Titus 2:15
These things speak, and exhort, and rebuke with all authority. Let no man despise thee.
Titus 2:15 (KJV)
Context
The Apostle Paul wrote the book of Titus to guide a young church leader whom he had left in Crete to establish order and sound teaching in the churches there. In chapter 2, Paul addresses older men, older women, younger women, and younger men, giving instructions on godly living, self-control, reverence, love, and good works. This verse concludes that chapter and serves as a commission, summing up the instructions that have gone before.
Meaning
“These things” points back to the whole body of instruction in the chapter. Paul does not want Titus merely to know these truths; he must actively communicate them. The three verbs describe a complete ministry of the Word. To “speak” is to declare the truths of the faith clearly and faithfully. To “exhort” is to encourage and urge believers to live out these teachings and to be zealous for good works. To “rebuke” is to correct those who stray from sound doctrine or fall into sin.
This ministry is to be carried out “with all authority.” The Greek word used here, epitage, means a command or authoritative instruction. This is not personal authority arising from Titus’s own character or position. It is authority that comes from the divine commission and from the truth of the message itself. Titus speaks as one sent by God, and the authority belongs to the Word he proclaims.
“Let no man despise thee” is a charge to Titus to conduct his ministry in such a way that his youthfulness or conduct would not cause his message to be disregarded. He is to live in a manner consistent with the doctrine he teaches, so that his authority is not undermined. Sound doctrine must be accompanied by practical living, and the authority to teach and correct is rooted in the truth of God’s Word, not in human personality.
Application
Those who teach God’s Word today share in this same commission. Speaking, encouraging, and correcting belong together; none can be neglected. The authority for such ministry does not rest in the teacher’s personality but in the truth of Scripture. Faithful living protects the message from being despised, and faithful teaching builds up the church in sound doctrine and good works.
Reflection
Paul’s charge to Titus reminds every believer that knowing sound doctrine carries a responsibility to share it. The verse calls for courage to speak truth, compassion to encourage growth, and faithfulness to live in a way that honors the message.
