1 Pvt them in remembrance that they bee subiect to the Principalities and powers, and that they bee obedient, and ready to euery good woorke, 2 That they speake euill of no man, that they be no fighters, but soft, shewing all meekenesse vnto all men. 3 For wee our selues also were in times past vnwise, disobedient, deceiued, seruing the lustes and diuers pleasures, liuing in maliciousnes and enuie, hatefull, and hating one another: 4 But when that bountifulnesse and that loue of God our Sauiour toward man appeared, 5 Not by the woorkes of righteousnesse, which we had done, but according to his mercie he saued vs, by the washing of the newe birth, and the renewing of the holy Ghost, 6 Which he shed on vs aboundantly, through Iesus Christ our Sauiour, 7 That we, being iustified by his grace, should be made heires according to the hope of eternall life. 8 This is a true saying, and these thinges I will thou shouldest affirme, that they which haue beleeued God, might be carefull to shewe foorth good woorkes. These things are good and profitable vnto men. 9 But stay foolish questions, and genealogies, and contentions, and brawlings about the Lawe: for they are vnprofitable and vaine. 10 Reiect him that is an heretike, after once or twise admonition, 11 Knowing that hee that is such, is peruerted, and sinneth, being damned of his owne selfe. 12 When I shall send Artemas vnto thee, or Tychicus, be diligent to come to mee vnto Nicopolis: for I haue determined there to winter. 13 Bring Zenas the expounder of the Lawe, and Apollos on their iourney diligently, that they lacke nothing. 14 And let ours also learne to shewe foorth good woorkes for necessary vses, that they be not vnfruitfull. 15 All that are with mee, salute thee. Greete them that loue vs in the faith. Grace bee with you all, Amen. ‘To Titus, elect the first bishoppe of the Church of the Cretians, written from Nicopolis in Macedonia.’
Doing Helpful Things
1 Remind your people to obey the rulers and authorities and not to be rebellious. They must always be ready to do something helpful 2 and not say cruel things or argue. They should be gentle and kind to everyone. 3 We used to be stupid, disobedient, and foolish, as well as slaves of all sorts of desires and pleasures. We were evil and jealous. Everyone hated us, and we hated everyone.
4 God our Savior showed us
how good and kind he is.
5 He saved us because
of his mercy,
and not because
of any good things
we have done.
God washed us by the power
of the Holy Spirit.
He gave us new birth
and a fresh beginning.
6 God sent Jesus Christ
our Savior
to give us his Spirit.
7 Jesus treated us much better
than we deserve.
He made us acceptable to God
and gave us the hope
of eternal life.
8 This message is certainly true.
These teachings are useful and helpful for everyone. I want you to insist that the people follow them, so that all who have faith in God will be sure to do good deeds. 9 But don't have anything to do with stupid arguments about ancestors. And stay away from disagreements and quarrels about the Law of Moses. Such arguments are useless and senseless.
10 Warn troublemakers once or twice. Then don't have anything else to do with them. 11 You know their minds are twisted, and their own sins show how guilty they are.
Personal Instructions and Greetings
12 I plan to send Artemas or Tychicus to you. After he arrives, please try your best to meet me at Nicopolis. I have decided to spend the winter there.
13 When Zenas the lawyer and Apollos get ready to leave, help them as much as you can, so they won't have need of anything.
14 Our people should learn to spend their time doing something useful and worthwhile.
15 Greetings to you from everyone here. Greet all of our friends who share in our faith.
I pray that the Lord will be kind to all of you!