Titus 3:8-11
The trustworthy message of salvation by grace must be confidently affirmed so that believers devote themselves to good works, while foolish controversies and divisive people are to be rejected for the sake of church health.
8 This saying is faithful, and concerning these things I desire that you affirm confidently, so that those who have believed God may be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable to men;
9 but shun foolish questionings, genealogies, strife, and disputes about the law; for they are unprofitable and vain.
10 Avoid a factious man after a first and second warning,
11 knowing that such a one is perverted and sins, being self-condemned.
The trustworthy message of salvation by grace must be confidently affirmed so that believers devote themselves to good works, while foolish controversies and divisive people are to be rejected for the sake of church health.
To reinforce the practical outcome of salvation—devotion to good works—and to instruct Titus on how to handle fruitless controversies and persistent divisiveness.
The churches in Crete were vulnerable to speculative debates and false teachings, often tied to legalistic traditions or genealogical disputes. Paul instructs Titus to maintain focus on gospel-centered teaching.
Grace That Renews and Produces Gospel-Shaped Good Works
God’s saving mercy renews His people so that they reject divisiveness, live peaceably in the world, and devote themselves to good works that display the gospel.