TIT front intro m2jl 0 # Introduction to Titus<br><br>## Part 1: General Introduction<br><br>### Outline of the book of Titus<br><br>1. Paul instructs Titus to appoint godly leaders. (1:1–16)<br>2. Paul instructs Titus to train people to live godly lives. (2:1–3:11)<br>3. Paul ends by sharing some of his plans and sending greetings to various believers. (3:12–15)<br><br>### Who wrote the book of Titus?<br><br>Paul 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.<br><br>### What is the book of Titus about?<br><br>Paul 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.<br><br>### How should the title of this book be translated?<br><br>Translators 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://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])<br><br>## Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts<br><br>### In what roles can people serve within the church?<br><br>There 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.<br><br>## Part 3: Important Translation Issues<br><br>### Singular and plural **you**<br><br>In 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])<br><br>### What is the meaning of **God our Savior**?<br><br>This 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**.
TIT 1 intro c7me 0 # Titus 1 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Paul formally introduces this letter in verses 1–4. Writers often began letters in this way in the ancient Near East.<br><br>In verses 6–9, Paul lists several qualities that a man must have if he is to be an elder in the church. (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns) Paul gives a similar list in 1 Timothy 3.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Elders<br><br>The church has used different titles for church leaders. Some titles include overseer, elder, pastor, and bishop.<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### Should, may, must<br><br>The 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.
TIT 1 1 rtc9 figs-abstractnouns κατὰ πίστιν 1 for the faith 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
TIT 1 1 xyz8 figs-abstractnouns ἐπίγνωσιν 1 the knowledge 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
TIT 1 1 abc8 figs-abstractnouns ἀληθείας 1 of the truth 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
TIT 1 1 fyf8 figs-abstractnouns τῆς κατ’ εὐσέβειαν 1 that agrees with godliness 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
TIT 1 2 xyz9 ἐπ’ ἐλπίδι ζωῆς αἰωνίου 1 with the certain hope of everlasting life Alternate translation: “that gives us the certain hope of everlasting life” or “based on our certain hope for everlasting life”
TIT 1 2 r2gj πρὸ χρόνων αἰωνίων 1 before all the ages of time Alternate translation: “before time began”
TIT 1 3 b22h καιροῖς ἰδίοις 1 at the right time Alternate translation: “at the proper time”
TIT 1 3 swi9 figs-metaphor ἐφανέρωσεν…τὸν λόγον αὐτοῦ 1 he revealed his word 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
TIT 1 3 m41u figs-activepassive ὃ ἐπιστεύθην ἐγὼ 1 that I was entrusted with 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
TIT 1 4 gu55 figs-metaphor γνησίῳ τέκνῳ 1 a true son 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
TIT 1 4 h93t figs-ellipsis χάρις καὶ εἰρήνη 1 Grace and peace 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
TIT 1 5 ew8h grammar-connect-logic-goal τούτου χάριν 1 For this purpose 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://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
TIT 1 5 lh9b ἀπέλιπόν σε ἐν Κρήτῃ 1 I left you in Crete Alternate translation: “I told you to stay in Crete”
TIT 1 5 ga62 ἵνα τὰ λείποντα ἐπιδιορθώσῃ 1 that you might set in order things not yet complete Alternate translation: “so that you would finish arranging things that needed to be done”
TIT 1 5 p56w πρεσβυτέρους 1 elders 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.
TIT 1 6 wja4 0 Connecting Statement: Having told Titus to ordain elders in every city on the island of Crete, Paul then gives the requirements for elders.
TIT 1 6 jen8 εἴ τίς ἐστιν ἀνέγκλητος 1 if anyone is blameless 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”
TIT 1 6 ab70 figs-doublenegatives ἀνέγκλητος 1 blameless 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
TIT 1 6 q6uy figs-explicit μιᾶς γυναικὸς ἀνήρ 1 the husband of one wife 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
TIT 1 7 lz7x τὸν ἐπίσκοπον 1 the overseer 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.
TIT 1 7 g2zf figs-metaphor Θεοῦ οἰκονόμον 1 the household manager of God 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
TIT 1 8 i549 grammar-connect-logic-contrast ἀλλὰ 1 Instead 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://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
TIT 1 8 xy11 figs-doublet σώφρονα…ἐγκρατῆ 1 sensible … and self-controlled These two terms are very similar in meaning and may be translated by one term if the target language does not have two similar terms. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
TIT 1 8 xy12 figs-doublet δίκαιον, ὅσιον 1 righteous, holy These two terms are very similar in meaning and may be translated by one term if the target language does not have two similar terms. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
TIT 1 9 xwy6 figs-metaphor ἀντεχόμενον 1 He must hold tightly to 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
TIT 1 9 abcj grammar-connect-logic-goal ἵνα 1 so that 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://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
TIT 1 9 pzi1 τῇ διδασκαλίᾳ τῇ ὑγιαινούσῃ 1 sound teaching 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.
TIT 1 10 xsq9 0 Connecting Statement: Because of those that would oppose God’s word, Paul gives Titus reasons to preach God’s word and warns him about false teachers.
TIT 1 10 w9kk figs-metaphor ἀνυπότακτοι, ματαιολόγοι 1 rebellious, empty talkers 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
TIT 1 10 ga6n φρεναπάται 1 deceivers 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”
TIT 1 10 abcd figs-hendiadys ματαιολόγοι, καὶ φρεναπάται 1 empty talkers and deceivers Both **empty talkers** and **deceivers** refer to the same people. They taught false, worthless things and wanted people to believe them. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys]])
TIT 1 10 pu74 figs-metonymy οἱ ἐκ τῆς περιτομῆς 1 those from the circumcision This refers to the Jewish Christians who taught that men must be circumcised in order to follow Christ. This teaching is false. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
TIT 1 11 f4iy οὓς δεῖ ἐπιστομίζειν 1 It is necessary to stop them Alternate translation: “You must prevent them from spreading their teachings” or “Someone must stop them from influencing others by their words”
TIT 1 11 aqi5 ὅλους οἴκους ἀνατρέπουσιν 1 are upsetting whole households The issue was that they were leading families away from the truth and destroying their faith. Alternate translation: “are ruining entire families”
TIT 1 11 tw4e διδάσκοντες ἃ μὴ δεῖ 1 teaching what they should not These are things that are not proper to teach regarding Christ and the law because they are not true.
TIT 1 11 at7c αἰσχροῦ κέρδους χάριν 1 for the sake of shameful profit This refers to **profit** that people make by doing things that are not honorable.
TIT 1 12 tr1j τις ἐξ αὐτῶν, ἴδιος αὐτῶν προφήτης 1 One of them, of their own prophets Alternate translation: “A Cretan that they themselves consider to be a prophet”
TIT 1 12 y3zb figs-hyperbole Κρῆτες ἀεὶ ψεῦσται 1 Cretans are always liars This is an exaggeration that means that **Cretans** had a reputation to be **liars**. Alternate translation: “Cretans lie all the time” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
TIT 1 12 xyz1 figs-synecdoche γαστέρες ἀργαί 1 lazy bellies 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
TIT 1 13 fif8 δι’ ἣν αἰτίαν ἔλεγχε αὐτοὺς ἀποτόμως 1 For this reason, rebuke them severely Alternate translation: “For that reason, you must use strong language that the Cretans will understand when you correct them”
TIT 1 13 abck grammar-connect-logic-result δι’ ἣν αἰτίαν 1 For this reason 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://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
TIT 1 13 je3r ἵνα ὑγιαίνωσιν ἐν τῇ πίστει 1 so that they may be sound in the faith 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”
TIT 1 13 abcl grammar-connect-logic-goal ἵνα 1 so that 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://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
TIT 1 13 xyz2 figs-abstractnouns ἐν τῇ πίστει 1 in the faith Here the abstract noun **faith** represents the things that the people believe about God. Alternate translation: “in what they believe about God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
TIT 1 14 abcm grammar-connect-logic-contrast μὴ 1 not 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://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
TIT 1 14 p28i Ἰουδαϊκοῖς μύθοις 1 to Jewish myths This refers to the false teaching of the Jews.
TIT 1 14 m4a5 figs-metaphor ἀποστρεφομένων τὴν ἀλήθειαν 1 who turn away from the truth 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
TIT 1 15 qtb9 πάντα καθαρὰ τοῖς καθαροῖς 1 All things are pure to those who are pure 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”
TIT 1 15 nx42 τοῖς καθαροῖς 1 to those who are pure Alternate translation: “to those who are acceptable to God”
TIT 1 15 abcn grammar-connect-logic-contrast δὲ 1 But The connecting word **But** introduces a contrast between people who are pure and people who are corrupt and unbelieving. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
TIT 1 15 n3wk figs-metaphor τοῖς…μεμιαμμένοις καὶ ἀπίστοις, οὐδὲν καθαρόν 2 to those who are corrupt and unbelieving, nothing is pure 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
TIT 1 16 abco grammar-connect-logic-contrast δὲ 1 but 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://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
TIT 2 intro h3il 0 # Titus 2 General Notes<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Gender roles<br><br>Scholars 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.<br><br>### Slavery<br><br>Paul 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.
TIT 2 1 lfu1 0 Connecting Statement: Paul 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.
TIT 2 1 tpi2 figs-explicit σὺ δὲ 1 But you Here, **you** is singular and refers to Titus. If it is helpful, you could include the name “Titus” here, as in the UST. ([[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
TIT 2 1 ph2j τῇ ὑγιαινούσῃ διδασκαλίᾳ 1 with sound teaching See the note about **sound teaching** on [Titus 1:9](../01/09/pzi1). Alternate translation: “with sound doctrine” or “with correct teachings”
TIT 2 2 xyz3 figs-ellipsis πρεσβύτας…εἶναι 1 Older men are to be 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
TIT 2 2 xy13 figs-doublet νηφαλίους…σεμνούς, σώφρονας 1 temperate, dignified, sensible 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
TIT 2 2 abc1 ὑγιαίνοντας τῇ πίστει 1 sound in faith 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).
TIT 2 2 m14y figs-abstractnouns ὑγιαίνοντας τῇ πίστει 1 sound in faith 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
TIT 2 2 z14y figs-abstractnouns τῇ ἀγάπῃ 1 in love 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
TIT 2 2 a14y figs-abstractnouns τῇ ὑπομονῇ 1 and in perseverance 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
TIT 2 3 gl8e figs-ellipsis πρεσβύτιδας ὡσαύτως 1 Older women likewise are to be 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
TIT 2 3 v9cp διαβόλους 1 slanderers The word **slanderers** refers to people who say bad things about other people whether they are true or not.
TIT 2 3 g9re figs-metaphor οἴνῳ πολλῷ δεδουλωμένας 1 enslaved to much wine 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
TIT 2 3 xyz4 figs-activepassive οἴνῳ πολλῷ δεδουλωμένας 1 enslaved to much wine 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
TIT 2 3 abc4 καλοδιδασκάλους 1 but to be teachers of what is good 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.
TIT 2 5 t5v6 figs-metonymy ἵνα μὴ ὁ λόγος τοῦ Θεοῦ βλασφημῆται 1 so that the word of God may not be insulted Here, **word** is a metonym for “message.” which in turn is a metonym for God himself. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
TIT 2 5 abcq figs-activepassive ἵνα μὴ ὁ λόγος τοῦ Θεοῦ βλασφημῆται 1 so that the word of God may not be insulted 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
TIT 2 8 xy14 ὑγιῆ 1 sound 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.
TIT 2 8 xt6v figs-hypo ἵνα ὁ ἐξ ἐναντίας ἐντραπῇ 1 so that the opponent may be ashamed 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
TIT 2 8 xy15 figs-exclusive ἡμῶν 1 us Here, **us** includes Paul, Titus, and all Christians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
TIT 2 9 xyz5 figs-ellipsis δούλους ἰδίοις δεσπόταις ὑποτάσσεσθαι 1 Slaves are to be subject to their own masters 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
TIT 2 9 abcc ὑποτάσσεσθαι 1 are to be subject Alternate translation: “must obey”
TIT 2 9 if6v ἐν πᾶσιν 1 in everything Alternate translation: “in every situation” or “always”
TIT 2 9 id15 εὐαρέστους εἶναι 1 to be pleasing Alternate translation: “to please their masters” or “to satisfy their masters”
TIT 2 10 abc6 μὴ νοσφιζομένους 1 not to steal Alternate translation: “not to steal from their masters”
TIT 2 10 t87j πᾶσαν πίστιν ἐνδεικνυμένους ἀγαθήν 1 to demonstrate all good faith Alternate translation: “to show that they are worthy of their masters’ trust”
TIT 2 10 h2n6 ἐν πᾶσιν 1 in every way Alternate translation: “in everything they do”
TIT 2 10 f8jy τὴν διδασκαλίαν τὴν τοῦ Σωτῆρος ἡμῶν, Θεοῦ, κοσμῶσιν 1 they may bring credit to the teaching that is about God our Savior 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”
TIT 2 10 pn93 Σωτῆρος ἡμῶν, Θεοῦ 1 God our Savior Alternate translation: “our God who saves us”
TIT 2 10 xy16 figs-exclusive ἡμῶν 1 our Here, **our** is inclusive of Paul, Titus, and all Christians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
TIT 2 11 gp2z figs-personification ἐπεφάνη…ἡ χάρις τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 the grace of God has appeared 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
TIT 2 12 qy8k figs-personification παιδεύουσα ἡμᾶς 1 training us 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
TIT 2 12 n3k5 τὰς κοσμικὰς ἐπιθυμίας 1 worldly passions Alternate translation: “strong desires for the things of this world” or “strong desires for sinful pleasures”
TIT 2 13 xyz6 figs-metonymy τὴν μακαρίαν ἐλπίδα 1 the blessed hope 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
TIT 2 13 pss7 figs-metonymy καὶ ἐπιφάνειαν τῆς δόξης τοῦ μεγάλου Θεοῦ καὶ Σωτῆρος ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ 1 and appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
TIT 2 13 abcf figs-hendiadys τὴν μακαρίαν ἐλπίδα, καὶ ἐπιφάνειαν τῆς δόξης 1 the blessed hope and appearing of the glory 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys]])
TIT 2 13 xyz7 figs-hendiadys τοῦ μεγάλου Θεοῦ καὶ Σωτῆρος ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ 1 of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys]])
TIT 2 14 niu4 figs-explicit ἔδωκεν ἑαυτὸν ὑπὲρ ἡμῶν 1 gave himself for us This refers to Jesus dying willingly. Alternate translation: “gave himself to die for us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
TIT 2 14 gxe7 figs-metaphor λυτρώσηται ἡμᾶς ἀπὸ πάσης ἀνομίας 1 to redeem us from all lawlessness Paul speaks of Jesus as if he were setting slaves free from their evil master. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
TIT 2 15 b94z figs-explicit ἔλεγχε, μετὰ πάσης ἐπιταγῆς 1 rebuke with all authority If it is helpful, the people whom Titus should correct can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “correct with all authority those people who do not do these things” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
TIT 2 15 xy22 figs-doublenegatives μηδείς σου περιφρονείτω 1 Let no one disregard you You can state this positively: “Make sure that everyone listens to you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
TIT 2 15 jbu1 figs-explicit σου περιφρονείτω 1 Let … disregard you 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
TIT 3 intro zh6x 0 # Titus 3 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Paul gives Titus personal instructions in this chapter.<br><br>Verse 15 formally concludes this letter. This is a common way of ending a letter in the ancient Near East.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Genealogies<br><br>Genealogies (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.
TIT 3 1 j2sa ὑπομίμνῃσκε αὐτοὺς…ὑποτάσσεσθαι 1 Remind them to submit Alternate translation: “Tell our people again what they already know, to submit” or “Keep reminding them to submit”
TIT 3 1 w3fy ἀρχαῖς, ἐξουσίαις, ὑποτάσσεσθαι, πειθαρχεῖν 1 to submit to rulers and authorities, to obey them Alternate translation: “to do as the political rulers and government authorities say by obeying them”
TIT 3 1 wa9x figs-doublet ἀρχαῖς, ἐξουσίαις 1 to rulers and authorities These words 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
TIT 3 1 xy25 figs-doublet ὑποτάσσεσθαι, πειθαρχεῖν 1 to submit … to obey them These words 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
TIT 3 1 in7u πρὸς πᾶν ἔργον ἀγαθὸν ἑτοίμους εἶναι 1 be ready for every good work Alternate translation: “to be ready to do good whenever there is opportunity”
TIT 3 2 abcx figs-doublenegatives ἀμάχους εἶναι 1 to be uncontentious You can state this positively: “to be peaceful” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
TIT 3 3 bl8e figs-exclusive ἡμεῖς 1 we This includes Paul, Titus, and all Christians, referring to the time before they trusted in Christ. Alternate translation: “even we” or “we ourselves” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
TIT 3 3 qt8f figs-personification πλανώμενοι, δουλεύοντες ἐπιθυμίαις καὶ ἡδοναῖς ποικίλαις 1 We were led astray and enslaved by various passions and pleasures Passion and pleasure 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
TIT 3 3 xy27 figs-activepassive πλανώμενοι, δουλεύοντες ἐπιθυμίαις καὶ ἡδοναῖς ποικίλαις 1 We were led astray and enslaved by various passions and pleasures You can translate this in active form. Alternate translation: “Various passions and pleasures had lied to us and so led us astray” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
TIT 3 3 dec4 ἐν κακίᾳ καὶ φθόνῳ διάγοντες 1 We lived in evil and envy 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”
TIT 3 4 xy28 grammar-connect-logic-contrast δὲ 1 But It is important to mark the contrast here between the evil way that people are (verses 1–3) and the goodness of God (verses 4–7) (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
TIT 3 4 ba5a figs-personification ὅτε…ἡ χρηστότης καὶ ἡ φιλανθρωπία ἐπεφάνη τοῦ Σωτῆρος ἡμῶν, Θεοῦ 1 when the kindness of God our Savior and his love for mankind appeared 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
TIT 3 4 abcg figs-abstractnouns ὅτε…ἡ χρηστότης καὶ ἡ φιλανθρωπία ἐπεφάνη τοῦ Σωτῆρος ἡμῶν, Θεοῦ 1 when the kindness of God our Savior and his love for mankind appeared 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
TIT 3 5 k1a6 figs-metaphor λουτροῦ παλινγενεσίας 1 the washing of new birth 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
TIT 3 6 fby9 figs-metaphor οὗ ἐξέχεεν ἐφ’ ἡμᾶς πλουσίως 1 whom God richly poured on us 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
TIT 3 7 di3g figs-activepassive δικαιωθέντες 1 having been justified 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
TIT 3 7 q1cm figs-metaphor κληρονόμοι γενηθῶμεν, κατ’ ἐλπίδα ζωῆς αἰωνίου 1 we might become heirs according to the certain hope of everlasting life 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
TIT 3 8 j8md ὁ λόγος 1 This message 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.
TIT 3 8 xy29 τούτων 1 these things This refers to the teachings that Paul has talked about in verses 1–7. Alternate translation: “these teachings that I have just talked about”
TIT 3 8 kqm6 φροντίζωσιν καλῶν ἔργων, προΐστασθαι 1 may be careful to engage themselves in good works Alternate translation: “may seek to do good works”
TIT 3 11 inh5 figs-metaphor ἐξέστραπται 1 has turned from the right way 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
TIT 3 12 z7i4 0 Connecting Statement: Paul closes the letter by telling Titus what to do after he appoints elders in Crete and by giving greetings from those with him.
TIT 3 12 xy30 σπούδασον 1 hurry The verb is singular and directed at Titus alone. Artemas or Tychicus would stay in Crete, probably to take Titus’ place.
TIT 3 13 xy31 figs-doublenegatives ἵνα μηδὲν αὐτοῖς λείπῃ 1 so that they lack nothing You can state this positively: “so that they have everything that they need” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
TIT 3 14 xy33 figs-exclusive οἱ ἡμέτεροι 1 our own Here, **our** includes Paul and Titus. The form should be either dual or inclusive. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
TIT 3 14 mji4 figs-metaphor ἵνα μὴ ὦσιν ἄκαρποι 1 in order not to be unfruitful 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
TIT 3 14 xy32 figs-doublenegatives ἵνα μὴ ὦσιν ἄκαρποι 1 in order not to be unfruitful You can state this positively: “in this way they will be fruitful” or “in this way they will be productive” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
TIT 3 15 k1sa οἱ μετ’ ἐμοῦ πάντες 1 All those who are with me Alternate translation: “All the people who are with me” or “All of the believers who are here with me”
TIT 3 15 f4vc τοὺς φιλοῦντας ἡμᾶς ἐν πίστει 1 those who love us in faith This could refer to: (1) the believers who love us. (2) the believers who love us because we share the same belief.
TIT 3 15 xy35 figs-exclusive ἡμᾶς 1 us 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
TIT 3 15 kx83 ἡ χάρις μετὰ πάντων ὑμῶν 1 Grace be with all of you 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”
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