Put them in mind to be subject to principalities and powers, to obey magistrates, to be ready to every good work,

TITUS 3:1KJV
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Titus 3:1 (KJV)

What does Titus 3:1 mean?

Titus 3:1 tells believers to remember to respect and obey those in authority, such as rulers and officials, and to always be prepared to do what is good. This verse emphasizes the importance of living as responsible citizens and being ready to do good in society.

Paul is writing to Titus, a church leader on the island of Crete, giving him instructions on how to guide the Christian community. In this verse, Paul highlights the need for Christians to have a respectful attitude toward government authorities and to be eager to contribute positively to their communities. The focus is on practical, everyday conduct that reflects well on their faith.

The Greek behind Titus 3:1

  • The word "subject" comes from ὑποτάσσω (hypotassō), which means to place oneself under the authority of someone else. This word suggests a willing and respectful attitude, not just outward compliance.
  • "Principalities" is ἀρχαί (archai), often referring to those who hold the highest positions of authority or leadership. In this context, it points to government rulers.
  • "Powers" is ἐξουσίαι (exousiai), a word for those who have the right or ability to exercise authority, such as officials or magistrates.
  • "Ready" is ἕτοιμος (hetoimos), meaning prepared or willing. Paul is urging believers to be alert and eager to do good works, not just passively waiting for opportunities.

Why Titus 3:1 matters

  • Titus 3:1 clears up the idea that faith is only about personal beliefs by showing that Christian living also involves responsible behavior in society.
  • This verse highlights that respect for authority and readiness to do good are not just private virtues but public responsibilities for believers.
  • It connects to the wider passage by setting the tone for the rest of the chapter, which continues to describe how Christians should live in a way that benefits others and brings honor to their faith.

Where else these words appear

“magistrates” Greek G3980 · used in 4 verses

  • Acts 5:29 Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men.
  • Acts 5:32 And we are his witnesses of these things; and so is also the Holy Ghost, whom God hath given to them that obey him.
  • Acts 27:21 But after long abstinence Paul stood forth in the midst of them, and said, Sirs, ye should have hearkened unto me, and not have loosed from Crete, and to have gained this harm and loss.

“Put” Greek G5279 · used in 7 verses

  • Luke 22:61 And the Lord turned, and looked upon Peter. And Peter remembered the word of the Lord, how he had said unto him, Before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice.
  • 2 Timothy 2:14 Of these things put them in remembrance, charging them before the Lord that they strive not about words to no profit, but to the subverting of the hearers.
  • 3 John 1:10 Wherefore, if I come, I will remember his deeds which he doeth, prating against us with malicious words: and not content therewith, neither doth he himself receive the brethren, and forbiddeth them that would, and casteth them out of the church.

“ready” Greek G2092 · used in 17 verses

  • Matthew 22:4 Again, he sent forth other servants, saying, Tell them which are bidden, Behold, I have prepared my dinner: my oxen and my fatlings are killed, and all things are ready: come unto the marriage.
  • Luke 12:40 Be ye therefore ready also: for the Son of man cometh at an hour when ye think not.
  • Acts 23:21 But do not thou yield unto them: for there lie in wait for him of them more than forty men, which have bound themselves with an oath, that they will neither eat nor drink till they have killed him: and now are they ready, looking for a promise from thee.

“subject” Greek G5293 · used in 32 verses

  • Luke 2:51 And he went down with them, and came to Nazareth, and was subject unto them: but his mother kept all these sayings in her heart.
  • 1 Corinthians 15:27 For he hath put all things under his feet. But when he saith all things are put under him, it is manifest that he is excepted, which did put all things under him.
  • Titus 2:9 Exhort servants to be obedient unto their own masters, and to please them well in all things; not answering again;