The Book of Titus is one of three "pastoral letters" in the New Testament: 1 & 2 Timothy and Titus. The writer identifies himself as Paul (Titus 1:1). He writes to "Titus, my true son", (Titus 1:4). The letter was most likely written soon after Paul's release from house arrest in Rome ca. A.D 62 or 63 (Acts 28).
Paul sent Titus to the Island of Crete in the Mediterranean Sea located just below both present day Greece and Turkey to give spiritual direction to a troubled church. There were false teachers in this church that needed to be dealt with. As the mentor of Titus, Paul gave instructions both theological and practical to guide the leadership of Titus in this sensitive mission. Those instructions are valid for our times as well.
Titus, as a pastor, and the people of the church at Crete must model healthy Christian living - men and women, young and old, and even the slaves at that time. Important characteristics of the Christian life are given.
This paragraph of Scripture is the theological heart of the book of Titus. Paul's understanding of salvation revolves around the concept and reality of God's grace in Christ Jesus. Here we are told what God's grace does for us in our salvation experience.
"Do what is good!" Paul names actions that are good behaviors of those who are believers in Christ. He also indicates things to embrace and things to avoid. Finding Jesus as Savior and Lord in our lives really does make a difference - a big difference.
As Titus was sent on a spiritual mission to the Island of Crete, he received a letter from Paul, his spiritual mentor. It is good to know that one has the prayers and backing of leadership, when one attempts to minister.
The work of the pastor is not easy. That work is not just appearing behind the pulpit once a week in a serene atmosphere. It also involves dealing with difficult people. It is no fun dealing with false teaching and wrong behavior in a congregation. But, this is what a pastor must often do.
Paul gives Titus instructions as to what qualities should grace the life of a pastor in Crete - and where you live as well.