John Calvin 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)

Remind them to be subject to principalities and powers. From many passages, it is evident that the Apostles had great difficulty in keeping the common people subject to the authority of magistrates and princes. We all by nature desire power, and the consequence is that no one is willingly subject to another.

Besides, perceiving that nearly all the principalities and powers of the world were at that time opposed to Christ, they thought them unworthy of receiving any honor. The Jews especially, being a rebellious people, did not cease to mutiny and rage.

Thus, after having spoken of particular duties, Paul now wishes to give a general admonition to all: to observe peaceably the order of civil government, to submit to the laws, and to obey magistrates. The subjection to princes and obedience to magistrates that he demands extends to edicts, laws, and other parts of civil government.

What he immediately adds, To be ready for every good work, may be applied to the same subject, as if he had said, “All who do not refuse to lead a good and virtuous life will cheerfully yield obedience to magistrates.” For, since magistrates have been appointed for the preservation of mankind, anyone who desires to have them removed, or who shakes off their yoke, is an enemy of equity and justice and is therefore devoid of all humanity. Yet, if any prefer to interpret it without any immediate relation to the context, I have no objection; indeed, there can be no doubt that in this sentence, he recommends to them kind actions towards their neighbors throughout their whole life.