Titus 1:5

KJV

¶ For this cause left I thee in Crete, that thou shouldest set in order the things that are wanting, and ordain elders in every city, as I had appointed thee:

KJV (with Strong's)

For this {G5127} cause {G5484} left I {G2641} thee {G4571} in {G1722} Crete {G2914}, that {G2443} thou shouldest set in order {G1930} the things that are wanting {G3007}, and {G2532} ordain {G2525} elders {G4245} in every {G2596} city {G4172}, as {G5613} I {G1473} had appointed {G1299} thee {G4671}:

Complete Jewish Bible

The reason I left you in Crete was so that you might attend to the matters still not in order and appoint congregation leaders in each city — those were my instructions.

Berean Standard Bible

The reason I left you in Crete was that you would set in order what was unfinished and appoint elders in every town, as I directed you.

American Standard Version

For this cause left I thee in Crete, that thou shouldest set in order the things that were wanting, and appoint elders in every city, as I gave thee charge;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Titus 1:5 serves as a foundational apostolic directive from Paul to his trusted co-worker Titus, outlining the crucial tasks he was left in Crete to accomplish: to bring order to the nascent Christian communities by addressing deficiencies and, most significantly, to establish qualified spiritual leadership through the ordination of elders in every city. This verse underscores Paul's deep concern for the proper structure, spiritual health, and ongoing stability of the early church, ensuring that new congregations were not left without mature and godly oversight.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows Paul's opening salutation and a profound theological statement about the nature of God, the hope of eternal life, and the manifestation of His word through apostolic preaching in [Titus 1:1-4](/titus/1-1-4 "Titus 1:1-4 - Paul's Greeting and Apostolic Mandate"). Titus 1:5 transitions from the theological grounding to the practical outworking of the gospel in the life of the church. It introduces the primary reason Paul left Titus on Crete, setting the stage for the detailed qualifications of elders that follow in [Titus 1:6-9](/titus/1-6-9 "Titus 1:6-9 - Qualifications for Elders") and the subsequent warnings against false teachers in [Titus 1:10-16](/titus/1-10-16 "Titus 1:10-16 - Dealing with False Teachers"). Thus, it acts as a pivotal bridge between the epistle's theological introduction and its practical instructions regarding church governance and sound doctrine.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Crete was a large, strategically important island in the Mediterranean, known in ancient times for its diverse population and, unfortunately, a reputation for moral laxity, as famously quoted by Paul himself in [Titus 1:12-13](/titus/1-12-13 "Titus 1:12-13 - The Character of Cretans"). The Christian communities there were relatively new and likely lacked established structures and mature leadership. Paul's departure from Crete, leaving Titus behind, suggests a need for immediate, authoritative intervention to stabilize and organize these fledgling churches. The task of "setting in order" implies that these communities were experiencing internal issues, perhaps disorganization, doctrinal drift, or behavioral problems, which were common challenges in new Christian contexts without strong, indigenous leadership. The appointment of elders was a standard practice in the early church, reflecting a Jewish synagogue model of local leadership, adapted for Christian communities.

* **Key Themes:** Titus 1:5 introduces several crucial themes that permeate the entire epistle. First, it highlights the **importance of church order and structure**, emphasizing that the gospel's impact extends beyond individual conversion to the corporate life of believers. The phrase "set in order the things that are wanting" directly addresses the practical need for proper administration and spiritual health within the local congregation. Second, it underscores the theme of **apostolic authority and delegation**, as Paul, an apostle, entrusts Titus with significant responsibility, demonstrating the pattern of passing on leadership and oversight. This delegation is vital for the ongoing mission of the church. Third, the verse introduces the central theme of **qualified leadership**, specifically the ordination of elders. This emphasizes that the stability, doctrinal purity, and spiritual vitality of a church are intrinsically linked to the character, maturity, and teaching ability of its leaders, a theme extensively developed in [Titus 1:6-9](/titus/1-6-9 "Titus 1:6-9 - Qualifications for Elders"). Finally, the directive to ordain elders "in every city" points to the **missionary expansion and church planting** efforts of the early church, indicating that the gospel had spread across the island, necessitating the establishment of self-sustaining, biblically led congregations.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **set in order (Greek, _epidiorthóō'_):** This compound verb, used only here in the New Testament, is derived from `epi` (upon, in addition) and `diorthóō` (to straighten out, correct). It signifies a thorough and complete rectification, arranging, or setting right what is amiss or deficient. It implies a comprehensive process of bringing things into proper alignment, suggesting that the churches in Crete were in a state of disarray or lacked essential components.
* **wanting (Greek, _leípō'_):** This verb means "to leave," "to fail," or "to be absent/deficient." In this context, it refers to things that are lacking, incomplete, or left undone within the Cretan churches. It highlights the deficiencies or imperfections that Titus was commissioned to address, whether in terms of organization, doctrine, or practice.
* **ordain (Greek, _kathístēmi'_):** This verb means "to place down permanently," "to appoint," "to designate," or "to constitute." It denotes the authoritative act of establishing or installing individuals into a specific office or position. Here, it refers to the formal appointment of elders, emphasizing the deliberate and authoritative nature of their selection and installation into leadership roles within each city's church.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For this cause left I thee in Crete":** Paul explicitly states the reason for Titus's presence on the island. Paul himself had been on Crete, likely establishing initial Christian communities, but had since departed, entrusting Titus with the vital task of continuing and completing the work. This highlights the apostolic strategy of planting churches and then delegating the responsibility for their ongoing development to trusted co-workers.
* **"that thou shouldest set in order the things that are wanting":** This clause defines the first major part of Titus's mission. It indicates that the nascent churches in Crete were not fully established or properly functioning. There were "things that are wanting" – deficiencies, incomplete structures, or perhaps even moral and doctrinal issues – that needed to be systematically corrected and arranged. This implies a need for organizational, administrative, and perhaps even disciplinary action to bring the churches into a state of health and proper alignment with apostolic teaching.
* **"and ordain elders in every city":** This is the second, and arguably primary, component of Titus's mission, and the means by which the "things that are wanting" would be addressed. Paul instructs Titus to formally appoint qualified leaders, known as elders (presbyters), in each city where a Christian community existed. This underscores the crucial role of local, indigenous leadership for the stability, spiritual growth, and perpetuation of the church. The emphasis on "every city" indicates the widespread nature of the gospel's impact on Crete and the need for consistent, qualified oversight across the island.
* **"as I had appointed thee":** This concluding phrase reinforces Titus's authority and validates his mission. His actions were not self-initiated but were directly in accordance with Paul's specific instructions and apostolic appointment. This lends weight to Titus's authority among the Cretan believers and emphasizes the continuity of apostolic teaching and practice in the establishment of the early church.

#### Literary Devices
The verse primarily employs **Didactic Language**, as it functions as a direct instruction or command from Paul to Titus, outlining specific tasks and responsibilities. The language is clear, concise, and prescriptive, characteristic of an epistle focused on church order and pastoral guidance. There is also an element of **Delegation**, a literary and theological device where authority and responsibility are formally transferred from a higher authority (Paul, as an apostle) to a subordinate (Titus). This highlights the hierarchical yet collaborative nature of early Christian leadership. Furthermore, the phrase "set in order the things that are wanting" uses **Metaphorical Language**, likening the church to something that is incomplete or disarranged and needs to be straightened or completed, implying a process of restoration and proper alignment.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Titus 1:5 is a foundational text for understanding the early church's structure and the importance of qualified leadership. It reveals God's design for His people to be organized, not chaotic, and for spiritual authority to be vested in godly individuals who can shepherd the flock. This emphasis on order and leadership is not merely for human efficiency but for the preservation of sound doctrine and the promotion of holy living, ensuring that the church accurately reflects the character of God to the world. The appointment of elders in every city demonstrates a commitment to establishing mature, self-sustaining communities of faith, capable of discipling believers and spreading the gospel locally, rather than perpetually relying on external apostolic oversight. This divine mandate for order and leadership continues to shape ecclesiology and pastoral practice in the church today.

* [Acts 14:23](/acts/14-23 "Acts 14:23 - Appointment of Elders")
* [1 Timothy 3:1-7](/1_timothy/3-1-7 "1 Timothy 3:1-7 - Qualifications for Overseers")
* [Hebrews 13:17](/hebrews/13-17 "Hebrews 13:17 - Obey Your Leaders")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Titus 1:5 offers profound insights for believers and churches across all generations. It powerfully reminds us that the health and effectiveness of any Christian community are deeply intertwined with the quality of its leadership and the intentional pursuit of order. For individual believers, this verse calls for a recognition of and submission to the God-ordained leadership within their local church, understanding that elders are appointed for their spiritual welfare and guidance. It also encourages us to pray for our leaders, to support them, and to hold them accountable to biblical standards. For churches, it serves as a perpetual blueprint for establishing and maintaining sound governance, emphasizing that deficiencies must be addressed and that the appointment of biblically qualified elders is not optional but essential. This means prioritizing character and doctrinal integrity over charisma or popularity in leadership selection, and continually striving to bring every aspect of church life into alignment with God's word.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "things are wanting" in my own spiritual life or in my local church that need to be "set in order"?**
* **How does the emphasis on appointing qualified elders challenge modern approaches to church leadership or my own expectations of leaders?**
* **In what ways can I actively support and pray for the elders and leaders in my church, recognizing their God-given role?**

### FAQ
**Why was Titus left in Crete, specifically, and what does "set in order the things that are wanting" imply about the Cretan churches?**

Answer: Titus was left in Crete because Paul, having likely initiated evangelism and church planting there, needed a trusted apostolic delegate to consolidate the work. Crete was known for its challenging moral and cultural environment (as alluded to in [Titus 1:12](/titus/1-12 "Titus 1:12 - Cretans' Reputation")), and the new Christian communities were evidently lacking in structure, maturity, or adherence to sound doctrine. The phrase "set in order the things that are wanting" (Greek: _epidiorthóō_ and _leípō_) implies that these churches were incomplete, disorganized, or had significant deficiencies that needed thorough correction. This could have included issues with false teaching, immoral behavior, lack of proper administration, or simply the absence of recognized, mature leadership. Titus's mission was to bring stability, rectify errors, and establish the necessary framework for healthy church life.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Titus 1:5 directly addresses the practical administration of the early church, its ultimate fulfillment and significance are deeply rooted in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The very purpose of establishing order and appointing godly leaders is to ensure the purity and propagation of the gospel, which is the good news of Christ's redemptive work. Jesus Himself is the ultimate "Overseer" and "Shepherd of our souls" ([1 Peter 2:25](/1_peter/2-25 "1 Peter 2:25 - Christ, the Shepherd of Souls")), the one who perfectly "sets in order" all things, bringing cosmos out of chaos in creation and redemption. The elders appointed by Titus were to shepherd the flock of God, just as Christ, the Good Shepherd, lays down His life for His sheep ([John 10:11](/john/10-11 "John 10:11 - The Good Shepherd")). Furthermore, the church's order and the qualifications for its leaders reflect the character of Christ Himself—His holiness, integrity, and faithfulness. The establishment of stable, biblically-led churches in every city was part of God's sovereign plan to build His church, against which the gates of hell would not prevail ([Matthew 16:18](/matthew/16-18 "Matthew 16:18 - The Church Built on Christ")), ultimately preparing a spotless bride for Christ's return ([Ephesians 5:27](/ephesians/5-27 "Ephesians 5:27 - Christ's Love for the Church")). Thus, Titus's mission, though practical, served the overarching divine purpose of expanding Christ's kingdom and establishing communities that would bear witness to His saving power and perfect order until His glorious return.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Acts 14:23

And when they had ordained them elders in every church, and had prayed with fasting, they commended them to the Lord, on whom they believed.

1 Timothy 1:3

As I besought thee to abide still at Ephesus, when I went into Macedonia, that thou mightest charge some that they teach no other doctrine,

Ecclesiastes 12:9

And moreover, because the preacher was wise, he still taught the people knowledge; yea, he gave good heed, and sought out, [and] set in order many proverbs.

1 Corinthians 14:40

Let all things be done decently and in order.

Isaiah 44:7

And who, as I, shall call, and shall declare it, and set it in order for me, since I appointed the ancient people? and the things that are coming, and shall come, let them shew unto them.

Acts 27:12

¶ And because the haven was not commodious to winter in, the more part advised to depart thence also, if by any means they might attain to Phenice, [and there] to winter; [which is] an haven of Crete, and lieth toward the south west and north west.

Acts 11:30

Which also they did, and sent it to the elders by the hands of Barnabas and Saul.