Titus 2:15 (KJV)

What does Titus 2:15 mean?

Titus 2:15 instructs Titus to confidently teach, encourage, and correct others using the authority he has been given, and not to let anyone look down on him or disregard his role. The verse emphasizes that Titus should carry out these responsibilities boldly and without hesitation.

Paul, the apostle, is writing to Titus, a younger church leader on the island of Crete. Paul urges Titus to speak about the teachings he has just outlined, to encourage people to follow them, and to correct those who stray, all with full authority. The verse closes by telling Titus not to let anyone undermine his position or message.

The Greek behind Titus 2:15

• "speak" (λαλέω, laleō): This word means to talk or proclaim. Here, it suggests Titus should openly communicate the teachings Paul has given.
• "exhort" (παρακαλέω, parakaleō): This word often means to encourage, urge, or comfort. Paul wants Titus to motivate people positively, not just instruct them.
• "rebuke" (ἐλέγχω, elegchō): This means to correct or point out faults. Titus is to address errors directly when needed.
• "authority" (ἐπιταγή, epitagē): This word refers to a command or mandate. Paul is stressing that Titus’s authority comes from God’s command, not just personal opinion.
• "Let...despise" (περιφρονέω, periphroneō): This means to look down on or disregard. Paul is telling Titus not to allow anyone to dismiss his leadership or message.

Why Titus 2:15 matters

• Titus 2:15 clarifies that church leaders are expected to teach and correct with confidence, not timidly or with uncertainty.
• The verse shows that the authority to teach comes from God’s command, not from personal status or popularity, which would have been important for a young leader like Titus.
• This verse connects to the rest of Titus 2 by showing that the practical instructions Paul gives are not just suggestions, but commands to be taken seriously and taught with conviction.