Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good, to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and always to be gentle toward everyone.
- Titus 3:1-2
The Christian life is not lived in a vacuum. We live in neighborhoods, communities, cities, and nations. We deal with employers, teachers, police officers, elected officials, and people of every sort – some kind, some harsh, some supportive, and others hostile to our faith. The gospel calls us not just to believe in Christ but to embody His grace in how we relate to the world around us.
In this passage, the apostle Paul addresses how believers should live in society, especially within a culture that is often opposed to their faith. His words to Titus remind us that the gospel is not only about personal salvation but also about public witness. The church must live in such a way that Christ’s beauty and truth shine through.
Paul begins by telling Titus to remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities (verse 1). This would not have been an easy command for the believers in Crete. They were under Roman rule, and Roman authorities were often unjust, corrupt, or indifferent to the Christian faith. Yet Paul insists that submission, not rebellion, should mark believers’ posture toward governing powers. This echoes Romans 13:1-7, where Paul writes that every authority has been established by God. Submission does not mean blind obedience to evil, but it does mean respecting the role of government in maintaining order and justice.
In today’s polarized climate, Christians often struggle with how to relate to political leaders. Some are tempted to idolize their preferred leaders, while others fall into constant criticism and hostility. But Paul’s words to Titus call us to a posture of respect and prayer, even when we disagree. We must remember that government is not ultimate; Christ is. But God has appointed authorities for the common good, and our submission reflects our trust in Him.
Paul then expands this idea of submission by commanding obedience (verse 1). Obedience includes respecting laws, paying taxes, following regulations, and honoring societal order, unless such commands directly contradict God’s Word. For followers of Christ, obedience reflects integrity. Christians should not be known for cutting corners, cheating systems, or disregarding rules. By obeying, we demonstrate that we are trustworthy citizens who contribute to the common good. Disobedience for selfish reasons damages our witness.
Submission and obedience could be seen as passive, but Paul adds an active call: be ready to do good (verse 1). Believers are not just rule-followers; they are to be proactive agents of blessing. We should always be looking for opportunities to serve, help, and build up others. Whether that is volunteering at a church or community organization that serves the less fortunate, tutoring children, or caring for an elderly friend, there are many opportunities to live out this command to do good.
Next, Paul warns believers not to slander (verse 2). This means not to speak evil of others, not to spread lies, and not to attack people’s character unfairly. This was especially relevant in Crete, where harsh speech and quarrelsome behavior were common. But this command also directly applies in our digital age. Social media has made slander more widespread than ever. Christians can easily fall into mocking political opponents, spreading unverified claims, or attacking others online in the name of truth. But Paul says, “Do not slander anyone.” No exceptions. This doesn’t mean we avoid speaking truth, especially against injustice. But it does mean truth must be spoken with grace and fairness. Christ is honored when Christians show restraint and speak truth with humility.
Paul then calls believers to be peaceable (not quarrelsome) and considerate (verse 2). This means not looking for fights, not stirring division, and showing empathy toward others. This challenges the Church’s tendency toward division and factions. Many Christians today are quick to divide over secondary issues, to argue harshly, or to treat others with contempt. Instead, Paul calls us to seek peace, practice empathy, and model unity. Imagine the witness of a Church marked not by division but by gentleness and consideration toward others, even toward those outside the faith.
Finally, Paul instructs believers to show gentleness toward everyone (verse 2). Gentleness is not weakness but strength under control, modeled perfectly by Jesus. Notice that Paul says “everyone,” not just fellow believers, not just those who are kind to us, but even toward opponents. Followers of Christ should be known for gentleness in all our relationships, especially with opponents, with those who are vulnerable, and with one another. Gentleness is desperately needed in today’s harsh, confrontational culture. When Christians show gentleness, they stand out as lights in the darkness.
This passage is not simply a list of moral commands; it is a strategy for gospel witness. How we live toward society and those around us reflects the gospel we believe. Submission shows that we trust God’s sovereignty. Obedience shows integrity. Doing good shows Christ’s compassion. Avoiding slander shows Christ’s truthfulness. Peace, consideration, and gentleness show Christ’s character. If we as the Church live this way, then we not only glorify God, but the world gets to see a glimpse of God’s Kingdom.
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