Titus 3

1 Remind them to follow what rulers tell them to do, and to obey authorities. They should always be ready to do what is good.

Remind them to be in subjection to rulers and to authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good work,

2 They should not speak badly about anyone, and they should not be argumentative. Tell them to show gentleness and kindness to everyone.

to speak evil of no one, not to be contentious, to be gentle, showing all humility toward all men.

3 For there was a time when we too were foolish and disobedient. We were deceived and slaves to various desires and pleasures. We lived wicked lives full of jealousy, hateful people hating one another.

For we were also once foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving various lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another.

4 But when the goodness and love of God our Savior was revealed, he saved us,

But when the kindness of God our Savior and his love toward mankind appeared,

5 not because of anything good that we've done, but because of his mercy. He did this through the cleansing of rebirth and renewal of the Holy Spirit,

not by works of righteousness which we did ourselves, but according to his mercy, he saved us through the washing of regeneration and renewing by the Holy Spirit,

6 which he poured out on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Savior.

whom he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior;

7 Now that we are set right by his grace we have become heirs having the hope of eternal life. (aiōnios g166)

that being justified by his grace, we might be made heirs according to the hope of the consummate (aiōnios g166) life.

8 You can trust what I'm saying, and I want you to emphasize these instructions so that those who trust in God will think seriously about them and continue to do good. They are excellent and helpful for everyone.

This saying is faithful, and concerning these things I desire that you insist confidently, so that those who have believed God may be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable to men;

9 Avoid pointless discussions, and obsessions about ancestry. Don't get into arguments, and avoid fights over the Jewish laws—they're useless and don't help at all.

but shun foolish questionings, genealogies, strife, and disputes about the law; for they are unprofitable and vain.

10 Warn someone who is divisive once, and then again—after that don't pay them any attention,

Avoid a factious man after a first and second warning,

11 realizing that they're perverse and sinful and have condemned themselves.

knowing that such a one is perverted and sinful, being self-condemned.

12 As soon as I send Artemas or Tychicus to you, try and come to me at Nicopolis because I'm planning to spend the winter there.

When I send Artemas to you, or Tychicus, be diligent to come to me to Nicopolis, for I have determined to winter there.

13 Do all you can to help Zenas the lawyer and Apollos on their way so that they have everything they need.

Send Zenas the lawyer and Apollos on their journey speedily, that nothing may be lacking for them.

14 May our people learn the habit of doing good in providing for the daily needs of others. They need to be productive!

Let our people also learn to maintain good works to meet necessary needs, that they may not be unfruitful.

15 Everyone here with me sends their greetings. Give our best wishes to those who love us, those who trust in God. May grace be with you all.

All who are with me greet you. Greet those who love us in faith. Grace be with you all. Amen.