Truth That Leads to Godliness
A Study Guide for Leading with Conviction and Living with Integrity
1. Introduction: Who Was Titus and Why Does This Letter Matter?
Titus was a trusted companion of Paul, sent to the island of Crete to establish order in the local churches.
Crete was known for immorality and false teaching—Paul calls it a place where “liars, evil beasts, and lazy gluttons” were common (Titus 1:12).
The letter emphasizes sound doctrine, godly leadership, and living out the gospel.
Reflection: Right belief must produce right behavior. Christianity isn’t just about what we know—it’s about how we live it out in a broken world.
2. Chapter 1: Appointing Godly Leaders
Paul instructs Titus to appoint elders who are blameless, faithful, self-controlled, and doctrinally sound.
These leaders must rebuke false teaching and protect the flock.
Many in Crete were deceiving others for selfish gain, and Titus was called to correct them boldly.
Takeaway: The health of a church begins with the character of its leaders. Spiritual maturity matters more than charisma.
3. Chapter 2: Teaching Sound Doctrine for All Ages
Paul lays out how different groups should live:
Older men and women: dignity, self-control, reverence.
Young women: love, purity, submission.
Young men: self-control, integrity.
Titus is told to be a model of good works and teach with authority.
“The grace of God… teaches us to say ‘No’ to ungodliness.” (Titus 2:11–12)
Lesson: God’s grace doesn’t just save us—it trains us to live holy lives in a dark world.
4. Chapter 3: Doing Good Because of the Gospel
Christians are to be submissive to rulers, gentle, and ready for good works.
Paul reminds Titus that we were once foolish and disobedient, but God saved us—not because of what we did, but by His mercy (3:5).
Believers must avoid foolish controversies and focus on fruitful living.
Truth: We don’t do good works to be saved—we do them because we are saved.
5. Key Verses to Memorize or Meditate On
Titus 1:16 – “They profess to know God, but they deny him by their works.”
Titus 2:7 – “Show yourself in all respects to be a model of good works…”
Titus 2:11–12 – “The grace of God… trains us to renounce ungodliness…”
Titus 3:5 – “He saved us… by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit.”
Titus 3:8 – “Devote themselves to good works; these things are excellent and profitable…”
6. Questions for Discussion or Journaling
What does Paul’s instruction about elders teach us about spiritual leadership?
How does sound doctrine shape the way we live?
In what ways does God’s grace “train” us to live differently?
How should believers live and speak in a culture filled with false messages and conflict?
What’s the difference between doing good to earn God’s favor vs. doing good in response to His grace?
What area of your life needs more alignment between belief and behavior?