Titus 1:9
Verse
Context
Sermons
Eric J. Alexander
J.H. Newman
St. John Chrysostom
J.C. Philpot
A.W. Tozer
Anton BoschSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Holding fast the faithful word - Conscientiously retaining, and zealously maintaining, the true Christian doctrine, κατα την διδαχην, according to the instructions, or according to the institutions, form of sound doctrine, or confession of faith, which I have delivered to thee. That he may be able by sound doctrine - If the doctrine be not sound, vain is the profession of it, and vain its influence. It is good to be zealously affected in a good thing; but zeal for what is not of God will do no good to the souls of men, how sincere soever that zeal may be. To exhort - Them to hold the faith, that they may persevere. And to convince - Refute the objections, confound the sophistry, and convert the gainsayers; and thus defend the truth.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Holding fast--Holding firmly to (compare Mat 6:24; Luk 16:13). the faithful--true and trustworthy (Ti1 1:15). word as he has been taught--literally, "the word (which is) according to the teaching" which he has received (compare Ti1 4:6, end; Ti2 3:14). by--Translate as Greek, "to exhort in doctrine (instruction) which is sound"; sound doctrine or instruction is the element IN which his exhorting is to have place . . . On "sound" (peculiar to the Pastoral Epistles), see Ti1 1:10; Ti1 6:3. convince--rather, "reprove" [ALFORD], (Tit 1:13).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Holding fast the faithful word,.... The doctrine of the Gospel, so called because it is true, and to be believed; it is the word of truth, and truth itself, and contains nothing but truth; and because it never deceived any, that gave credit to its doctrines, and its promises; and because it is pure, unmixed, and unadulterated, and is the sincere milk of the word; and because in it is a glorious display of the faithfulness of God to his perfections, to his holiness and justice, to his law, and to his covenant, word, and oath; and of the faithfulness of Christ, to him that appointed him and to his covenant engagements, and which has appeared in the discharge of his various offices: and this is not only to be held forth by the elder, but to be held fast, and tenaciously abode by; in opposition to all wavering about it, departure from it, dropping or concealing any part of it, and pusillanimity concerning it; whatever temptations there may be to the contrary, through popular applause on the one hand, and reproaches and persecutions on the other; and though there may be many that may endeavour to wring it out of his hands; see Ti2 1:13, as he hath been taught; or "according to doctrine": that is, according to the doctrine of the Scriptures, Christ, and his apostles; according to the doctrine that lies in the Scriptures that was delivered by Christ, and preached by his apostles; whatever is according to that should be held fast: or which is for doctrine, which tends to teach, instruct, and edify the minds of men, that ought to be constantly abode by: or as the elder himself has been taught, not by men, in a theoretical way, as logic, rhetoric, and other arts and sciences are taught; for such who are only taught the faithful word in this way, are not likely to hold it fast, in a time of temptation; but as he has been taught it experimentally by the Spirit of God; and such an one, who has not only the knowledge of it in his head, but the experience of it in his heart, will hold it, and hold it fast against all opposition: that he may be able, by sound doctrine, both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers; sound doctrine is the faithful word, the wholesome words of our Lord Jesus Christ, which being retained, qualify an elder to discharge the following branches of his office; to "exhort" the members of churches to their duty, according to their age, sex, state, and condition, as in chapter 2 to which the doctrines of grace influence and engage; or to comfort them, as the word also signifies, and the Alexandrian copy reads, "to comfort them in all tribulation"; and this is one considerable part of the elder's work, to comfort souls under affliction, whether of body or mind; and sound doctrines, or the doctrines of the Gospel, are wonderfully suited to such a purpose: and the other part of his work is, "to convince gainsayers"; such who resist the truth, oppose themselves to it, cavil at it, and object against it; these are to be refitted, and convinced by the Scriptures, and arguments taken from them, as the Jews were by Apollos, Act 18:28 and nothing is so powerful to do it as sound doctrine, and holding fast the faithful word.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:9 The elders had a leading role in teaching the community. This may have been necessary in dealing with the immediate threat to these particular communities (as also in Ephesus; see 1 Tim 3:1). • Only with a strong belief in the Good News would an elder be able to provide wholesome teaching. Paul’s specific concerns are addressed in Titus 2:1–3:11, in light of the problems mentioned in 1:10-16 and 3:9-11 (see also 1 Tim 1:10). • Titus had a similar role (cp. Titus 1:13; 2:15; 3:10-11). The local leadership would carry on where Paul and his delegates left off. • Those who oppose it are described in 1:10-16.
Titus 1:9
Appointing Elders on Crete
8Instead, he must be hospitable, a lover of good, self-controlled, upright, holy, and disciplined.9He must hold firmly to the faithful word as it was taught, so that he can encourage others by sound teaching and refute those who contradict it.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(Titus - Part 9): Qualifications for Church Leadership Iii
By A.W. Tozer4.0K33:31TitusPSA 19:1MAT 6:33JHN 14:61CO 2:9EPH 4:142TI 3:16TIT 1:9In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the absolute nature of the word of God. He describes it as a divine revelation that tells us what we need to know about God, although it does not reveal everything. The preacher emphasizes the importance of not compromising or modifying the teachings of the Bible. He also criticizes the tendency of some Americans to take their democracy for granted and adopt borrowed convictions without critical thinking. The preacher concludes by stating that true faith is not mere conformity, but a personal belief that is passed down from generation to generation.
Part 2, Wed (Toronto Spiritual Life Convention 1993)
By Eric J. Alexander1.4K59:18TIT 1:9In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of the proclamation of the gospel in evangelism. He refers to the example of Paul in Corinth, who faced difficulties but was encouraged by God's message that there were many people in the city who would come to faith. The speaker highlights that Paul's ministry had two main purposes: evangelism and teaching. He explains that the goal of faith and knowledge is godliness, and that the ultimate hope of believers is the promise of eternal life. The speaker also emphasizes the need for moral transformation and godliness in the Christian church today, which can be achieved through the knowledge of the truth.
Sermons for Saints' Days and Holidays. No. 2, the Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary
By J.H. Newman0MAT 16:18JHN 15:161CO 15:14GAL 1:8EPH 4:111TI 4:162TI 2:2TIT 1:91JN 4:1JUD 1:3J.H. Newman preaches about the importance of upholding the true Gospel of Jesus Christ, emphasizing the foundational belief in the Incarnation of our Lord and Savior as essential for our faith and salvation. He highlights the Apostolic succession as a divine guard appointed by God to preserve the integrity of Apostolic doctrine, protecting against heresies and false teachings. Newman explains how the Bishops and Pastors in the Church were chosen as apostolical guardians of the true faith, acting as a safeguard against doctrinal corruptions and ensuring the continuity of sound doctrine through the centuries.
Titus 1:5, 6
By St. John Chrysostom0MAT 6:23JHN 5:41ROM 2:29TIT 1:5TIT 1:9John Chrysostom preaches about the importance of appointing blameless elders in every city, emphasizing the qualities they should possess such as being faithful, not given to wine, and having obedient children. He highlights the need for leaders to be examples of virtue and to hold fast to the faithful word they have been taught, in order to exhort and convince those who oppose the truth. Chrysostom warns against the dangers of seeking glory from men, urging humility and a focus on true, lasting glory that comes from God alone.
The Call and Qualifications for the Ministry
By J.C. Philpot0DEU 32:2EPH 6:19COL 4:31TI 3:6TIT 1:9J.C. Philpot delves into the importance of a divine call and necessary qualifications for the Gospel ministry. He emphasizes that a true call to the ministry involves a deep inward witness from God, a great backwardness to the work, strong leadings in providence, and a willingness to endure suffering and sacrifice. Philpot also discusses the need for grace and gifts as qualifications for the ministry, highlighting the essential experience of the things of God, a clear understanding and defense of truth, and a continual flow of divine life to give power to one's gift.
Friends or Just Acquaintances?
By A.W. Tozer0JHN 4:23ROM 6:171TI 1:152TI 2:2TIT 1:9Larry Richards emphasizes the importance of 'the standard' or prototype in preaching and teaching, using the Greek word 'hupotuposis' to illustrate the concept of a model for imitation or outline for guidance. Paul urges Timothy to adhere to the doctrinal beliefs outlined in Scripture, ensuring the integrity and accuracy of his ministry. The 'plumb line' of sound doctrine serves as a foundation for building up strong, solid believers, especially crucial as we near the end times and the return of Christ.
Truth With Tears
By Anton Bosch0MAT 5:44ACT 18:21ACT 20:28ROM 12:142TI 2:232TI 2:25TIT 1:9JAS 3:101PE 2:231PE 3:9Anton Bosch addresses the misconception that aggressive and abrasive behavior is justified in defending the truth by examining the teachings of Jesus and the apostles. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining a spirit of love, blessing those who oppose us, and not repaying evil with evil. The sermon highlights the need for pure motives and obedience to God's will when addressing false teachings, rather than engaging in malicious name-calling or threats. Bosch stresses the biblical mandate to protect the sheep from error and to seek the restoration of those in opposition, all while maintaining a heart of compassion and sorrow for those who are led astray.
Our Field of Battle
By C.H. Spurgeon0MAT 15:9ROM 15:4EPH 4:12COL 2:221TI 4:11TI 6:32TI 3:16TIT 1:9The preacher discusses the importance of sound doctrine in Christianity, emphasizing that doctrine encompasses the essential theological truths rooted in the life of Jesus Christ. He warns against false teachings and the dangers of elevating man's wisdom above God's. The sermon highlights the critical role of doctrine in guiding behavior and the need for spiritual leaders to diligently minister the Word of Truth. The preacher stresses the significance of continually nourishing oneself with sound doctrine to avoid falling away from the faith and being led astray by deceitful spirits and demonic doctrines.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Holding fast the faithful word - Conscientiously retaining, and zealously maintaining, the true Christian doctrine, κατα την διδαχην, according to the instructions, or according to the institutions, form of sound doctrine, or confession of faith, which I have delivered to thee. That he may be able by sound doctrine - If the doctrine be not sound, vain is the profession of it, and vain its influence. It is good to be zealously affected in a good thing; but zeal for what is not of God will do no good to the souls of men, how sincere soever that zeal may be. To exhort - Them to hold the faith, that they may persevere. And to convince - Refute the objections, confound the sophistry, and convert the gainsayers; and thus defend the truth.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Holding fast--Holding firmly to (compare Mat 6:24; Luk 16:13). the faithful--true and trustworthy (Ti1 1:15). word as he has been taught--literally, "the word (which is) according to the teaching" which he has received (compare Ti1 4:6, end; Ti2 3:14). by--Translate as Greek, "to exhort in doctrine (instruction) which is sound"; sound doctrine or instruction is the element IN which his exhorting is to have place . . . On "sound" (peculiar to the Pastoral Epistles), see Ti1 1:10; Ti1 6:3. convince--rather, "reprove" [ALFORD], (Tit 1:13).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Holding fast the faithful word,.... The doctrine of the Gospel, so called because it is true, and to be believed; it is the word of truth, and truth itself, and contains nothing but truth; and because it never deceived any, that gave credit to its doctrines, and its promises; and because it is pure, unmixed, and unadulterated, and is the sincere milk of the word; and because in it is a glorious display of the faithfulness of God to his perfections, to his holiness and justice, to his law, and to his covenant, word, and oath; and of the faithfulness of Christ, to him that appointed him and to his covenant engagements, and which has appeared in the discharge of his various offices: and this is not only to be held forth by the elder, but to be held fast, and tenaciously abode by; in opposition to all wavering about it, departure from it, dropping or concealing any part of it, and pusillanimity concerning it; whatever temptations there may be to the contrary, through popular applause on the one hand, and reproaches and persecutions on the other; and though there may be many that may endeavour to wring it out of his hands; see Ti2 1:13, as he hath been taught; or "according to doctrine": that is, according to the doctrine of the Scriptures, Christ, and his apostles; according to the doctrine that lies in the Scriptures that was delivered by Christ, and preached by his apostles; whatever is according to that should be held fast: or which is for doctrine, which tends to teach, instruct, and edify the minds of men, that ought to be constantly abode by: or as the elder himself has been taught, not by men, in a theoretical way, as logic, rhetoric, and other arts and sciences are taught; for such who are only taught the faithful word in this way, are not likely to hold it fast, in a time of temptation; but as he has been taught it experimentally by the Spirit of God; and such an one, who has not only the knowledge of it in his head, but the experience of it in his heart, will hold it, and hold it fast against all opposition: that he may be able, by sound doctrine, both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers; sound doctrine is the faithful word, the wholesome words of our Lord Jesus Christ, which being retained, qualify an elder to discharge the following branches of his office; to "exhort" the members of churches to their duty, according to their age, sex, state, and condition, as in chapter 2 to which the doctrines of grace influence and engage; or to comfort them, as the word also signifies, and the Alexandrian copy reads, "to comfort them in all tribulation"; and this is one considerable part of the elder's work, to comfort souls under affliction, whether of body or mind; and sound doctrines, or the doctrines of the Gospel, are wonderfully suited to such a purpose: and the other part of his work is, "to convince gainsayers"; such who resist the truth, oppose themselves to it, cavil at it, and object against it; these are to be refitted, and convinced by the Scriptures, and arguments taken from them, as the Jews were by Apollos, Act 18:28 and nothing is so powerful to do it as sound doctrine, and holding fast the faithful word.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:9 The elders had a leading role in teaching the community. This may have been necessary in dealing with the immediate threat to these particular communities (as also in Ephesus; see 1 Tim 3:1). • Only with a strong belief in the Good News would an elder be able to provide wholesome teaching. Paul’s specific concerns are addressed in Titus 2:1–3:11, in light of the problems mentioned in 1:10-16 and 3:9-11 (see also 1 Tim 1:10). • Titus had a similar role (cp. Titus 1:13; 2:15; 3:10-11). The local leadership would carry on where Paul and his delegates left off. • Those who oppose it are described in 1:10-16.