5th Pass

Titus must ensure the people understand the glorious gospel and the hope of eternal life, and how it should impact their attitudes (e.g. compassion, courtesy) and behaviour (e.g. eager for good deeds). These things are excellent and profitable for people ( Titus 3:8 ). By contrast, Paul warns Titus of some real (worthless) time wasters that he and the people should avoid. The gospel is trustworthy and true - invest the time to understand it aright (and help your people do likewise!). Stay clear of the multitude of distractions that will waste your time. And when you will find people who stir up division within the church, deal with it. Be open and swiftly - they also must not become a distraction from the glorious gospel. A person who is agitating for division needs to be warned - maybe their actions are misunderstood - and if it continues they must be warned again. If it still continues, have nothing to do with them. In dealing with this person, all that has been previously said remains true - humility, courtesy, compassion - but no compromise, and no distractions from the glorious gospel. Observation: these two short verses amplify the importance of keeping the gospel centre stage. And of dealing squarely with the divisive person.

notes

Phrase

editing

NT

Titus 3:9-11

esv

But avoid foolish controversies,

genealogies,

dissensions,

and quarrels

about the law,

Distinction

for they are unprofitable

Ground

and worthless.

As for a person

Condition

who stirs up division,

after warning him once

and then twice,

have nothing more to do

with him,

Accompaniment

knowing

that such a person is warped

Content

and sinful;

he is self- condemned.

Result

The Condition that must be true for anchor phrase to be in effect is that the person who stirs up division must be warned once, and then again. This two-part warning suggests that there is an observation period after the first and second warning.

phrasing