaks of this teaching as if it would cause those who believe it to be spiritually healthy, rather than spiritually sick.
1:10 xsq9 Connecting Statement: 0 # Connecting Statement:\n\nBecause of those that would oppose God’s word, Paul gives Titus reasons to preach God’s word and warns him about false teachers.
1:10 w9kk rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ἀνυπότακτοι, ματαιολόγοι 1 These are **rebellious** people who do not obey the gospel message. Here, **empty** is a metaphor for useless, and **empty talkers** are people who say useless or foolish things. Alternate translation: “who refuse to obey and who say useless things” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1:10 ga6n φρεναπάται 1 The word **deceivers** describes people who are actively trying to convince people to believe in something other than the true gospel that Paul preaches. Alternate translation: “people who persuade others to believe things that are not true”
1:10 abcd rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys ματαιολόγοι, καὶ φρεναπάται 1 Both **empty talkers** and **deceivers** refer to the same people. They taught false, worthless things and wanted people to believe them. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys]])
1:10 pu74 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy οἱ ἐκ τῆς περιτομῆς 1 This refers to the Jewish Christians who taught that men must be circumcised in order to follow Christ. This teaching is false. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1:11 f4iy οὓς δεῖ ἐπιστομίζειν 1 Alternate translation: “You must prevent them from spreading their teachings” or “Someone must stop them from influencing others by their words”
1:11 aqi5 ὅλους οἴκους ἀνατρέπουσιν 1 The issue was that they were leading families away from the truth and destroying their faith. Alternate translation: “are ruining entire families”
1:11 tw4e διδάσκοντες ἃ μὴ δεῖ 1 These are things that are not proper to teach regarding Christ and the law because they are not true.
1:11 at7c αἰσχροῦ κέρδους χάριν 1 This refers to **profit** that people make by doing things that are not honorable.
1:12 tr1j τις ἐξ αὐτῶν, ἴδιος αὐτῶν προφήτης 1 Alternate translation: “A Cretan that they themselves consider to be a prophet”
1:12 y3zb rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole Κρῆτες ἀεὶ ψεῦσται 1 This is an exaggeration that means that **Cretans** had a reputation to be **liars**. Alternate translation: “Cretans lie all the time” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
1:12 h3jb rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor κακὰ θηρία 1 This metaphor compares the Cretans to dangerous wild animals. Alternate translation: “as dangerous as wild animals” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1:12 xyz1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche γαστέρες ἀργαί 1 The part of the body that stores food is used to represent the person who eats all the time. Alternate translation: “lazy gluttons” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1:13 fif8 δι’ ἣν αἰτίαν ἔλεγχε αὐτοὺς ἀποτόμως 1 Alternate translation: “For that reason, you must use strong language that the Cretans will understand when you correct them”
1:13 abck rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result δι’ ἣν αἰτίαν 1 The connecting words **For this reason** introduce a reason-result relationship. The reason is that what the Cretan prophet said about his people is true (they are liars, evil, and lazy), and the result is that Titus should rebuke them severely. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1:13 je3r ἵνα ὑγιαίνωσιν ἐν τῇ πίστει 1 See note on **sound** in [Titus 1:9](../01/09/pzi1). Alternate translation: “so they will have a healthy faith” or “so their faith may be true” or “so that they believe only what is true about God”
1:13 abcl rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal ἵνα 1 The connecting words **so that** introduce an action-purpose relationship. The action is the elder rebukes the Cretans severely, and the purpose is the Cretans become sound in the faith. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
1:13 xyz2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns ἐν τῇ πίστει 1 Here the abstract noun **faith** represents the things that the people believe about God. Alternate translation: “in what they believe about God” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1:14 abcm rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast μὴ 1 The connecting word **not** introduces a contrast to being “sound in the faith” in the previous verse. In order to be sound in the faith, the people must not pay any attention to the Jewish myths or the commands of people who do not follow the truth. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
1:14 p28i Ἰουδαϊκοῖς μύθοις 1 This refers to the false teaching of the Jews.
1:14 m4a5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ἀποστρεφομένων τὴν ἀλήθειαν 1 Paul speaks of the truth as if it were an object that one could turn away from or avoid. Alternate translation: “who reject the truth” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1:15 qtb9 πάντα καθαρὰ τοῖς καθαροῖς 1 Alternate translation: “If people are pure on the inside, everything that they do will be pure” or “When people have only good thoughts, nothing that they do will offend God”
1:15 nx42 τοῖς καθαροῖς 1 Alternate translation: “to those who are acceptable to God”
1:15 abcn rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast δὲ 1 The connecting word **But** introduces a contrast between people who are pure and people who are corrupt and unbelieving. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
1:15 n3wk rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor τοῖς & μεμιαμμένοις καὶ ἀπίστοις, οὐδὲν καθαρόν 2 Paul speaks of sinners as if they were physically dirty. Alternate translation: “if people are morally defiled and do not believe, they cannot do anything pure” or “when people are full of sin and unbelief, nothing that they do is acceptable to God” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1:16 abco rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast δὲ 1 The connecting word **but** introduces a contrast between what these corrupt people say (they know God) and what their actions show (they do not know God). (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
1:16 i3l2 τοῖς & ἔργοις ἀρνοῦνται 1 Alternate translation: “how they live proves that they do not know him”
1:16 ja47 βδελυκτοὶ ὄντες 1 Alternate translation: “They are disgusting”
2:intro h3il 0 # Titus 2 General Notes\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Gender roles\n\nScholars are divided over how to understand this passage in its historical and cultural context. Some scholars believe men and women are perfectly equal in all things. Other scholars believe God created men and women to serve in distinctly different roles in marriage and the church. Translators should be careful not to let how they understand this issue affect how they translate this passage.\n\n### Slavery\n\nPaul does not write in this chapter about whether slavery is good or bad. Paul teaches slaves to faithfully serve their masters. He teaches all believers to be godly and live rightly in every situation.
2:1 lfu1 Connecting Statement: 0 # Connecting Statement:\n\nPaul continues giving Titus reasons to preach God’s word, and explains how the older men, older women, young men, and slaves or servants should live as believers.
2:1 tpi2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit σὺ δὲ 1 Here, **you** is singular and refers to Titus. If it is helpful, you could include the name “Titus” here, as in the UST. ([[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2:1 ph2j τῇ ὑγιαινούσῃ διδασκαλίᾳ 1 See the note about **sound teaching** on [Titus 1:9](../01/09/pzi1). Alternate translation: “with sound doctrine” or “with correct teachings”
2:2 xyz3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis πρεσβύτας & εἶναι 1 The Greek does not have **are**, but only “Older men to be.” We could supply a verb here, drawing from the idea of **speak** in the previous verse, such as **teach** or **exhort**. Alternate translation: “Teach older men to be” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
2:2 xy13 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet νηφαλίους & σεμνούς, σώφρονας 1 These three words are very close in meaning and may be combined into one or two terms if the target language does not have three separate terms. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
2:2 xc6t νηφαλίους 1 Alternate translation: “sober-minded” or “self-controlled”
2:2 y3j2 σώφρονας 1 Alternate translation: “in control of their desires”
2:2 abc1 ὑγιαίνοντας τῇ πίστει 1 Here the word **sound** means to be firm and unwavering. See the note about **sound** on [Titus 1:9](../01/09/pzi1) and the note about **sound in faith** on [Titus 1:13](../01/13/je3r).
2:2 m14y rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns ὑγιαίνοντας τῇ πίστει 1 You can state the abstract noun **faith** as a verb if that is more clear in your language. Alternate translation: “firmly believe the true teachings about God” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2:2 z14y rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns τῇ ἀγάπῃ 1 You can state the abstract noun **love** as a verb if that is more clear in your language. Alternate translation: “truly love others” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2:2 a14y rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns τῇ ὑπομονῇ 1 You can state the abstract noun **perseverance** as a verb if that is more clear in your language. Alternate translation: “and continually serve God even when things are difficult” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2:3 gl8e rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis πρεσβύτιδας ὡσαύτως 1 The Greek does not have **are to be**, but only “older women likewise.” We could continue the verbal idea from the previous two verses and apply that here, as well, such as **teach** or **exhort**. Alternate translation: “In the same way, teach older women to be” or “Also teach older women to be” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
2:3 v9cp διαβόλους 1 The word **slanderers** refers to people who say bad things about other people whether they are true or not.
2:3 g9re rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor οἴνῳ πολλῷ δεδουλωμένας 1 People who cannot control themselves and drink too much wine are spoken of as if they were a slave to the wine. Alternate translation: “controlled by their desire for wine” or “addicted to wine” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2:3 xyz4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive οἴνῳ πολλῷ δεδουλωμένας 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “drinking too much wine” or “addicted to wine” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2:3 abc4 καλοδιδασκάλους 1 The Greek word used here means “a teacher of what is good.” The phrase **but to be** has been added in the English to contrast this good quality with the two preceding bad qualities. Consider if you need to use a similar word to make a contrast between the good and bad qualities.
2:4 abc5 φιλάνδρους 1 Alternate translation: “lovers of their own husbands”
2:4 abca φιλοτέκνους 1 Alternate translation: “and lovers of their own children”
2:5 abcb ὑποτασσομένας τοῖς ἰδίοις ἀνδράσιν 1 Alternate translation: “and to obey their own husbands”
2:5 t5v6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy ἵνα μὴ ὁ λόγος τοῦ Θεοῦ βλασφημῆται 1 Here, **word** is a metonym for “message.” which in turn is a metonym for God himself. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2:5 abcq rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive ἵνα μὴ ὁ λόγος τοῦ Θεοῦ βλασφημῆται 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “so that no one insults the word of God” or “so that no one insults God by saying bad things about his message” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2:6 i3hv ὡσαύτως 1 Titus was to train the younger men just as he was to train the older people.
2:7 x73u σεαυτὸν παρεχόμενος 1 Alternate translation: “show yourself to be” or “you yourself must serve”
2:7 ym6x τύπον καλῶν ἔργων 1 Alternate translation: “as an example of one who does right and proper things”
2:8 xy14 ὑγιῆ 1 This word **sound** has the same basic meaning as “uncorrupted” in 2:7. In 2:7, Paul states the meaning negatively: “uncorrupted,” meaning, “without error,” and in 2:8 he states the meaning positively: **sound**, meaning “correct.” Both terms refer to Titus’ teaching. Use either positive or negative terms in the target language, or use one term with this meaning in both places if it is difficult to use two terms.
2:8 xt6v rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo ἵνα ὁ ἐξ ἐναντίας ἐντραπῇ 1 This presents a hypothetical situation in which someone opposes Titus and then becomes ashamed for having done so. Alternate translation: “so that if anyone opposes you, he may be ashamed” or “so that when people oppose you, they may be ashamed” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
2:8 xy15 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive ἡμῶν 1 Here, **us** includes Paul, Titus, and all Christians. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
2:9 xyz5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis δούλους ἰδίοις δεσπόταις ὑποτάσσεσθαι 1 The Greek does not have **are**, but only “slaves to be subject to their masters.” We could apply the verbal idea from verse 6 to here, which is “urge” or “exhort.” Alternate translation: “Exhort slaves to be subject to their masters” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
2:10 f8jy τὴν διδασκαλίαν τὴν τοῦ Σωτῆρος ἡμῶν, Θεοῦ, κοσμῶσιν 1 Alternate translation: “they may make the teaching about God our Savior attractive” or “they may cause people to understand that the teaching about God our Savior is good”
2:10 pn93 Σωτῆρος ἡμῶν, Θεοῦ 1 Alternate translation: “our God who saves us”
2:10 xy16 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive ἡμῶν 1 Here, **our** is inclusive of Paul, Titus, and all Christians. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
2:11 y44u Connecting Statement: 0 # Connecting Statement:\n\nPaul encourages Titus to look for Jesus’ coming and remember his authority through Jesus.
2:11 gp2z rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification ἐπεφάνη & ἡ χάρις τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 Paul speaks of **the grace of God** as if it were a person who has arrived. See the UST for other ways to express this. Alternate translation: “God is now offering his grace” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
2:12 qy8k rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification παιδεύουσα ἡμᾶς 1 Paul speaks of the grace of God (2:11) as if it were a person who trains other people how to live holy lives. Alternate translation: “by which God trains us” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
2:12 abce rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive ἡμᾶς 1 Here, **us** includes Paul, Titus, and all Christians. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
2:12 n3k5 τὰς κοσμικὰς ἐπιθυμίας 1 Alternate translation: “strong desires for the things of this world” or “strong desires for sinful pleasures”
2:12 xy19 ἀσέβειαν & εὐσεβῶς 1 These terms are direct opposites, meaning “God-dishonoring” and “God-honoring,” respectively.
2:12 fk8j ἐν τῷ νῦν αἰῶνι 1 Alternate translation: “while we live in this world” or “during this time”
2:13 rz93 προσδεχόμενοι 1 Alternate translation: “while we wait to welcome”
2:13 xyz6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy τὴν μακαρίαν ἐλπίδα 1 Here, what is **blessed** is that for which we hope, which is the return of Jesus Christ. Alternate translation: “the wonderful thing for which we hope” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2:13 pss7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy καὶ ἐπιφάνειαν τῆς δόξης τοῦ μεγάλου Θεοῦ καὶ Σωτῆρος ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ 1 Here, **glory** represents Jesus himself who will appear gloriously. Alternate translation: “that is, the glorious appearance of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2:13 abcf rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys τὴν μακαρίαν ἐλπίδα, καὶ ἐπιφάνειαν τῆς δόξης 1 Both **blessed hope** and **appearing of the glory** refer to the same event. This can be shown clearly. Alternate translation: “what we are longing for, the blessed and glorious appearing” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys]])
2:13 xyz7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys τοῦ μεγάλου Θεοῦ καὶ Σωτῆρος ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ 1 Both **our great God** and **Savior** refer to the one person, **Jesus Christ**. Alternate translation: “of Jesus Christ, our great God and Savior” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys]])
2:14 niu4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit ὃς ἔδωκεν ἑαυτὸν ὑπὲρ ἡμῶν 1 This refers to Jesus dying willingly. Alternate translation: “gave himself to die for us” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2:14 xy20 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive ἡμῶν 1 Here, **us** includes Paul, Titus, and all Christians. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
2:14 gxe7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor λυτρώσηται ἡμᾶς ἀπὸ πάσης ἀνομίας 1 Paul speaks of Jesus as if he were setting slaves free from their evil master. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2:14 xy21 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive ἡμᾶς 1 Here, **us** includes Paul, Titus, and all Christians. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
2:14 fjy1 λαὸν περιούσιον 1 Alternate translation: “a group of people that he treasures”
2:14 ii18 ζηλωτὴν καλῶν ἔργων 1 Alternate translation: “who are eager to do good deeds”
2:15 abc7 παρακάλει 1 Alternate translation: “encourage them to do these things”
2:15 b94z rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit ἔλεγχε, μετὰ πάσης ἐπιταγῆς 1 If it is helpful, the people whom Titus should **rebuke** can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “correct with all authority those people who do not do these things” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2:15 h15y μηδείς σου περιφρονείτω 1 Alternate translation: “Do not allow anyone to ignore you”
2:15 xy22 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives μηδείς σου περιφρονείτω 1 You can state this positively: “Make sure that everyone listens to you” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
2:15 jbu1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit σου περιφρονείτω 1 The way that people would disregard Titus can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “Let … refuse to listen to your words” or “Let … refuse to respect you” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
3:intro zh6x 0 # Titus 3 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nPaul gives Titus personal instructions in this chapter.\n\nVerse 15 formally concludes this letter. This is a common way of ending a letter in the ancient Near East.\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Genealogies\n\nGenealogies (verse 9) are lists that record a person’s ancestors or descendants, and show from what tribe and family a person came. For example, priests came from the tribe of Levi and the family of Aaron. Some of these lists included stories of ancestors and even of spiritual beings. These lists and stories were used to argue about where things came from and about how important various people were.
3:1 y9tr Connecting Statement: 0 # Connecting Statement:\n\nPaul continues giving Titus instructions on how to teach the elders and people under his care in Crete.
3:1 j2sa ὑπομίμνῃσκε αὐτοὺς & ὑποτάσσεσθαι 1 Alternate translation: “Tell our people again what they already know, to submit” or “Keep reminding them to submit”
3:1 w3fy ἀρχαῖς, ἐξουσίαις, ὑποτάσσεσθαι, πειθαρχεῖν 1 Alternate translation: “to do as the political rulers and government authorities say by obeying them”
3:1 wa9x rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet ἀρχαῖς, ἐξουσίαις 1 The words **rulers** and **authorities** have similar meanings and both refer to anyone who holds authority in the government. If the target language has only one term for this, then just use that term. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
3:1 xy25 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet ὑποτάσσεσθαι, πειθαρχεῖν 1 The words **submit** and **obey** have similar meanings and both refer to doing what someone tells you to do. If the target language has only one term for this, then just use that term. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
3:1 in7u πρὸς πᾶν ἔργον ἀγαθὸν ἑτοίμους εἶναι 1 Alternate translation: “to be ready to do good whenever there is opportunity”
3:2 abcx rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives ἀμάχους εἶναι 1 You can state this positively: “to be peaceful” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
3:3 m9zd ἦμεν γάρ ποτε καὶ ἡμεῖς 1 Alternate translation: “This is because we ourselves were once”
3:3 me7b ποτε 1 Alternate translation: “formerly” or “at some time” or “previously”
3:3 bl8e rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive ἡμεῖς 1 Here, **we** includes Paul, Titus, and all Christians, referring to the time before they trusted in Christ. Alternate translation: “even we” or “we ourselves” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
3:3 qt8f rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification πλανώμενοι, δουλεύοντες ἐπιθυμίαις καὶ ἡδοναῖς ποικίλαις 1 Here, **passions** and **pleasures** are spoken of as if they were masters over people and had made those people into slaves by lying to them. Alternate translation: “We had allowed ourselves to believe the lie that various passions and pleasures could make us happy, and then we were unable to control our feelings or stop doing things we thought would give us pleasure” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
3:3 xy27 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive πλανώμενοι, δουλεύοντες ἐπιθυμίαις καὶ ἡδοναῖς ποικίλαις 1 You can translate this in active form. Alternate translation: “Various passions and pleasures had lied to us and so led us astray” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
3:3 tl5n ἐπιθυμίαις 1 Alternate translation: “lusts” or “desires”
3:3 dec4 ἐν κακίᾳ καὶ φθόνῳ διάγοντες 1 Here, **evil** and **envy** describe sin. The word **evil** is general and **envy** is a specific kind of sin. Alternate translation: “We were always doing evil things and wanting what others have”
3:3 y5lp στυγητοί 1 Alternate translation: “causing others to hate us”
3:4 xy28 rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast δὲ 1 **But** is used here to mark the important contrast here between the evil way that people are (verses 1–3) and the goodness of God (verses 4–7) (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
3:4 ba5a rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification ὅτε & ἡ χρηστότης καὶ ἡ φιλανθρωπία ἐπεφάνη τοῦ Σωτῆρος ἡμῶν, Θεοῦ 1 Paul speaks of God’s **kindness** and **love** as if they were people that came into our sight. Alternate translation: “when God our Savior showed us his kindness and love for people” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
3:4 abcg rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns ὅτε & ἡ χρηστότης καὶ ἡ φιλανθρωπία ἐπεφάνη τοῦ Σωτῆρος ἡμῶν, Θεοῦ 1 You can state the abstract nouns **kindness** and **love** as adjectives. Alternate translation: “when God, who saves us, showed how kind and loving he would be to mankind” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
3:4 abch rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive ἡμῶν 1 Here, **our** includes Paul, Titus, and all Christians. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
3:5 n4ug κατὰ τὸ αὐτοῦ ἔλεος 1 Alternate translation: “because he had mercy on us”
3:5 k1a6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor λουτροῦ παλινγενεσίας 1 Paul combines two metaphors here. He is speaking of God’s forgiveness for sinners as if he were physically **washing** them clean from their sin. He is also speaking of sinners who become responsive to God as if they had been born again. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
3:6 fby9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor οὗ ἐξέχεεν ἐφ’ ἡμᾶς πλουσίως 1 It is common for New Testament writers to speak of the Holy Spirit as a liquid that God can pour out in large amounts. Alternate translation: “whom God gave to us generously” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
3:6 xy24 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive ἡμᾶς 1 Here, **us** includes Paul, Titus, and all Christians. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
3:6 xy23 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive ἡμῶν 1 Here, **our** includes Paul, Titus, and all Christians. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
3:7 di3g rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive δικαιωθέντες 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “since God has declared us to be without sin” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
3:7 q1cm rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor κληρονόμοι γενηθῶμεν, κατ’ ἐλπίδα ζωῆς αἰωνίου 1 The people to whom God has made promises are spoken of as if they were to inherit the things promised, just as a person inherits property or possessions from a family member. Alternate translation: “we might expect to receive the eternal life that God has promised us” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
3:8 j8md ὁ λόγος 1 This **message** is the one just expressed in verses 4–7, that God freely gives the Holy Spirit and eternal life to believers through Jesus.
3:8 xy29 τούτων 1 Here, **these things** refers to the teachings that Paul has talked about in verses 1–7. Alternate translation: “these teachings that I have just talked about”
3:8 kqm6 φροντίζωσιν καλῶν ἔργων, προΐστασθαι 1 Alternate translation: “may seek to do good works”
3:9 tzh9 Connecting Statement: 0 # Connecting Statement:\n\nPaul explains what Titus should avoid and how to treat those who cause contention among the believers.
3:9 qk66 γενεαλογίας 1 The word **genealogies** refers to the study of family kinship relationships. See the Introduction to Titus.
3:9 xu7f ἔρεις 1 Alternate translation: “arguments” or “fights”
3:9 ky3n νομικὰς 1 Alternate translation: “about the law of Moses”
3:10 x3fh αἱρετικὸν ἄνθρωπον & παραιτοῦ 1 Alternate translation: “Stay away from a person who causes division”
3:10 xzx1 μετὰ μίαν καὶ δευτέραν νουθεσίαν 1 Alternate translation: “after you have warned that person once or twice”
3:11 r7pc ὁ τοιοῦτος 1 Alternate translation: “a person like that”
3:11 inh5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ἐξέστραπται 1 Paul speaks of someone who chooses to do wrong things as if he were leaving the **right** path to walk in the wrong direction. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
3:12 z7i4 Connecting Statement: 0 # Connecting Statement:\n\nPaul closes the letter by telling Titus what to do after he appoints elders in Crete and by giving greetings from those with him.
3:12 mba6 ὅταν πέμψω 1 Alternate translation: “After I send”
3:12 c32w rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Ἀρτεμᾶν & Τυχικόν 1 **Artemas** and **Tychicus** are men’s names. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
3:12 xy30 σπούδασον 1 The verb **hurry** is singular and directed at Titus alone. Artemas or Tychicus would stay in Crete, probably to take Titus’ place.
3:12 gdw9 παραχειμάσαι 1 Alternate translation: “to stay for the winter”
3:13 a46f rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names Ζηνᾶν & Ἀπολλῶν 1 **Zenos** is a man's name. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
3:13 s757 καὶ Ἀπολλῶν 1 Alternate translation: “and also Apollos”
3:13 j496 σπουδαίως πρόπεμψον 1 Alternate translation: “Do not delay in sending”
3:13 xy31 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives ἵνα μηδὲν αὐτοῖς λείπῃ 1 You can state this positively: “so that they have everything that they need” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
3:14 v7wg Connecting Statement: 0 # Connecting Statement:\n\nPaul explains that it is important for all believers to provide for those who have needs.
3:14 fw98 οἱ ἡμέτεροι 1 Here, **our own** refers to the believers in Crete. Alternate translation: “our own people”
3:14 xy33 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive οἱ ἡμέτεροι 1 Here, **our** includes Paul and Titus. The form should be either dual or inclusive. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
3:14 tn24 εἰς τὰς ἀναγκαίας χρείας 1 Alternate translation: “that enable them to help people who lack necessary things”
3:14 mji4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ἵνα μὴ ὦσιν ἄκαρποι 1 Paul speaks of people doing good work as if they were trees bearing good fruit. Alternate translation: “so that they will not lead useless lives” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
3:14 xy32 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives ἵνα μὴ ὦσιν ἄκαρποι 1 You can state this positively: “in this way they will be fruitful” or “in this way they will be productive” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
3:15 abci ἀσπάζονταί σε 1 Here, **you** is singular. This is a personal greeting to Titus.
3:15 k1sa οἱ μετ’ ἐμοῦ πάντες 1 Alternate translation: “All the people who are with me” or “All of the believers who are here with me”
3:15 f4vc τοὺς φιλοῦντας ἡμᾶς ἐν πίστει 1 This could refer to: (1) the believers who love us. (2) the believers who love us because we share the same belief.
3:15 xy35 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive ἡμᾶς 1 Here, **us** is probably exclusive and refers to Paul and the group of Christians with him. Paul is sending greetings from this group to the group of Christians that is with Titus on Crete. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
3:15 kx83 ἡ χάρις μετὰ πάντων ὑμῶν 1 This was a common Christian greeting. Alternate translation: “May God’s grace be with you” or “I ask that God will be gracious to all of you”
3:15 xy34 ὑμῶν 1 Here, **you** is plural. This blessing is for Titus and all of the believers there in Crete.
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