In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine shewing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity,

TITUS 2:7KJV
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Titus 2:7 (KJV)

What does Titus 2:7 mean?

Titus 2:7 urges Titus to be an example in every way by doing good works and teaching with integrity, seriousness, and honesty. The verse highlights that both actions and teaching should be above reproach, showing others what it looks like to live out the faith.

Paul is writing to Titus, a young church leader on the island of Crete, instructing him on how to guide others. Paul emphasizes that Titus’s own life and teaching should set a visible standard for the community, especially since he is responsible for teaching others how to live as Christians. The verse stresses that character and conduct are just as important as correct teaching.

The Greek behind Titus 2:7

  • "Pattern" (τύπος, typos): This word means a model, example, or pattern. Paul is telling Titus to be a living example that others can follow, not just in words but in daily behavior.
  • "Uncorruptness" (ἀφθορία, aphthoria): This word carries the sense of purity or being free from corruption. Paul wants Titus’s teaching to be untainted by error or bad motives, emphasizing the importance of teaching that is trustworthy and pure.
  • "Gravity" (σεμνότης, semnotēs): This word means seriousness or dignity. Paul is highlighting that Titus’s teaching should be marked by a sense of respect and weight, not treated lightly or carelessly.
  • "Sincerity" (ἀφθαρσία, aphtharsia): This word is often understood as incorruptibility or genuineness. Paul is urging Titus to be honest and authentic, both in his actions and his teaching.

Why Titus 2:7 matters

  • Titus 2:7 clarifies that Christian leadership is not just about what is taught, but also about how leaders live; the example set is as important as the content of teaching.
  • The verse helps prevent misunderstandings that faith is only about belief or doctrine; it shows that visible good works and personal integrity are essential.
  • In the wider context, this verse connects to Paul’s instructions for different groups in the church, showing that leaders must model the qualities they are encouraging in others.

Where else these words appear

“gravity” Greek G4587 · used in 3 verses

  • 1 Timothy 2:2 For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.
  • 1 Timothy 3:4 One that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity;

“sincerity” Greek G861 · used in 8 verses

  • Romans 2:7 To them who by patient continuance in well doing seek for glory and honour and immortality, eternal life:
  • 1 Corinthians 15:50 Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption.
  • 1 Corinthians 15:54 So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory.

“pattern” Greek G5179 · used in 15 verses

  • John 20:25 The other disciples therefore said unto him, We have seen the Lord. But he said unto them, Except I shall see in his hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and thrust my hand into his side, I will not believe.
  • Romans 5:14 Nevertheless death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over them that had not sinned after the similitude of Adam's transgression, who is the figure of him that was to come.
  • 1 Thessalonians 1:7 So that ye were ensamples to all that believe in Macedonia and Achaia.

“shewing” Greek G3930 · used in 16 verses

  • Matthew 26:10 When Jesus understood it, he said unto them, Why trouble ye the woman? for she hath wrought a good work upon me.
  • Luke 18:5 Yet because this widow troubleth me, I will avenge her, lest by her continual coming she weary me.
  • Acts 28:2 And the barbarous people shewed us no little kindness: for they kindled a fire, and received us every one, because of the present rain, and because of the cold.