Titus 1:6

KJV

¶ If any be blameless, the husband of one wife, having faithful children not accused of riot or unruly.

KJV (with Strong's)

If any {G1536} be {G2076} blameless {G410}, the husband {G435} of one {G3391} wife {G1135}, having {G2192} faithful {G4103} children {G5043} not {G3361} accused {G1722}{G2724} of riot {G810} or {G2228} unruly {G506}.

Complete Jewish Bible

A leader must be blameless, husband to one wife, with believing children who do not have a reputation for being wild or rebellious.

Berean Standard Bible

An elder must be blameless, the husband of but one wife, having children who are believers and who are not open to accusation of indiscretion or insubordination.

American Standard Version

if any man is blameless, the husband of one wife, having children that believe, who are not accused of riot or unruly.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Titus 1:6 outlines crucial qualifications for elders or overseers in the early church, emphasizing that a leader's public reputation, marital fidelity, and effective management of his own household are non-negotiable prerequisites for spiritual authority. This verse underscores the foundational principle that a man's ability to lead God's household, the church, is directly reflected in his demonstrated capacity to lead his own family with integrity, discipline, and godly influence, ensuring he is above reproach both personally and domestically.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is an integral part of Paul's instructions to Titus, whom he left in Crete to "set in order the things that are wanting, and ordain elders in every city" ([Titus 1:5](/titus/1-5 "Titus 1:5 - Titus's Mission in Crete")). Following a general command for establishing leadership, Paul immediately launches into a detailed list of qualifications for these prospective elders, beginning with the character and family life described in [Titus 1:6](/titus/1-6 "Titus 1:6 - Qualifications for Elders"). The subsequent verses ([Titus 1:7-9](/titus/1-7-9 "Titus 1:7-9 - Further Qualifications for Overseers")) continue this list, focusing on the elder's temperament, hospitality, and ability to teach and defend sound doctrine, contrasting these with the characteristics of false teachers who are causing disruption ([Titus 1:10-16](/titus/1-10-16 "Titus 1:10-16 - Warning Against False Teachers")). Thus, [Titus 1:6](/titus/1-6 "Titus 1:6 - Elder Qualifications") serves as the initial and foundational criterion, setting the stage for a comprehensive portrait of godly leadership.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Crete, where Titus was ministering, was known for its moral laxity and a reputation for deceitfulness, gluttony, and laziness, as famously quoted by Paul himself from a Cretan prophet in [Titus 1:12](/titus/1-12 "Titus 1:12 - Cretans' Character"). In such an environment, the establishment of morally upright and reputable leaders was paramount to distinguish the nascent Christian communities from the surrounding pagan culture and to provide a credible witness. The emphasis on a leader being "blameless" and having a well-ordered household directly addressed the societal norms where marital fidelity was often loose, and children might be undisciplined. Paul's strict requirements aimed to ensure that Christian leaders would not only exemplify Christ-like character but also counter the prevailing cultural deficiencies, thereby safeguarding the church's reputation and promoting its spiritual health in a challenging context.

* **Key Themes:** [Titus 1:6](/titus/1-6 "Titus 1:6 - Elder Qualifications") contributes significantly to several key themes within the book of Titus and the pastoral epistles. The foremost theme is **Godly Leadership and Church Order**, highlighting that the spiritual health and integrity of the church are directly tied to the character of its leaders. The requirement for a blameless life and a well-managed family underscores the theme of **Integrity and Reputation**, asserting that a leader's private life must align with his public ministry. This is closely linked to the theme of **Household Management as a Prerequisite for Church Leadership**, as seen also in [1 Timothy 3:4-5](/1_timothy/3-4-5 "1 Timothy 3:4-5 - Managing One's Household"). The verse also implicitly addresses the theme of **Sound Doctrine and Practical Piety**, recognizing that a leader's personal conduct and family life are practical outworkings of true faith, providing a living example of the "sound doctrine" that Titus is called to teach and uphold ([Titus 1:9](/titus/1-9 "Titus 1:9 - Holding Fast to Sound Doctrine")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Blameless (Greek, _anénklētos'_):** From G410, meaning "unaccused" or "irreproachable." This term signifies a life lived with such moral integrity that no legitimate charge or accusation can be brought against the individual, particularly concerning their ethical conduct or public reputation. It does not imply sinless perfection but rather a consistent, exemplary lifestyle that brings no disrepute to the gospel or the church.
* **Faithful (Greek, _pistós'_):** From G4103, meaning "trustworthy" or "trustful." In the context of "faithful children," this word carries a dual meaning. It can refer to children who are "believing" (i.e., Christians) or, more strongly implied by the accompanying phrase "not accused of riot or unruly," children who are "trustworthy," "obedient," and "disciplined." This indicates that the children's behavior reflects the parent's ability to instill Christian values and discipline within the home.
* **Unruly (Greek, _anypótaktos'_):** From G506, meaning "unsubdued" or "insubordinate." This term describes children who are disobedient, undisciplined, and refuse to submit to proper authority, specifically parental authority. Its inclusion alongside "riot" (G810, _asōtía_, meaning profligacy or dissolute living) paints a picture of children who are rebellious and live without moral restraint, which would disqualify a parent from leadership.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"If any be blameless":** This foundational requirement establishes the paramount importance of a leader's public reputation and moral integrity. The individual must live a life that is above reproach, free from legitimate accusations that would discredit their character or the Christian witness. This standard ensures that those in leadership are not vulnerable to scandal or legitimate criticism that could undermine their authority or the church's mission.
* **"the husband of one wife":** This phrase, literally "a one-woman man," emphasizes marital fidelity and monogamy. It is widely interpreted to mean that an elder must be devoted faithfully to his single spouse, demonstrating purity and commitment in his marriage. This qualification likely countered the prevalent practices of polygamy, divorce, and marital instability in the Greco-Roman world, setting a high standard for Christian leaders to exemplify marital sanctity and loyalty as a model for the community.
* **"having faithful children":** This clause highlights the leader's demonstrated ability to manage his own household effectively. The "faithful" nature of the children can refer to their belief in Christ or, more pertinently in this context, their obedience and good conduct. This suggests that a man's leadership in the church is prefigured by his success in discipling and guiding his own children in godly ways.
* **"not accused of riot or unruly":** This further specifies the expected conduct of the elder's children. "Riot" (Greek, _asōtía_) refers to dissolute living, profligacy, or wasteful extravagance, indicating a wild and uncontrolled lifestyle. "Unruly" (Greek, _anypótaktos_) means disobedient or insubordinate, describing children who refuse to submit to parental authority. The absence of such accusations against the children demonstrates the elder's capacity for spiritual leadership and discipline within his own home, which is seen as a prerequisite for leading God's household.

#### Literary Devices
The passage primarily employs **Exemplification** and **Synecdoche**. The list of qualifications for elders serves as a concrete **exemplification** of the kind of character and conduct expected from those who would lead God's people. Each criterion provides a specific example of what it means to be "blameless" and capable of spiritual oversight. Furthermore, the emphasis on the elder's family life, particularly the conduct of his children, functions as a form of **synecdoche**, where the part (the family) represents the whole (the man's capacity for leadership in the church). The success or failure in managing one's own household is presented as a direct indicator of one's fitness to manage the larger "household of God." This highlights the principle that true leadership begins at home and extends outward.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The qualifications for elders in [Titus 1:6](/titus/1-6 "Titus 1:6 - Qualifications for Elders") are deeply rooted in a theology of God's character and the nature of His church. God is a God of order, holiness, and truth, and He calls His leaders to reflect these attributes. The emphasis on blamelessness, marital fidelity, and a well-ordered family underscores the conviction that spiritual authority is not merely about intellectual knowledge or charismatic gifting, but fundamentally about moral integrity and proven stewardship in the most intimate sphere of life. This demonstrates that the church, as God's household, must be led by those who embody the very principles they teach, serving as living examples of the transformative power of the gospel. The domestic sphere becomes the primary proving ground for leadership, illustrating that if one cannot lead their own family in godliness and order, they cannot effectively lead the family of God.

* [1 Timothy 3:2-7](/1_timothy/3-2-7 "1 Timothy 3:2-7 - Qualifications for Overseers")
* [1 Peter 5:1-3](/1_peter/5-1-3 "1 Peter 5:1-3 - Shepherding the Flock")
* [Acts 20:28](/acts/20-28 "Acts 20:28 - Paul's Charge to the Ephesian Elders")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The stringent qualifications outlined in [Titus 1:6](/titus/1-6 "Titus 1:6 - Elder Qualifications") are not merely an ancient checklist for a select few; they serve as a profound call to integrity and responsible living for all believers. While specifically for elders, the principles of blamelessness, marital faithfulness, and diligent family discipleship are universal Christian virtues. This verse challenges us to consider how our private lives reflect our public confession of faith. Our homes are the primary arenas where our character is forged and tested; they are the first "ministries" God entrusts to us. If we aspire to any form of spiritual influence or leadership, whether formally appointed or through our daily witness, we must cultivate a life that is above reproach, honor our marital vows, and diligently shepherd our children in the ways of the Lord. This passage encourages us to live with intentionality, knowing that our conduct within our families serves as a powerful testimony to the transforming power of Christ and a foundational demonstration of our capacity for greater service in God's kingdom.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life, particularly my family life, can I strive for greater "blamelessness" to honor Christ?**
* **How does my commitment to my spouse and the health of my marriage reflect my commitment to Christ and His church?**
* **What practical steps can I take to more intentionally shepherd my children (or those under my influence) towards "faithfulness" and away from "riot or unruliness"?**
* **How does the principle that leadership begins at home challenge or affirm my current understanding of spiritual influence?**

### FAQ

**What does "the husband of one wife" truly mean in this context?**
Answer: The phrase "the husband of one wife" (Greek: _mias gunaikos andra_, literally "a one-woman man") is a crucial qualification for elders. While debated, the most robust and widely accepted interpretation emphasizes a man's complete devotion and faithfulness to his single spouse. It prohibits polygamy, serial monogamy (divorce and remarriage without biblical grounds), and any form of marital infidelity or promiscuity. It sets a high standard for marital purity and commitment, ensuring that a leader's most intimate relationship is exemplary and above reproach, reflecting the covenant faithfulness of Christ to His church ([Ephesians 5:25-33](/ephesians/5-25-33 "Ephesians 5:25-33 - Christ and the Church")).

**Why are children's behaviors so important for elder qualification?**
Answer: The conduct of an elder's children is seen as a direct reflection of his ability to lead and manage his household, which serves as a microcosm of the church. Paul explicitly states in [1 Timothy 3:5](/1_timothy/3-5 "1 Timothy 3:5 - Managing One's Own House") that "if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?" If a prospective elder's children are "accused of riot or unruly" (i.e., undisciplined, rebellious, or living dissolute lives), it indicates a failure in his primary sphere of leadership and discipleship. This doesn't mean children must be perfect, but rather that the parent has diligently and consistently sought to raise them in the discipline and instruction of the Lord ([Ephesians 6:4](/ephesians/6-4 "Ephesians 6:4 - Bringing Up Children in the Lord")), and their general conduct reflects this effort and the family's submission to Christ.

**Does "blameless" mean sinless perfection?**
Answer: No, "blameless" (Greek: _anénklētos_) does not mean sinless perfection. The Bible teaches that all humans, except Christ, are sinners ([Romans 3:23](/romans/3-23 "Romans 3:23 - All Have Sinned")). Rather, "blameless" means "unaccused" or "irreproachable." It signifies a life lived with such integrity and consistency that no legitimate, public accusation can be brought against the individual regarding their moral character or conduct. It implies a reputation that is above reproach, free from scandal or legitimate grounds for criticism that would discredit the gospel or the church. It speaks to a consistent pattern of righteous living and a readiness to repent and make amends when sin does occur, ensuring that the leader's life is a credible witness to Christ.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While [Titus 1:6](/titus/1-6 "Titus 1:6 - Qualifications for Elders") outlines human qualifications for leadership, its deepest fulfillment is found in Jesus Christ, the ultimate and perfect Overseer of our souls ([1 Peter 2:25](/1_peter/2-25 "1 Peter 2:25 - Christ, Shepherd and Overseer")). Jesus is the only one who was truly and absolutely "blameless," living a life entirely without sin or legitimate accusation ([Hebrews 4:15](/hebrews/4-15 "Hebrews 4:15 - Jesus, Our Sinless High Priest"); [1 Peter 1:19](/1_peter/1-19 "1 Peter 1:19 - The Precious Blood of Christ")). As the Son of God, He perfectly submitted to His Father's will, demonstrating perfect "faithfulness" and never being "unruly" or "accused of riot" in relation to divine authority ([John 8:29](/john/8-29 "John 8:29 - Jesus Always Does What Pleases the Father")). Furthermore, Christ is the "husband" of the church, His bride, displaying ultimate fidelity, sacrificial love, and unwavering commitment ([Ephesians 5:25-27](/ephesians/5-25-27 "Ephesians 5:25-27 - Christ's Love for the Church")). His perfect character and leadership serve as the standard and the enabling power for all who aspire to lead in His name. Through His atoning work, believers are declared righteous and empowered by the Holy Spirit to pursue blamelessness, faithfulness, and self-control, reflecting His image as they steward their own households and serve His church.

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

1 Timothy 3:2

A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach;

1 Timothy 3:7

Moreover he must have a good report of them which are without; lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.

1 Timothy 3:12

Let the deacons be the husbands of one wife, ruling their children and their own houses well.

Titus 1:6

¶ If any be blameless, the husband of one wife, having faithful children not accused of riot or unruly.

Titus 1:8

But a lover of hospitality, a lover of good men, sober, just, holy, temperate;

Leviticus 21:7

They shall not take a wife [that is] a whore, or profane; neither shall they take a woman put away from her husband: for he [is] holy unto his God.

Ezekiel 44:22

Neither shall they take for their wives a widow, nor her that is put away: but they shall take maidens of the seed of the house of Israel, or a widow that had a priest before.