Titus 1:2
Verse
Context
Paul’s Greeting to Titus
1Paul, a servant of God and an apostle of Jesus Christ for the faith of God’s elect and their knowledge of the truth that leads to godliness, 2in the hope of eternal life, which God, who cannot lie, promised before time began.3In His own time He has made His word evident in the proclamation entrusted to me by the command of God our Savior.
Sermons





Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
In hope of eternal life - In expectation of a state of being and well being which should last through eternity, when time should be no more. This includes, not only the salvation of the soul and its eternal beatification, but also the resurrection of the body. This was a point but ill understood, and not very clearly revealed, under the Mosaic law; but it was fully revealed under the Gospel, and the doctrine illustrated by the resurrection and ascension of Christ. Which God, that cannot lie, promised - We have often seen that the phrase, the foundation of the world, means the Jewish economy, and, before the foundation of the world, the times antecedent to the giving of the law. This is evidently the meaning here. See Ti2 1:9-11. Supposing the word αιωνιων in this verse to signify eternal, says Dr. Macknight, the literal translation of προ χρονων αιωνιων would be, before eternal times; but that being a contradiction in terms, our translators, contrary to the propriety of the Greek language, have rendered it before the world began, as Mr. Locke observes on Rom 16:25. The true literal translation is before the secular times, referring us to the Jewish jubilees, by which times were computed among the Hebrews, as among the Gentiles they were computed by generations of men. Hence, Col 1:26, The mystery which was kept hid απο των αιωνων και απο των γενεων, from the ages and from the generations, signifies the mystery which was kept hid from the Jews and from the Gentiles.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
In hope of eternal life--connected with the whole preceding sentence. That whereon rests my aim as an apostle to promote the elect's faith and full knowledge of the truth, is, "the hope of eternal life" (Tit 2:13; Tit 3:7; Act 23:6; Act 24:15; Act 28:20). that cannot lie-- (Rom 3:4; Rom 11:29; Heb 6:18). promised before the world began--a contracted expression for "purposed before the world began (literally, 'before the ages of time'), and promised actually in time," the promise springing from the eternal purpose; as in Ti2 1:9, the gift of grace was the result of the eternal purpose "before the world began."
John Gill Bible Commentary
In hope of eternal life,.... Or "for the hope of eternal life"; in order to bring souls to the hope of it. This is another end of the Gospel ministry, as to bring God's elect to faith in Christ, and to the knowledge and acknowledgement of the truth, as it is in Jesus, so to the hope of eternal glory and happiness: in a state of nature, they are without the grace of hope, or any true ground and foundation of it; and though it is the gift of God's grace, and is implanted on the soul by the Spirit of God in regeneration; yet the Gospel is the means of producing it at first, as well as afterwards encouraging and increasing it; for in it, Christ the foundation of hope is proposed, and set forth before awakened and convinced sinners: the object of this hope is "eternal life"; not anything now seen and enjoyed, for that is not hope; not anything in this present life, but something future; a life of perfect bliss and happiness with Christ to all eternity; which is a hope laid up in heaven, an inheritance reserved there; a life which is secured in the hands of Christ, which he has a power to give, and does give to all his sheep, and is the gift of God through him: and of which it is further said, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began; eternal life is a "promise", and so of free grace, and not by the works of the law, which is inconsistent with a promise: it is the promise of God, who is faithful to his word, and "can not lie"; being the God of truth, that can neither deceive, nor be deceived: this does not contradict his omnipotence, but argues the perfection of his nature, which cannot admit of anything that implies weakness and mutation: and this promise was made before the world was, as early as the choice of God's elect in Christ, and the gift of grace to them in him; as early as the covenant was made with him, and he was set up as the Mediator of it; who was present to receive this promise as their head and representative for them, and to whom it was made as federally considered in him, and in whom it was secured for them; see Ti2 1:1.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:2 The confidence that they have eternal life enables God’s people to live in the present in light of the future (see 2:11-14; 3:7-8). • God—who does not lie: The true God contrasts with popular Cretan conceptions (see study note on 1:12). This statement also underlines God’s plan of salvation as unchanging (1:1): God can be trusted to fulfill his promises (see Num 23:19; 1 Sam 15:29; Rom 3:3-4).
Titus 1:2
Paul’s Greeting to Titus
1Paul, a servant of God and an apostle of Jesus Christ for the faith of God’s elect and their knowledge of the truth that leads to godliness, 2in the hope of eternal life, which God, who cannot lie, promised before time began.3In His own time He has made His word evident in the proclamation entrusted to me by the command of God our Savior.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
The Meaning of Life - 1. God Only
By Norman Grubb6.6K53:51Meaning Of LifeMAT 6:33JHN 3:2EPH 1:18EPH 3:19TIT 1:2HEB 6:18In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of understanding the foundation of the universe, which is built on love. He emphasizes that God is a God of love and that the entire universe is designed to be in harmony and balance. The speaker also highlights the self-giving nature of the universe, as seen in nature and the world around us. He explains that as individuals, we have the ability to choose and that our choices determine our identity as children of God.
(Titus - Part 4): In Hope of Eternal Life Ii
By A.W. Tozer3.9K33:24TitusPSA 121:4ISA 40:28ISA 53:12MAL 3:6LUK 1:372TI 2:13TIT 1:2In this sermon, the preacher begins by emphasizing the importance of family night and invites everyone to attend. He then focuses on a passage from the book of Titus, where Paul declares himself as a servant of God and apostle. The preacher highlights the significance of the phrase "in hope of eternal life" and discusses the trustworthiness of God's promises. He also mentions the struggle to believe in these promises and encourages the congregation to have faith. The sermon includes references to various biblical figures and teachings, such as John Flavill's sermon on Isaiah 53:12 and the concept of a covenant between God the Father and Jesus Christ.
(Titus - Part 5): His Word Manifested Through Preaching
By A.W. Tozer3.9K37:12TitusEZK 2:7MAT 6:33JHN 3:16JHN 8:24ACT 8:42CO 5:10TIT 1:2In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the imperfection of preaching due to the involvement of language. He explains that language is fluid and can have different meanings in different places, making it an imperfect medium for conveying God's message. However, despite its imperfections, preaching is a powerful tool because it is the means through which God chooses to make His plan known. The preacher highlights the weight and seriousness of the message carried by even the simplest preacher, as it holds the future of millions of moral beings in its hands.
Christ in Us - Part 1
By Norman Grubb2.0K48:27GEN 1:26JHN 8:12JHN 15:51CO 3:16EPH 2:10COL 1:27TIT 1:2HEB 6:18HEB 12:291JN 1:5This sermon delves into the concept of God's nature as a person of love and light, emphasizing the transformation from being self-focused to becoming a vessel for God's love and blessings. It explores the idea of God as a consuming fire that turns into light, symbolizing the shift from self-centeredness to selflessness. The speaker reflects on the importance of being a complete vessel for God to dwell in, acknowledging the need for personal transformation to align with God's character of love and truth.
The Sure Word of God
By Chuck Smith1.6K34:30Word Of GodNUM 23:19PSA 33:6ISA 40:8MAT 24:35TIT 1:2In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the certainty and fulfillment of God's promises. He uses the example of God's judgment upon Jerusalem to illustrate this point. The preacher highlights that God's pronouncement of judgment is accompanied by a threefold confirmation: "I have spoken it. It shall come to pass. I will do it." He emphasizes that God does not change His mind or spare those who deserve judgment. The preacher also emphasizes the importance of choosing the right path in life, one that leads to everlasting life rather than shame and contempt. He warns against the danger of a comfortable gospel and encourages listeners to put their faith and trust in God's sure word. The sermon concludes with a blessing and a prayer for God's guidance and peace.
The Persistent Love of God
By Hoseah Wu1.3K1:01:13Love Of GodGEN 1:1GEN 13:17MAT 6:33JHN 1:352TI 1:12TI 1:9TIT 1:2In this sermon, Garag Kong emphasizes the importance of consecration in the Christian life. He shares three messages on consecration: the call to consecration, the vision of consecration, and the life of consecration. He explains that without consecration, we have not truly begun our Christian journey and that consecration is not just about dedicating our talents to God's work, but about allowing God to work in us. The sermon also highlights the transformative power of being with Jesus and the lasting impression it leaves on people.
Ephesians 1 - Pauls Prayer - Part 6
By Gareth Evans1.1K04:59PSA 71:5ROM 15:131CO 13:13COL 1:27TIT 1:2HEB 6:19HEB 10:231PE 1:3This sermon emphasizes the importance of understanding Christian hope, which is not based on uncertainty but on eager expectation and assurance in God's promises. The speaker contrasts worldly hope, which carries negative possibilities, with the hope of the Christian, rooted in the unchanging and absolute nature of God's faithfulness. Christian hope is described as a confident belief in the promises of God, such as the forgiveness of sins, the return of Jesus, and eternal life.
One Good Prophet, One Bad Prophet, and One Ugly but Seriously Important Lesson
By Brent Barnett01KI 13:11KI 15:22ACT 5:12CO 5:10GAL 1:8TIT 1:2JAS 3:12PE 1:3Brent Barnett delves into the intriguing yet crucial story of the unnamed 'man of God' in 1 Kings 13, who boldly confronts King Jeroboam about idol worship, obeys God's commands, but tragically falls into deception by listening to a lying old prophet. This narrative emphasizes the unwavering nature of God's Word, the danger of deception even for the most devoted followers, and the severe consequences of disobedience, highlighting that disobedience is as serious as witchcraft and idolatry in God's eyes.
The Prayer of Faith
By Charles E. Cowman0PSA 23:4PRO 3:52CO 1:20TIT 1:2HEB 11:1Charles E. Cowman emphasizes the power of faith in claiming God's promises, transforming them from mere promises to prophecies that must come to pass because God cannot lie. He highlights the importance of shifting from faith to sight, trusting in God's goodness and sovereignty rather than our own understanding. Faith, to Cowman, is about walking in darkness with God, seeking His will and relying on Him to strengthen our faith.
The True God and Eternal Life"
By H.J. Vine0JHN 3:36JHN 6:51JHN 14:6JHN 17:3ACT 3:151CO 2:14TIT 1:21JN 2:231JN 5:121JN 5:20H.J. Vine preaches about the profound subjects of 'The true God' and 'Eternal life,' emphasizing that man's intellectual efforts are insufficient to fully understand them due to sin. He highlights that the only way to know these important matters is through God's revelation, not human attainment, and that salvation, forgiveness, and the gift of the Spirit enable us to grasp God's wisdom and grace. Vine underscores that the Son of God, Jesus Christ, is the key to knowing the true God and eternal life, and that through Him, believers have the high privilege of knowing the Father.
Of the Part Which the Father Takes in the Covenant.
By John Gill0The Role of the Father in SalvationCovenant TheologyISA 49:6JER 31:34JHN 10:28JHN 17:12ROM 8:32CO 5:18EPH 1:4TIT 1:2HEB 10:5HEB 13:20John Gill expounds on the role of God the Father in the covenant of grace, emphasizing that He initiates and prescribes the terms of the covenant, including the sending of Christ as the mediator. The Father not only proposes the work of redemption but also ensures the safety and preservation of the elect, promising them salvation through Christ's obedience and sacrifice. Gill highlights the Father's authority in the covenant, detailing the responsibilities assigned to Christ, including His incarnation, obedience to the law, and atonement for sin. The sermon underscores the promises made to both Christ and the elect, illustrating the depth of God's commitment to His covenant people. Ultimately, Gill affirms that the covenant secures eternal life and grace for those chosen by God.
Of the Grace of Hope.
By John Gill0GraceHopePSA 42:11PSA 130:7PRO 14:32JER 17:7ACT 4:12ROM 15:131TH 5:8TIT 1:2HEB 11:11PE 1:3John Gill emphasizes the significance of the grace of hope in the Christian faith, explaining that hope is rooted in God and is essential for believers. He outlines that true hope is not based on human merit or external circumstances but is founded on God's promises and the work of Christ. Gill highlights that hope is a living and good hope, which sustains believers through trials and leads them to eternal life. He encourages the faithful to anchor their hope in God, who is the source of all grace and mercy, and to trust in the promises of salvation through Jesus Christ. Ultimately, hope serves as a powerful motivator for believers to persevere in their faith.
God Is Honest
By Allan Halton0GEN 32:10PSA 27:8HAB 1:2ACT 26:192CO 3:18EPH 4:22PHP 4:6TIT 1:2HEB 4:10HEB 6:18Allan Halton reflects on a profound experience in prayer where he encountered the sincere, faithful, and honest nature of God, realizing the depth of God's truthfulness beyond words. Through Bible verses like Hebrews 6:18 and Titus 1:2, he explores the impossibility of God lying and the human struggle to trust in God's promises. This encounter stirs a longing to see God's beauty, a desire for character transformation, and a personal commitment to trust in God's faithfulness despite doubts and fears.
No Hope
By R.A. Torrey0The Consequences of UnbeliefHope in ChristPSA 14:1JHN 3:36ROM 8:28ROM 8:32EPH 2:12PHP 4:191TH 4:13TIT 1:2HEB 10:261PE 1:4R.A. Torrey emphasizes the dire state of those who are without Christ, focusing on the phrase 'having no hope' from Ephesians 2:12. He illustrates the despair of living without hope through various scenarios, explaining that true hope is rooted in the existence of a loving God, the truth of the Bible, and personal acceptance of Christ as Savior. Torrey warns that those who deny these truths face a bleak future both in this life and the next, while believers in Christ possess a profound hope for both present and eternal life. Ultimately, he challenges the audience to choose between the hopelessness of a life without Christ and the glorious hope found in Him.
What It Costs Not to Be a Christian?
By R.A. Torrey0The Importance of FaithCost Of DiscipleshipPSA 119:59ISA 53:6MAT 10:32JHN 3:14JHN 3:36ROM 5:1ROM 10:10TIT 1:21PE 1:8R.A. Torrey emphasizes the grave costs of living without Christ, urging listeners to reflect on the sacrifices made by rejecting faith. He outlines that a Christless life leads to the loss of peace, joy, hope, true manhood and womanhood, God's favor, and ultimately eternal life. Torrey challenges the audience to consider whether they are willing to pay such a high price for a life devoid of Christ, encouraging them to make a decisive choice for faith. He stresses that true Christianity requires a commitment that may involve sacrifices but offers immeasurable rewards in return.
The Son and Life, and Word and Wisdom
By H.J. Vine0PRO 8:35JHN 1:4JHN 3:36JHN 5:26ACT 3:15ACT 13:46ROM 5:21TIT 1:21JN 2:241JN 5:12H.J. Vine preaches on the profound truth that eternal life is found in believing in the Son, a truth revealed by the Holy Spirit and declared in the Word of God. This eternal life, promised before time began, is a gift from God through His Son, Jesus Christ, who brought life to a world of death. Those who have the Son have life eternal, a present possession connected vitally with the Father and the Son, a promise to believers that will be fully realized in the coming glory.
Promise of Life Titus 1
By John Nelson Darby0Identity in ChristEternal LifeTIT 1:2John Nelson Darby emphasizes the promise of eternal life that God had in mind for humanity before the foundation of the world, highlighting that this life is embodied in Christ. He explains how, despite the corruption and evil that has entered the world, the divine life is communicated to believers through the preached word of truth. Darby stresses the importance of understanding our identity in Christ and living out this eternal life, which is characterized by godliness and a relationship with God. He encourages believers to recognize their position in Christ and to manifest this life in a world that has turned away from God. Ultimately, he calls for a deeper understanding of the eternal life promised to us, which is now revealed through Jesus Christ.
Four Things Which God Cannot Do
By Thomas Brooks0God's HolinessThe Nature of SinPSA 5:4ISA 59:2HAB 1:13ROM 3:232TI 2:13TIT 1:2HEB 6:18JAS 1:131JN 1:5REV 21:8Thomas Brooks emphasizes the immutable nature of God by outlining four things that God cannot do: He cannot lie, die, deny Himself, or look favorably upon iniquity. This sermon highlights God's infinite purity and righteousness, illustrating that His gaze upon sin is filled with hatred, anger, and vengeance. Brooks encourages believers to understand the seriousness of sin in the eyes of a holy God, reminding them of the importance of living a life that reflects God's purity.
The Unsearchable Riches
By T. Austin-Sparks0Revelation of ChristFull KnowledgeJHN 17:3ROM 8:282CO 12:2EPH 1:4EPH 1:17PHP 1:9COL 1:9TIT 1:2HEB 1:21JN 2:27T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the significance of 'full knowledge' in understanding the unsearchable riches of Christ, highlighting that this knowledge is not merely intellectual but a revelation from the Holy Spirit. He explains that the prefix 'epi' in the Greek signifies a deeper, mature understanding of God, which Paul prays for in his letters. Sparks outlines the major eras of God's revelation, from before time to the consummation of the age, and stresses the centrality of Christ in God's eternal purpose. He asserts that true knowledge of God is rooted in the eternal counsels of the Godhead, where the Son was appointed as the sphere of all that belongs to God. Ultimately, the sermon calls believers to seek a deeper, Spirit-led understanding of their faith.
The Divine Rememberer
By A.W. Pink0God's FaithfulnessDivine RemembranceGEN 8:1GEN 9:16GEN 19:29EXO 2:24PSA 40:2PSA 136:23ISA 41:10JER 30:7EPH 1:4TIT 1:2A.W. Pink emphasizes God's unwavering memory and faithfulness towards humanity, contrasting it with our tendency to forget Him. He reflects on the biblical instances where God remembered His people in their low estate, particularly the Israelites in Egypt, and how this theme extends to all believers today. Pink reassures that even in our darkest moments, God remains the faithful Rememberer, providing grace and support throughout our lives. He encourages believers to recognize God's covenant promises and His continual presence, especially during trials and tribulations. Ultimately, Pink calls for gratitude towards God for His enduring mercy and faithfulness, which will be fully realized in eternity.
1 John 2:25
By John Gill0The Promise of GodEternal LifeJHN 3:16JHN 5:24JHN 17:3ROM 6:23EPH 2:8TIT 1:2HEB 10:232PE 3:91JN 2:251JN 5:11John Gill emphasizes the promise of eternal life as a fundamental aspect of the Gospel, highlighting that this promise originates from God the Father and is affirmed by Jesus Christ. He explains that this promise is secure and rests in the covenant of grace made before the world began, and it is essential for believers to hold firmly to this doctrine. The sermon underscores the importance of knowing and enjoying a relationship with both the Father and the Son, as this knowledge is integral to experiencing eternal life.
The Danger of World-Worship
By A.W. Tozer0TIT 1:2The preacher delves into the concept of being a liar, emphasizing how speaking falsehood and attempting to deceive makes one unfaithful and breaks trust. Various Bible verses highlight the consequences of lying, such as being associated with the devil, denying Christ, and lacking love for others. The sermon underscores the importance of God's truthfulness, even if all mankind were to declare Him unfaithful, and how every man would be proven a liar in comparison. Through examples like David's confession in Psalms, the sermon explores the depth of sin against God and the justification of His judgments.
Of the Veracity of God.
By John Gill0God's TruthFaithfulness of GodNUM 23:19PSA 19:9PSA 100:5JER 18:7JHN 17:3ROM 3:4EPH 1:13TIT 1:2HEB 11:61JN 5:20John Gill emphasizes the veracity of God, asserting that God is true in His essence, works, and words. He explains that God's truth is intrinsic to His nature, distinguishing Him from fallible humans and false deities. Gill highlights that God's truth is eternal, immutable, and the foundation of His faithfulness, which is evident in His promises and actions throughout history. He also notes that God's truth is reflected in the reality of creation, providence, and grace, as well as in the person of Jesus Christ and the Scriptures. Ultimately, Gill calls believers to trust in the unwavering truth of God, which stands in contrast to the deceitfulness of man.
The Sovereignty of Divine Grace
By Thomas Reade0DEU 29:29ACT 20:27ROM 3:23ROM 8:29EPH 1:4EPH 2:8COL 3:12TIT 1:21PE 1:21JN 5:11Thomas Reade preaches on the sovereignty of divine grace, emphasizing the importance of humility, faith, and prayer in understanding the gospel. He delves into the doctrine of Election, highlighting the controversies and the need for a humble heart to receive God's revelations. Reade stresses the necessity of acknowledging God's sovereignty in bestowing His gifts and the inability of man to save himself. He concludes by emphasizing the practical application of the Gospel truths in our lives, urging believers to exhibit the fruits of the Spirit and live in accordance with God's will.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
In hope of eternal life - In expectation of a state of being and well being which should last through eternity, when time should be no more. This includes, not only the salvation of the soul and its eternal beatification, but also the resurrection of the body. This was a point but ill understood, and not very clearly revealed, under the Mosaic law; but it was fully revealed under the Gospel, and the doctrine illustrated by the resurrection and ascension of Christ. Which God, that cannot lie, promised - We have often seen that the phrase, the foundation of the world, means the Jewish economy, and, before the foundation of the world, the times antecedent to the giving of the law. This is evidently the meaning here. See Ti2 1:9-11. Supposing the word αιωνιων in this verse to signify eternal, says Dr. Macknight, the literal translation of προ χρονων αιωνιων would be, before eternal times; but that being a contradiction in terms, our translators, contrary to the propriety of the Greek language, have rendered it before the world began, as Mr. Locke observes on Rom 16:25. The true literal translation is before the secular times, referring us to the Jewish jubilees, by which times were computed among the Hebrews, as among the Gentiles they were computed by generations of men. Hence, Col 1:26, The mystery which was kept hid απο των αιωνων και απο των γενεων, from the ages and from the generations, signifies the mystery which was kept hid from the Jews and from the Gentiles.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
In hope of eternal life--connected with the whole preceding sentence. That whereon rests my aim as an apostle to promote the elect's faith and full knowledge of the truth, is, "the hope of eternal life" (Tit 2:13; Tit 3:7; Act 23:6; Act 24:15; Act 28:20). that cannot lie-- (Rom 3:4; Rom 11:29; Heb 6:18). promised before the world began--a contracted expression for "purposed before the world began (literally, 'before the ages of time'), and promised actually in time," the promise springing from the eternal purpose; as in Ti2 1:9, the gift of grace was the result of the eternal purpose "before the world began."
John Gill Bible Commentary
In hope of eternal life,.... Or "for the hope of eternal life"; in order to bring souls to the hope of it. This is another end of the Gospel ministry, as to bring God's elect to faith in Christ, and to the knowledge and acknowledgement of the truth, as it is in Jesus, so to the hope of eternal glory and happiness: in a state of nature, they are without the grace of hope, or any true ground and foundation of it; and though it is the gift of God's grace, and is implanted on the soul by the Spirit of God in regeneration; yet the Gospel is the means of producing it at first, as well as afterwards encouraging and increasing it; for in it, Christ the foundation of hope is proposed, and set forth before awakened and convinced sinners: the object of this hope is "eternal life"; not anything now seen and enjoyed, for that is not hope; not anything in this present life, but something future; a life of perfect bliss and happiness with Christ to all eternity; which is a hope laid up in heaven, an inheritance reserved there; a life which is secured in the hands of Christ, which he has a power to give, and does give to all his sheep, and is the gift of God through him: and of which it is further said, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began; eternal life is a "promise", and so of free grace, and not by the works of the law, which is inconsistent with a promise: it is the promise of God, who is faithful to his word, and "can not lie"; being the God of truth, that can neither deceive, nor be deceived: this does not contradict his omnipotence, but argues the perfection of his nature, which cannot admit of anything that implies weakness and mutation: and this promise was made before the world was, as early as the choice of God's elect in Christ, and the gift of grace to them in him; as early as the covenant was made with him, and he was set up as the Mediator of it; who was present to receive this promise as their head and representative for them, and to whom it was made as federally considered in him, and in whom it was secured for them; see Ti2 1:1.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:2 The confidence that they have eternal life enables God’s people to live in the present in light of the future (see 2:11-14; 3:7-8). • God—who does not lie: The true God contrasts with popular Cretan conceptions (see study note on 1:12). This statement also underlines God’s plan of salvation as unchanging (1:1): God can be trusted to fulfill his promises (see Num 23:19; 1 Sam 15:29; Rom 3:3-4).