Albert Barnes Commentary Titus 3:1

"Put them in mind to be in subjection to rulers, to authorities, to be obedient, to be ready unto every good work," — Titus 3:1 (ASV)

Titus Chapter 3

Analysis of the Chapter.

This chapter comprises the following subjects:

1. Titus was to instruct his hearers to be subject to lawful authority, and in general to manifest meekness and gentleness towards all classes of men (Titus 3:1–2).
2. A reason is assigned why they should do this (Titus 3:3–8). They who were Christians were once, indeed, like others, disobedient and unholy; they were regardless of law, and gave free indulgence to their evil propensities, but they had been redeemed for a better purpose, and it was the design of God in redeeming them, that they should manifest every kind of virtue.
3. Titus was to avoid foolish questions, contentions, and strifes about the law (Titus 3:9).
4. He who was a heretic was to be rejected after suitable admonitions (Titus 3:10–11).
5. Paul directs Titus to come to him at Nicopolis, and to bring Zenas and Apollos with him (Titus 3:12–14).
6. He closes with the customary salutations (Titus 3:15).

Put them in mind to be subject, etc. See the duty enjoined here, explained in the notes on Romans 13:1 and following.

Principalities and powers. See these words explained in the notes on Romans 8:38.

The word here translated powers, (exousiaiv), is not, indeed, the same as that which is found there, (dunameiv), but the same idea is conveyed. Compare with the notes on Ephesians 1:21.

To obey magistrates. That is, to obey them in all that was not contrary to the word of God. See the notes on Romans 13:1 and following, and Acts 4:19-20.

To be ready to every good work. To be prepared for (etoimouv); prompt to perform all that is good. See the notes on Philippians 4:8.

A Christian should be always ready to do good as far as he is able. He should not need to be urged, or coaxed, or persuaded, but should be so ready always to do good that he will count it a privilege to have the opportunity to do it.