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 ἐκλεκτῶν Θεοῦ καὶ ἐπίγνωσιν ἀληθείας 1 The words **faith**, **knowledge**, and **truth** are abstract nouns. If it would be more clear in your language, you could express those ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “to help God’s chosen people to continue to trust him and to know every true thing”
1:1 xrtm rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive ἐκλεκτῶν Θεοῦ 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “of the people whom God has chosen”
1:1 tn97 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis καὶ ἐπίγνωσιν ἀληθείας 1 Paul is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You could supply these words from earlier in the sentence if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “and for their knowledge of the truth” or “and so that the chosen people of God might know the truth”
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”
1:2 xyz9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases ἐπ’ ἐλπίδι ζωῆς αἰωνίου 1 Here **hope** could be connected to: (1) **godliness**, meaning that if we live to please God, we will have hope of eternal life. Alternate translation: “which gives us the certain hope of everlasting life” or (2) **knowledge of the truth**, meaning that this hope of eternal life is part of the truth, and that knowing the truth gives hope of eternal life. Alternate translation: “and that teaches us to expect eternal life”
1:2 u0gk rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns ἐπ’ ἐλπίδι ζωῆς αἰωνίου 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of **hope**, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “which leads us to confidently expect eternal life”
1:2 vyuu rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives ὁ ἀψευδὴς Θεὸς 1 If it would be clearer in your language, you could use a positive expression here instead of this double negative. Alternate translation: “God, who is completely trustworthy”
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”
1:3 abc9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit ἐν κηρύγματι 1 Paul assumes that his readers will understand that **the proclamation** refers to the message of the gospel of Jesus Christ. You could include this information if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: “by means of the proclamation of the message about Jesus”
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: “the one that he entrusted to me” or “the one that he gave me the responsibility to preach”
1:3 xy18 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive ἡμῶν 1 Here, **our** includes Paul, Titus, and all believers.
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”
1:4 wx6c rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns κατὰ κοινὴν πίστιν 1 Paul and Titus both share the same **faith** in Christ. If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of **faith**, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “because we both trust in Jesus Christ”
1:4 h93t rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis χάρις καὶ εἰρήνη 1 This was a common greeting Paul used. He is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You could supply these words if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “May you experience grace and peace”
1:4 vft3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns χάρις καὶ εἰρήνη ἀπὸ Θεοῦ Πατρὸς καὶ Χριστοῦ Ἰησοῦ τοῦ Σωτῆρος ἡμῶν 1 If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of **Grace** and **peace**, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “May God the Father and Christ Jesus our Savior be gracious to you and give you a peaceful spirit”
1:5 ew8h rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal τούτου χάριν 1 The phrase **For this purpose** introduces the goal that Paul wanted to accomplish when he left Titus in Crete (to ordain elders in the church). Use a phrase in your language that makes it clear that this is the purpose. Alternate translation: “This is why”
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 jen8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit εἴ τίς ἐστιν ἀνέγκλητος 1 This is the beginning of the description of the character of an elder. Paul assumes that Titus understands that he is to choose men who fit the following description. You could include this information if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: “an elder must be blameless” or “any man you choose to be an elder must be without blame”
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. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state this positively. Alternate translation: “a person who has a good reputation”
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”
1:6 wd6q τέκνα & πιστά 1 This could refer to: (1) children who believe in Jesus or (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. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “a person in charge of taking care of God's church”
1:8 i549 rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast ἀλλὰ 1 The connecting word **Instead** introduces a contrast between the things that an elder is not to be (that Paul already stated), and the things that an elder is to be (that Paul is about to state). Indicate this contrast in a way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “In contrast”
1:8 vkq1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor φιλάγαθον 1 Here Paul is speaking of **what is good** as if it were a person who could be someone's **friend**. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “a person who loves to do good things”
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.
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.
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. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different metaphor or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “He must carefully follow” or “He must be devoted to”
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 a purpose. Alternate translation: “because in this way”
1:9 pzi1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor τῇ διδασκαλίᾳ τῇ ὑγιαινούσῃ 1 The word translated here as **sound** normally refers to being physically healthy. Paul is speaking of this **teaching** as if it were a living thing that could be healthy or sick. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “correct teaching”
1:10 w9kk rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ματαιολόγοι 1 Here, **empty** is a metaphor for useless, and **empty talkers** are people who say useless or foolish things. Alternate translation: “people who say useless things”
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 convince 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 who are also **rebellious**. These people taught false, worthless things and wanted other people to believe them. Alternate translation: “people who say wrong things so that others will believe things that are not true”
1:10 pu74 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy οἱ ἐκ τῆς περιτομῆς 1 Here, **circumcision** represents the Jewish Christians who taught that men must be circumcised in order to please God. This teaching is false. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the ones who teach that men must be circumcised in order to please God”
1:11 f4iy rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit οὓς δεῖ ἐπιστομίζειν 1 The implication is that these people must be stopped from teaching. You could include this information if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: “You must prevent them from spreading their false teachings” or “Someone must stop them from deceiving others by their words”
1:11 aqi5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit ὅλους οἴκους ἀνατρέπουσιν 1 The issue was that they were leading families away from the truth and destroying their faith. You could include this information if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: “are ruining the faith of entire families”
1:11 at7c αἰσχροῦ κέρδους χάριν 1 Here, **shameful profit** refers to money that people are paid for doing things that are not honorable. Consider how to express this in your language.
1:12 y3zb rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole Κρῆτες ἀεὶ ψεῦσται 1 The word **always** here is an overstatement for emphasis. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different way to express the emphasis. Alternate translation: “Cretans have a reputation to be liars” or “Cretans tend to be liars”
1:12 h3jb rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor κακὰ θηρία 1 This metaphor is speaking of **Cretans** as if they were **evil beasts**. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “as dangerous as wild animals”
1:12 xyz1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche γαστέρες ἀργαί 1 Here the part of the body that stores food is used to represent the person who eats all the time. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression from your culture or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “lazy gluttons” or “lazy people who just want to eat”
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 for behaving that way. Use a connector in your language that makes it clear that what follows is a reason for what came before. Alternate translation: “Therefore”
1:13 dlgr rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns αὐτοὺς 1 Here the pronoun **them** could refer to: (1) the Cretan believers in general. This seems likely since the **testimony** is about all Cretans, and verse 14 says that they should not pay attention to “commands of people turning away from the truth.” In other words, they should not pay attention to the false teachers. Alternate translation: “the Cretan believers” or (2) the Cretan false teachers. In this case, verse 14 would be telling the false teachers not to pay attention to other false teachers. Alternate translation: “the false teachers”
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 Here, **so that** marks being **sound in the faith**, as well as what follows in verse 14, as the goal or purpose of rebuking the Cretans. Use a connector in your language that makes it clear that this is the purpose.
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”
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”
1:15 qtb9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-proverbs πάντα καθαρὰ τοῖς καθαροῖς 1 Here, Paul uses or invents a proverb in order to teach that being pure or pleasing to God is a matter of a person's inward thoughts, not a matter of outward actions or rituals. Translate this proverb in a way that will be recognized as a proverb and be meaningful in your language and culture. 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 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. Indicate this contrast in a way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “However,”
1:15 n3wk rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor τοῖς δὲ μεμιαμμένοις καὶ ἀπίστοις, οὐδὲν καθαρόν 1 Paul speaks of sinners as if they were physically corrupted or dirty. Alternate translation: “But if people are morally defiled and do not believe, they cannot do anything pure” or “But when people are full of sin and unbelief, nothing that they do is acceptable to God”
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). Indicate this contrast in a way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “nevertheless”
2:intro h3il 0 # Titus 2 General Notes\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.\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 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.
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 A verb is lacking here that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. If it would be clearer in your language, you 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”
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.
2:2 abc1 ὑγιαίνοντας τῇ πίστει τῇ ἀγάπῃ, τῇ ὑπομονῇ 1 Here the word **sound** means to be firm and unwavering. It applies to **faith**, **love**, and **perseverance**. 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). Alternate translation: “unwavering in faith, in loving others, and in continuing to persevere”
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: “to firmly believe the true teachings about God”
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: “to love others well”
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 to continually serve God in all circumstances”
2:3 gl8e rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis πρεσβύτιδας ὡσαύτως 1 Some verbs are lacking here that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. If it would be clearer in your language, you could continue the verbal ideas from the previous two verses and apply them here, as well, such as “teach … to be” or “exhort … to be.” Alternate translation: “In the same way, teach older women to be” or “Also teach older women to be”
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 here as if they were a slave to the wine. Alternate translation: “controlled by their desire for wine”
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”
2:3 abc4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast καλοδιδασκάλους 1 If it is helpful in your language, you can indicate the contrast between this good quality and the two preceding bad qualities. Alternate translation: “but rather teachers of what is good”
2:4 unh9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal ἵνα 1 Here, **so that** marks training **the younger women** as the goal or purpose of being “teachers of what is good” in verse 3. Of course, living in a good way, as verse 3 describes, helps the older women to be teachers of what is good. Use a connector in your language that makes it clear that what follows is the purpose.
2:5 papr rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal ἵνα 1 Here, **so that** marks not insulting **the word of God** as a goal or purpose of the good behavior described in verses 4 and 5. This is not the only purpose of living well, but if the young women of the church do not do these things, people will consider God's message to be worthless. Use a connector in your language that makes it clear that what follows is a purpose of what came before.
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”
2:5 t5v6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy ὁ λόγος τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 Here, **word** stands for “message.” If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression from your language or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the message from God”
2:6 i3hv ὡσαύτως 1 Paul's instructions for the different groups of believers are similar. See how you translated this phrase in verse 3.
2:7 tn76 περὶ πάντα 1 It is possible that this phrase is part of the previous sentence instead of this one. If the Bible used in your area uses this phrase to end the previous sentence, you may choose to do the same.
2:7 x73u σεαυτὸν παρεχόμενος 1 Alternate translation: “show yourself to be” or “you yourself must serve as”
2:7 cp3t rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns ἐν τῇ διδασκαλίᾳ ἀφθορίαν, σεμνότητα 1 If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of **incorruption** and **dignity**, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “In your teaching, be honest and serious”
2:8 xy14 ὑγιῆ 1 Here the word **sound** applies to Titus's **message** and means “accurate” or “correct,” as it does in [Titus 1:9](../01/09) and [2:1](../02/01) where it also applies to teaching. Alternate translation: “correct” or “true”
2:8 qe1k rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal ἵνα 1 Here, **so that** indicates that what follows is a purpose of what came before. Having a sound message will make any opponent ashamed of opposing such a message. Use a connector in your language that makes it clear that what follows is a purpose of what came before. Alternate translation: “in that way”
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”
2:8 xy15 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive ἡμῶν 1 Here, **us** includes Paul, Titus, and all believers.
2:9 xyz5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis δούλους ἰδίοις δεσπόταις ὑποτάσσεσθαι 1 As in 2:2 and 2:3, Paul is leaving out a word that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. If it would be clearer in your language, you could apply the verbal idea from verse 6 to here, which is “urge” or “exhort.” Alternate translation: “Exhort slaves to be subject to their own masters” or “Exhort slaves to obey their own masters”
2:9 id15 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit εὐαρέστους εἶναι 1 The implication is that the slaves are to be pleasing to their masters. You could include this information if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: “to please their masters” or “to satisfy their masters”
2:10 abc6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit μὴ νοσφιζομένους 1 The implication is that they would be tempted to steal from their masters. You could include this information if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: “not to steal from their masters”
2:10 fhwk rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast ἀλλὰ 1 Here the phrase **but instead** indicates a strong contrast between stealing and demonstrating good faith. In your translation, indicate this strong contrast in a way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “but rather”
2:10 s1ni rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal ἵνα 1 Here, **so that** marks bringing **credit to the teaching that is about God** as a goal or purpose of slaves demonstrating **all good faith** with their masters. Use a connector in your language that makes it clear that this is a purpose.
2:10 h2n6 ἐν πᾶσιν 1 Alternate translation: “in everything that they do”
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 xy16 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive ἡμῶν 1 Here, **our** is inclusive of Paul, Titus, and all believers.
2:11 tlbm rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result γὰρ 1 The word translated as **For** indicates that what follows is a reason for what came before. Use a connector in your language that makes it clear that what follows is a reason for what came before. Alternate translation: “They should do this because”
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”
2:11 czny rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns ἐπεφάνη γὰρ ἡ χάρις τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of **grace**, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “For God has been extremely kind”
2:11 n08x rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification σωτήριος πᾶσιν ἀνθρώποις 1 Here the word **salvific** describes God's **grace**, meaning that it is like a person who has the characteristic of saving people. Alternate translation: “able to save all men” or “working to save all men”
2:11 r94i rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations πᾶσιν ἀνθρώποις 1 Although the term **men** is masculine, Paul is using the word in a generic sense that includes both men and women. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a phrase that makes this clear. Alternate translation: “all people”
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”
2:12 abce rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive ἡμᾶς 1 Here, **us** includes Paul, Titus, and all believers.
2:12 lxb3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns τὴν ἀσέβειαν 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of **godlessness**, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “things that dishonor God”
2:12 n3k5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns τὰς κοσμικὰς ἐπιθυμίας 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of **passions**, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “living for the things of this world” or “persuing sinful pleasures”
2:13 xyz6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys τὴν μακαρίαν ἐλπίδα, καὶ ἐπιφάνειαν τῆς δόξης 1 These two phrases connected with **and** express a single event. The words **blessed hope** describes how Paul feels about the **appearing** of Jesus. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this meaning with an equivalent phrase that does not use **and**. Alternate translation: “the blessing for which we hope, which is the appearing of the glory” or “what we are longing for, the blessed and glorious appearing”
2:13 tpx8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns τὴν μακαρίαν ἐλπίδα, καὶ ἐπιφάνειαν τῆς δόξης 1 If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of **hope** and **glory**, you could express the same ideas in other ways. Alternate translation: “what we are longing for, the blessed and glorious appearing”
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”
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”
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”
2:14 xy20 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive ἡμῶν 1 Here, **us** includes Paul, Titus, and all Christians.
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.
2:14 xy21 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive ἡμᾶς 1 Here, **us** includes Paul, Titus, and all Christians.
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”
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”
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”
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.
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.
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”
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”
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”
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)
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”
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”
3:4 abch rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive ἡμῶν 1 Here, **our** includes Paul, Titus, and all Christians.
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.
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”
3:6 xy24 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive ἡμᾶς 1 Here, **us** includes Paul, Titus, and all Christians.
3:6 xy23 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive ἡμῶν 1 Here, **our** includes Paul, Titus, and all Christians.
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”
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”
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.
3:11 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.
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 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 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”
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”
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”
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.
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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