Instruction on Christian behavior in the world: The epistle of Titus as a case study

Introduction

The Epistle of Titus, one of the pastoral epistles in the New Testament, provides a rich source of instruction on Christian behavior, particularly in the context of leadership and community living. Scholars have long examined this epistle to understand the early Christian ethos and its application to contemporary Christian life. According to Knight (1992), the epistle emphasizes the importance of sound doctrine and good works, which are seen as inseparable in the Christian life. This dual focus is evident in Titus 2:7-8, where Paul instructs Titus to “show yourself in all respects to be a model of good works, and in your teaching show integrity, dignity, and sound speech that cannot be condemned.”

The role of elders and leaders in the Christian community is another significant theme in the Epistle of Titus. Mounce (2000) highlights that the qualifications for elders listed in Titus 1:5-9 are not merely administrative but are deeply rooted in moral and ethical behavior. These qualifications include being “above reproach,” “hospitable,” and “self-controlled,” which reflect the broader Christian virtues that Paul advocates. This focus on leadership underscores the idea that the behavior of community leaders sets a standard for the entire congregation, thereby influencing the overall moral fabric of the Christian community.

In addition to leadership, the epistle addresses the behavior of various groups within the Christian community, including older men, older women, younger women, and slaves. Towner (2006) notes that these instructions are tailored to the social roles and expectations of the time but also carry timeless principles of respect, self-control, and integrity. For instance, Titus 2:3-5 advises older women to “teach what is good, and so train the young women to love their husbands and children, to be self-controlled, pure, working at home, kind, and submissive to their own husbands.” This passage reflects the early Christian emphasis on the household as a microcosm of the church.

The epistle also addresses the broader societal context in which Christians live. According to Quinn (1990), Titus 3:1-2 instructs Christians to “be submissive to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good work, to speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and to show perfect courtesy toward all people.” This passage highlights the importance of Christians being exemplary citizens, thereby enhancing the witness of the Christian faith in the wider society. The emphasis on good works and respectful behavior serves as a counterbalance to the often hostile environment in which early Christians found themselves.

Instruction on Christian behavior in the world: The epistle of Titus as a case study