This witness is true. Wherefore rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith;

TITUS 1:13KJV
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Titus 1:13 (KJV)

What does Titus 1:13 mean?

Titus 1:13 says that the testimony about certain people’s problems is accurate, so Paul tells Titus to correct them strongly so they can have a healthy, genuine faith. The verse emphasizes the need for honest correction to help people stay true and strong in what they believe.

Paul is writing to Titus, who is leading new churches on the island of Crete. Paul has just quoted a saying about the Cretans’ reputation and now confirms that this criticism is true. He urges Titus to rebuke those causing trouble, not out of harshness, but so that their faith can be restored and made solid.

The Greek behind Titus 1:13

  • "Rebuke" (ἐλέγχω, elenchō) means to correct or expose wrongdoing. In this context, it suggests a direct and clear confrontation, not just a gentle suggestion.
  • "Sharply" (ἀποτόμως, apotomōs) carries the sense of being firm or even severe. Paul is not asking for mild correction, but for Titus to be clear and decisive so the issue is addressed seriously.
  • "Sound" (ὑγιαίνω, hygiainō) is often used for health and here means being healthy or whole in faith. Paul’s goal is not punishment, but to bring these people back to spiritual health.

Why Titus 1:13 matters

  • This verse clarifies that correction in the church is meant to help, not just to criticize or exclude. The aim is restoration and health in faith.
  • Paul’s instruction to Titus shows that leaders sometimes need to be direct for the good of the community, especially when truth and faith are at risk.
  • The verse connects to the larger theme in Titus of building strong, healthy churches by addressing problems honestly and with the goal of growth.

Where else these words appear

“sharply” Greek G664 · used in 2 verses

  • 2 Corinthians 13:10 Therefore I write these things being absent, lest being present I should use sharpness, according to the power which the Lord hath given me to edification, and not to destruction.

“sound” Greek G5198 · used in 12 verses

  • Luke 5:31 And Jesus answering said unto them, They that are whole need not a physician; but they that are sick.
  • 1 Timothy 1:10 For whoremongers, for them that defile themselves with mankind, for menstealers, for liars, for perjured persons, and if there be any other thing that is contrary to sound doctrine;
  • Titus 1:9 Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers.

“rebuke” Greek G1651 · used in 17 verses

  • Matthew 18:15 Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother.
  • John 16:8 And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment:
  • 2 Timothy 4:2 Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.

“Wherefore” Greek G156 · used in 20 verses

  • Matthew 19:3 The Pharisees also came unto him, tempting him, and saying unto him, Is it lawful for a man to put away his wife for every cause?
  • John 19:4 Pilate therefore went forth again, and saith unto them, Behold, I bring him forth to you, that ye may know that I find no fault in him.
  • Acts 25:18 Against whom when the accusers stood up, they brought none accusation of such things as I supposed: