Titus 3:13

Titus 3:13 concludes Paul's practical instructions to Titus, his apostolic delegate on the island of Crete. This verse is a concise, yet significant, directive concerning two traveling companions, Zenas and Apollos, emphasizing the importance of Christian hospitality and support for those engaged in ministry.

Context

This verse comes at the end of Paul's letter to Titus, following theological exposition on salvation by grace and practical exhortations regarding Christian conduct. The letter emphasizes the importance of good works as a fruit of genuine faith, a theme reinforced by this instruction to care for fellow workers. Paul is giving Titus final administrative and personal requests, including instructions about the immediate needs of those who serve the Lord.

Key Figures

• Zenas the Lawyer: Zenas is mentioned only here in the New Testament. His designation as "the lawyer" (Greek: nomikos) suggests he was an expert in either Jewish Mosaic Law or Roman civil law, or perhaps both. His legal background might have made him particularly useful in teaching or disputing, or perhaps he was a Christian who formerly practiced law.
• Apollos: In contrast to Zenas, Apollos is a well-known and significant figure in the early church. He was a prominent, eloquent, and learned teacher from Alexandria, initially instructed in the way of the Lord by Priscilla and Aquila (Acts 18:24-28). He played a crucial role in Corinth and was highly regarded by believers, though Paul later addressed issues of division related to preferences for different teachers, including Apollos (1 Corinthians 3:4-6).

Key Themes

• Christian Hospitality: The command to "bring... on their journey diligently" highlights the early church's practice of providing practical support for traveling ministers and fellow believers. This was a foundational principle of Christian life, demonstrating love and fellowship (Romans 12:13, Hebrews 13:2).
• Support for Ministry: Paul's instruction underscores the necessity of supporting those who dedicate their lives to spreading the Gospel and teaching sound doctrine. Such support ensures that ministers "want nothing," allowing them to focus on their spiritual tasks without being hindered by material needs (1 Corinthians 9:14). Paul himself often relied on the generosity of believers.
• Diligence in Service: The word "diligently" (Greek: spoudaiōs) emphasizes earnestness, zeal, and careful attention. It's not just about providing for their needs, but doing so with enthusiasm and thoroughness, ensuring all requirements for their journey are met.

Linguistic Insight

The Greek word for "diligently" is spoudaiōs (σπουδαίως), meaning "with haste," "eagerly," "earnestly," or "carefully." It implies an active, zealous effort to ensure the needs of Zenas and Apollos are fully met, not merely a passive provision. This word carries the same root as spoudē, which often denotes zeal or earnestness, such as in 2 Timothy 2:15 ("study to shew thyself approved unto God," where "study" implies diligence).

Practical Application

This verse serves as a timeless reminder for believers regarding their role in supporting God's work. It encourages us to:

• Practice Hospitality: Be open and welcoming to fellow believers, especially those traveling or in need.
• Support Ministers: Actively and generously provide for the material needs of pastors, missionaries, and Christian workers, enabling them to fulfill their calling without undue burden.
• Serve Diligently: Whatever task we undertake for the Lord or for fellow believers, we should do it with earnestness and thoroughness, ensuring that the needs are truly met. This reflects a heart of love and genuine care.