Titus 3:2

KJV

To speak evil of no man, to be no brawlers, [but] gentle, shewing all meekness unto all men.

KJV (with Strong's)

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}.

Complete Jewish Bible

to slander no one, to avoid quarrelling, to be friendly, and to behave gently towards everyone.

Berean Standard Bible

to malign no one, and to be peaceable and gentle, showing full consideration to everyone.

American Standard Version

to speak evil of no man, not to be contentious, to be gentle, showing all meekness toward all men.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Titus 3:2 provides a concise yet profound ethical mandate for Christian conduct, urging believers to cultivate a public testimony marked by peaceable and respectful interactions with all people. It specifically calls for the avoidance of slander and quarrels, while actively promoting gentleness and meekness as foundational virtues that reflect the transformative power of the Gospel in daily life, serving as a vital witness to the surrounding world.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is an integral part of Paul's practical instructions to Titus regarding the behavior expected of believers within society. It immediately follows the directive in [Titus 3:1](/titus/3-1 "Titus 3:1 - Submission to Authorities") for Christians to be submissive to governing authorities, obedient, and prepared for every good work. Paul transitions from civic obedience to interpersonal conduct, emphasizing that the internal transformation wrought by God's grace should manifest outwardly in how believers speak and interact with others. The subsequent verses, [Titus 3:3-7](/titus/3-3-7 "Titus 3:3-7 - The Basis of God's Grace"), provide the theological foundation for these ethical commands, reminding believers of their former sinful state and the gracious redemption they received through Christ, which empowers and obligates them to live differently.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Paul wrote this letter to Titus, his apostolic delegate, who was tasked with organizing and establishing healthy churches on the island of Crete. The Cretan society was notoriously challenging, with its inhabitants described by a Cretan prophet (Epimenides, quoted by Paul in [Titus 1:12](/titus/1-12 "Titus 1:12 - Character of Cretans")) as "always liars, evil beasts, lazy gluttons." In such an environment, where conflict, slander, and unruly behavior were common, Paul's instructions for Christian conduct were not merely idealistic but strategically vital. The church's public reputation and its ability to effectively share the Gospel depended heavily on its members demonstrating virtues that stood in stark contrast to the prevailing culture. Exhibiting gentleness and peaceableness "unto all men" would distinguish believers and validate their message of divine grace.
* **Key Themes:** Titus 3:2 contributes significantly to several key themes within the letter and Pauline theology. It underscores the theme of **Christian witness and evangelism**, emphasizing that the manner in which believers conduct themselves in public is a powerful testimony to the transforming power of the Gospel, potentially drawing others to faith. It also highlights the **practical outworking of salvation**, demonstrating that justification by grace through faith ([Titus 3:7](/titus/3-7 "Titus 3:7 - Justification by Grace")) is not merely a legal declaration but leads to a renewed life characterized by ethical behavior. The verse further develops the theme of **interpersonal relationships**, particularly with non-believers, stressing the importance of peace, respect, and humility. Finally, it reinforces the broader Pauline emphasis on **sanctification** and the cultivation of virtues, aligning with the "fruit of the Spirit" described in [Galatians 5:22-23](/galatians/5-22-23 "Galatians 5:22-23 - The Fruit of the Spirit"), where meekness and self-control are prominent.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Speak evil (Greek, _blasphēméō'_):** This word, often translated as "blaspheme" when directed towards God, means "to vilify" or "to speak impiously" in a broader sense. When applied to people, as here, it signifies slandering, reviling, or defaming. It denotes destructive, injurious, and disrespectful language that aims to harm another's reputation or character.
* **Brawlers (Greek, _ámachos'_):** Derived from a negative particle ("a-") and the word for "fight" or "battle" (_machē_), this term literally means "not fighting" or "peaceable." It describes a disposition that avoids quarrels, contentious arguments, and physical altercations, promoting a spirit of non-confrontation and reconciliation.
* **Gentle (Greek, _epieikḗs'_):** This word implies being "appropriate" or "mild." It refers to a disposition that is reasonable, forbearing, gracious, and yielding, rather than harsh, rigid, or overly strict. It suggests a willingness to make allowances and to be considerate of others.
* **Meekness (Greek, _praiótēs'_):** This term signifies "gentleness" and, by implication, "humility." It is not weakness or timidity, but rather strength under control—a humble, patient, and submissive spirit that is not easily provoked, retaliatory, or self-assertive. It denotes a quiet, gentle, and humble disposition, particularly in the face of injustice or opposition.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"To speak evil of no man":** This clause issues a direct prohibition against slander, reviling, or defaming anyone. It calls for believers to exercise strict control over their tongue, ensuring that their words are constructive and respectful, rather than destructive or malicious, even when speaking about those who may be difficult or disagreeable.
* **"to be no brawlers":** This command instructs believers to avoid contentious behavior, quarrels, and disputes. It promotes a peaceable disposition, urging Christians to be peacemakers in their interactions and to refrain from instigating or participating in arguments, whether verbal or physical.
* **"but gentle":** This introduces a positive command, contrasting with the preceding prohibitions. Believers are to actively cultivate a "gentle" disposition, characterized by reasonableness, forbearance, and mildness. This virtue enables them to interact with others in a gracious and accommodating manner, rather than with harshness or rigidity.
* **"shewing all meekness unto all men":** This final phrase expands on the positive virtues, emphasizing the active demonstration of "meekness" (strength under control, humility, patience) in every interaction. The phrase "unto all men" underscores the universal scope of this command, indicating that these virtues are to be extended not only to fellow believers but to everyone in society, regardless of their background, status, or attitude towards Christians.

#### Literary Devices
Paul employs **Antithesis** in this verse by contrasting negative commands ("speak evil of no man," "no brawlers") with positive exhortations ("gentle, shewing all meekness"). This rhetorical device effectively highlights the desired Christian character by first identifying what believers should avoid, then clearly articulating the virtues they should embody. The phrase "unto all men" serves as a powerful instance of **Hyperbole** or **Emphasis**, stressing the universal application of these virtues, leaving no room for selective kindness or partiality. The cumulative effect of these commands creates a vivid **Portraiture** of the ideal Christian witness in society, emphasizing both restraint and active benevolence.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Titus 3:2 encapsulates a core aspect of Christian ethics: the outward manifestation of an inward transformation, driven by the grace of God. It underscores that the Gospel not only saves us from sin but also empowers us to live lives that reflect God's character, particularly in our interactions with others. This verse teaches that Christian conduct is a vital component of our witness, demonstrating the reality and beauty of the faith to a watching world. It calls believers to embody the peace and humility of Christ, even in challenging environments, knowing that such a demeanor can disarm hostility and open doors for the Gospel.

* [Romans 12:18](/romans/12-18 "Romans 12:18 - Live Peaceably with All")
* [Philippians 4:5](/philippians/4-5 "Philippians 4:5 - Let Your Gentleness Be Known")
* [James 3:17](/james/3-17 "James 3:17 - Wisdom from Above")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
In a world often characterized by contentious rhetoric, quick judgment, and aggressive posturing, Titus 3:2 serves as a profound and counter-cultural call to action for believers today. It challenges us to critically examine our speech and our disposition, particularly in public discourse, online interactions, and even within our closest relationships. Are we known for our harsh criticisms, our readiness to argue, or our quickness to take offense? Or are we recognized by our measured words, our pursuit of peace, and our gentle, humble spirit? This verse compels us to cultivate a Christ-like demeanor that seeks to build up rather than tear down, to reconcile rather than divide, and to demonstrate grace rather than judgment. Living out these virtues is not a sign of weakness but of spiritual strength, reflecting the very character of the God who showed us "kindness and love" ([Titus 3:4](/titus/3-4 "Titus 3:4 - God's Kindness and Love")).

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what specific areas of my life (online, at work, with family) do I struggle most with "speaking evil" or being a "brawler"?**
* **How can I intentionally cultivate a more "gentle" and "meek" spirit in my daily interactions, especially with those who challenge or provoke me?**
* **What practical steps can I take this week to demonstrate "all meekness unto all men," reflecting Christ's character to those around me?**

### FAQ
**Why is it so important for Christians not to "speak evil" or be "brawlers" towards others, especially non-believers?**

Answer: It is crucial because the conduct of believers serves as a direct testimony to the transforming power of the Gospel. When Christians engage in slander, gossip, or contentious arguments, it undermines their witness and can cause others to dismiss the message of Christ. Conversely, demonstrating peaceable, gentle, and meek behavior, as commanded in [Titus 3:2](/titus/3-2 "Titus 3:2 - Christian Conduct"), provides a compelling and attractive picture of the new life found in Christ, drawing people to inquire about the hope that believers possess ([1 Peter 3:15](/1_peter/3-15 "1 Peter 3:15 - Be Prepared to Give an Answer")). It reflects God's own character of patience and kindness towards humanity, even when we were His enemies ([Romans 5:8](/romans/5-8 "Romans 5:8 - God Demonstrates His Love")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Titus 3:2, though a practical ethical instruction, finds its ultimate fulfillment and deepest meaning in the person and work of Jesus Christ. He is the supreme example of one who "spoke evil of no man" and was "no brawler," even when reviled and unjustly persecuted. As [Isaiah 53:7](/isaiah/53-7 "Isaiah 53:7 - Like a Lamb Led to Slaughter") prophesied, "He was oppressed and He was afflicted, yet He opened not His mouth; like a lamb that is led to the slaughter, and like a sheep that before its shearers is silent, so He opened not His mouth." Jesus perfectly embodied "gentleness" and "meekness," famously inviting the weary to learn from Him, for He was "gentle and lowly in heart" ([Matthew 11:29](/matthew/11-29 "Matthew 11:29 - Take My Yoke Upon You")). His entire earthly ministry, culminating in His sacrificial death on the cross, was an act of profound meekness and self-control, demonstrating God's ultimate patience and love "unto all men" ([John 3:16](/john/3-16 "John 3:16 - God So Loved the World")). Believers are called to emulate this Christ-like character, empowered by the same Spirit who indwelled Him, recognizing that our ability to live out these virtues is a direct result of His transforming grace, which "appeared to all men" ([Titus 2:11](/titus/2-11 "Titus 2:11 - The Grace of God Has Appeared")).

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

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;