Learn more about Titus

Introduction to Titus

Titus is a significant figure in the New Testament, known for his close association with the Apostle Paul. A Gentile convert to Christianity, Titus became a trusted co-worker and emissary in Paul’s missionary journeys and epistolary communications. He played a pivotal role in organizing early church communities, mediating conflicts, and serving as a living example of the inclusivity of the Gospel message. He is also the recipient of the Epistle to Titus, one of the three Pastoral Epistles in the New Testament.

Titus Pronunciation

“Titus” is pronounced as TY-tuhs, with the emphasis on the first syllable.

Titus in the Bible

Titus is mentioned multiple times throughout the New Testament, primarily in Paul’s letters. He is not named in the Book of Acts, but much of his activity is inferred from Paul’s epistles:

• Galatians 2:1-3: Paul refers to bringing Titus to Jerusalem, where he was a test case for the acceptance of Gentiles into the Christian faith without requiring circumcision. This was a major moment in affirming the doctrine of salvation by grace through faith.
• 2 Corinthians 2:13; 7:6, 13-14; 8:6, 16, 23; 12:18: Titus served as Paul’s emissary to the Corinthian church during a time of tension. He helped carry Paul’s letters, facilitated reconciliation, and oversaw the collection for the poor saints in Jerusalem.
• Titus 1:4: Paul addresses him as “my true child in a common faith,” highlighting the deep spiritual bond between them. This verse opens the Epistle to Titus, where Paul instructs him on organizing church leadership and promoting sound doctrine in Crete.
• 2 Timothy 4:10: Paul notes that Titus had gone to Dalmatia, likely for ministry purposes.

Titus in Biblical History and Context

Titus stands out as a Gentile who rose to a position of significant leadership in the early Christian church. His presence at the Jerusalem Council (Galatians 2) reinforced the principle that Gentile believers were not bound to the ceremonial aspects of the Mosaic Law. His trustworthy character allowed Paul to entrust him with delicate missions, including conflict resolution and financial stewardship.

The Epistle to Titus reveals his role in organizing the church in Crete. Paul instructs him to appoint elders, refute false teachers, and uphold the integrity of Christian conduct. This letter, like 1 and 2 Timothy, reflects the challenges of church leadership in a pagan culture and the need for strong pastoral guidance.

Related Themes and Meanings to Titus

• Church Leadership: Titus is portrayed as a model leader who is to appoint others capable of upholding Christian doctrine and behavior (Titus 1:5-9).
• Grace and Good Works: The Epistle to Titus emphasizes the balance of grace-based salvation and the necessity of living a godly life (Titus 2:11-14; 3:4-8).
• Unity of Jews and Gentiles: Titus exemplifies the inclusion of Gentiles in the church, affirming the Gospel's reach beyond Jewish boundaries (Galatians 2:3).

Trivia and Interesting Facts about Titus

• Though Titus is never mentioned in the Book of Acts, his influence and activity are woven deeply into Paul’s letters, especially 2 Corinthians and the Epistle to Titus.
• Church tradition holds that Titus eventually became the bishop of Crete and died there at an advanced age.
• The Epistle to Titus is part of the “Pastoral Epistles,” offering early blueprints for Christian ministry and church governance.
• Titus’s refusal to be circumcised in Galatians 2 is often highlighted in theological discussions about freedom in Christ and the non-requirement of the Mosaic Law for salvation.
• His Greek background provided an essential bridge between Jewish Christian leaders like Paul and the growing Gentile church.