Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary Titus 1:9

"holding to the faithful word which is according to the teaching, that he may be able to exhort in the sound doctrine, and to convict the gainsayers." — Titus 1:9 (ASV)

Doctrinal fitness is also necessary. The overseer must be known to “hold firmly to the trustworthy message,” clinging to it despite the winds of false teaching and open opposition. “Trustworthy” (GK 4412) underlines that the Christian Gospel is perfectly reliable and completely worthy of one’s confidence. Overseers must adhere to the Word “as it has been taught” and be in accord with the teaching of the apostles.

Unfaithfulness to the biblical revelation disqualifies people from leadership in God’s church. On the other hand, doctrinal fidelity enables them to perform a twofold task: (1) They can appeal to others to adhere to and advance in their Christian faith. This can be done by proclaiming “sound doctrine”—teaching that is biblically correct and promotes spiritual health—in contrast to the unhealthy false teaching. (2) Their work also demands that they “refute those who oppose” the true Gospel and speak against it as the advocates of error. They must expose the errors of others and try to convince them that they are wrong.