3:1 3:1

Titus 3:2

3:3 3:3

Bible Versions

To speak evil of no man, to be no brawlers, [but] gentle, shewing all meekness unto all men.
To speak evil of {G987} no man {G3367}, to be {G1511} no brawlers {G269}, but gentle {G1933}, shewing {G1731} all {G3956} meekness {G4236} unto {G4314} all {G3956} men {G444}.
to slander no one, to avoid quarrelling, to be friendly, and to behave gently towards everyone.
to malign no one, and to be peaceable and gentle, showing full consideration to everyone.
to speak evil of no man, not to be contentious, to be gentle, showing all meekness toward all men.

Titus 3:2 is part of Paul's practical exhortation to Titus concerning the conduct expected of believers, particularly how they should interact with society at large. This verse emphasizes the importance of a peaceable and respectful demeanor, reflecting the transformative power of the Gospel in daily life.

Context

This verse immediately follows Paul's command for believers to be submissive to rulers and authorities, obedient, and ready for every good work (Titus 3:1). The letter to Titus was written to guide him in establishing and nurturing healthy churches on the island of Crete, a place whose inhabitants were notorious for being unruly and difficult (as noted in Titus 1:12). In this challenging environment, Paul stresses that Christian conduct, especially in public and interpersonal relationships, is a vital testimony to God's grace.

Key Themes

  • Control of the Tongue: The command "To speak evil of no man" directly addresses the destructive power of slander, gossip, and harsh criticism. It calls believers to exercise self-control in their speech, ensuring their words build up rather than tear down. This aligns with other New Testament teachings on wholesome speech, such as those found in Ephesians 4:29.
  • Avoiding Conflict: "To be no brawlers" instructs believers to avoid quarrels, contentious arguments, and physical altercations. It promotes a spirit of peaceableness and reconciliation, encouraging Christians to be peacemakers in all their interactions.
  • Gentleness and Meekness: The positive commands "but gentle, shewing all meekness unto all men" highlight virtues that reflect Christ's character.
    • Gentle (Greek: epieikes) implies being reasonable, mild, forbearing, and gracious rather than harsh or rigid.
    • Meekness (Greek: prautes) is not weakness but strength under control; a humble, patient, and submissive spirit that is not easily provoked or retaliatory. It is a key aspect of the fruit of the Spirit.
  • Universal Application: The phrase "unto all men" underscores that these virtues are to be shown not just to fellow believers, but to everyone—family, neighbors, colleagues, and even those who may be hostile. This universal application is crucial for Christian witness.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word translated "speak evil" is blasphemeo, which can mean to slander, revile, or speak injuriously. It's a strong term indicating destructive and disrespectful language. "Brawlers" comes from amachos, literally meaning "not fighting" or "peaceable," emphasizing a disposition that avoids quarrels and disputes. The pairing of epieikes ("gentle" or "forbearing") and prautes ("meekness" or "humility") presents a comprehensive picture of a gracious and controlled demeanor, essential for a godly character.

Practical Application

Titus 3:2 remains profoundly relevant for believers today. In an often contentious world, this verse calls Christians to:

  1. Guard their words: Be mindful of how we speak about others, especially in public discourse or online. Avoid gossip, slander, and needlessly harsh criticism.
  2. Promote peace: Seek to de-escalate conflicts rather than instigate them. Be known as someone who brings calm and understanding, not discord.
  3. Cultivate humility and patience: Develop a gentle and meek spirit that can absorb offenses without retaliation, mirroring the patience God showed us.
  4. Be a consistent witness: By demonstrating these virtues "unto all men," believers provide a powerful and attractive testimony to the transforming power of Christ, helping others to see the beauty of the Gospel lived out.
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.

  • Ephesians 4:31

    Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice:

  • 2 Timothy 2:24

    And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all [men], apt to teach, patient,

  • 2 Timothy 2:25

    In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth;

  • Ephesians 4:2

    ¶ With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love;

  • Colossians 3:12

    ¶ Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering;

  • Colossians 3:13

    Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also [do] ye.

  • 1 Timothy 3:3

    Not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous;
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