Titus 2:12

Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world;

Teaching {G3811} us {G2248} that {G2443}, denying {G720} ungodliness {G763} and {G2532} worldly {G2886} lusts {G1939}, we should live {G2198} soberly {G4996},{G2532} righteously {G1346}, and {G2532} godly {G2153}, in {G1722} this present {G3568} world {G165};

It teaches us to renounce godlessness and worldly pleasures, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives now, in this age;

It instructs us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live sensible, upright, and godly lives in the present age,

instructing us, to the intent that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly and righteously and godly in this present world;

Commentary

Titus 2:12 KJV is a powerful summary of Christian conduct, flowing directly from the truth of God's saving grace. It outlines both the negative renunciations and the positive affirmations required for a life pleasing to God.

Context

This verse is part of Paul’s instructions to Titus, his apostolic delegate on the island of Crete, concerning the proper conduct and teaching within the church. In Titus 2:11, Paul states that "the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men." Verse 12 then explains the practical, ethical outcome of this grace. It's not merely an intellectual assent, but a transformative power that teaches believers how to live in the present age while awaiting the blessed hope of Christ's return.

Key Themes

  • Grace as a Teacher: The verse highlights that God's grace is not just a past event (salvation) but an active, ongoing force that instructs believers on how to live. It's a divine pedagogy for practical godliness.
  • Denying Ungodliness and Worldly Lusts: Christian living begins with a clear, active rejection of what is contrary to God's nature and will. "Ungodliness" (asebeian) refers to irreverence or impiety towards God, while "worldly lusts" (kosmikas epithymias) are desires characteristic of the fallen world system, often mentioned in other Pauline epistles as things to be put off, such as those described in Ephesians 4:22. This denial is a conscious choice to separate from sinful patterns.
  • Living Soberly, Righteously, and Godly: This trio describes the positive aspects of Christian conduct.
    • Soberly (sophronos): Implies self-control, prudence, and a sound mind, especially concerning personal behavior and desires.
    • Righteously (dikaios): Refers to living justly and fairly in relation to other people, upholding moral standards and integrity in all dealings.
    • Godly (eusebos): Pertains to one's conduct in relation to God, characterized by reverence, devotion, and piety. This encompasses worship, prayer, and obedience to His Word.
  • In This Present World: The command is not for a future heavenly existence, but for active, transformed living right now, amidst the challenges and temptations of the current age. Believers are called to be distinct from the world, yet living within it as lights, as seen in Philippians 2:15.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word for "denying" is arnoumenoi (ἀρνούμενοι), a present participle, indicating a continuous, active process of renunciation. It's not a one-time decision but an ongoing posture of rejection. The three adverbs—sophronos (σωφρόνως), dikaios (δικαίως), and eusebos (εὐσεβῶς)—beautifully summarize the Christian's proper relationship with self, others, and God, respectively.

Practical Application

Titus 2:12 serves as a timeless call to holistic Christian discipleship. It reminds believers that true faith is evidenced by a transformed life. It challenges us to continually evaluate our desires and actions, actively rejecting anything that dishonors God or aligns with worldly values. Furthermore, it encourages a balanced life of self-control, integrity in our interactions, and sincere devotion to God, demonstrating the power of God's grace in our daily walk. This verse is foundational for understanding the practical implications of being transformed by the renewing of our minds.

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Ezekiel 36:27

    And I will put my spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes, and ye shall keep my judgments, and do [them].

  • Matthew 16:24

    ¶ Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any [man] will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.

  • Romans 6:19

    I speak after the manner of men because of the infirmity of your flesh: for as ye have yielded your members servants to uncleanness and to iniquity unto iniquity; even so now yield your members servants to righteousness unto holiness.

  • Ephesians 4:22

    That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts;

  • Ephesians 4:25

    Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour: for we are members one of another.

  • Psalms 4:3

    But know that the LORD hath set apart him that is godly for himself: the LORD will hear when I call unto him.

  • 2 Peter 2:9

    The Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptations, and to reserve the unjust unto the day of judgment to be punished: