What does Titus 2:10 mean?

Not purloining, but shewing all good fidelity; that they may adorn the doctrine of God our Saviour in all things. Titus 2:10

Explanation

[Not purloining, but showing all good fidelity; that they may adorn the doctrine of God our Saviour in all things.] (Titus 2:10) is a verse found in the New Testament that instructs servants to be honest and trustworthy in their work. The term “purloining” means stealing or taking something dishonestly; thus servants are directed not to steal from their masters. The phrase “showing all good fidelity” emphasizes the importance of faithfulness and loyalty in one’s service, implying that one should go above and beyond in their duties.

The latter part of the verse, “that they may adorn the doctrine of God our Saviour in all things,” suggests that by displaying integrity and faithfulness, servants will make the teachings of Christianity attractive and commendable to others. The behavior of the servants, therefore, becomes a form of evangelism where their lives exemplify the transformative power of the gospel message.

Historical Context

Titus 2:10 was written by the Apostle Paul to Titus, his fellow worker, who was left on the island of Crete to help organize the church and appoint elders. Cretan society, like much of the ancient world, was organized around a social structure that included household servants or slaves. Paul’s instructions would have been counter-cultural at the time, as servants were often treated poorly and theft by servants was a common occurrence.

Paul’s letters often addressed practical matters of Christian living within the societal norms of the day. By instructing servants in this way, Paul was advocating for a radical change in behavior that would reflect well not just on themselves but on the Christian faith they professed.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, this verse suggests that every aspect of a Christian’s life—regardless of their social or economic status—matters to God and is an opportunity to witness to the transformative power of the gospel. The verse also speaks to the universal call of God’s people to moral excellence, not as a means to earn salvation (which is by grace through faith), but as an outpouring of thankfulness and evidence of a transformed life.

Practical Applications

The principles laid out in Titus 2:10 can be applied to any work situation today. Though the immediate context speaks to servants, the broader application is that all employees should perform their duties with integrity and loyalty. In doing so, they set an example that can enhance the reputation of Christians and therefore give credibility to their faith. Faith in Christ should manifest in ethical behavior that stands out from dishonest and unfaithful practices.

Cross-References

• Ephesians 6:5-7: “Servants, be obedient to them that are your masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in singleness of your heart, as unto Christ;”
• Colossians 3:22-24: “Servants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh; not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but in singleness of heart, fearing God;”
• 1 Timothy 6:1-2: “Let as many servants as are under the yoke count their own masters worthy of all honour, that the name of God and his doctrine be not blasphemed.”

Language Study

• “Purloining” (Greek: “nosphizomai”) means to set aside for oneself, to steal, or to embezzle. It is a verb that implies secretive or dishonest taking of property that does not belong to you.
• “Showing” (Greek: “endeiknumi”) means to exhibit or prove. It implies actively demonstrating something.
• “Good fidelity” (Greek: “agathēn pistin”) means faithfulness or trustworthiness.
• “Doctrine” (Greek: “didaskalia”) refers to teaching or instruction.
• “Adorn” (Greek: “kosmeō”) means to arrange, decorate, or put in order. The implication is that one’s behavior can make the teachings of God attractive and commendable.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In various ancient cultures, slaves and servants were often viewed as property with few rights. Paul’s instruction would have stood in stark contrast to this, suggesting a mutual humanity and dignity that undergirds all Christian relationships, which was a novel concept at the time. Comparing this to other religious interpretations, such as in Stoicism there was also a call for moral integrity; however, it was not typically rooted in the adornment of religious doctrine but rather in self-mastery and virtue for its own sake.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific viewpoint, studies in ethics and sociology may reflect on the role that moral behavior in work settings plays in social cohesion and trust. Integrity at work, as promoted by Titus 2:10, can lead to better workplace environments and potentially improve business outcomes. While the scientific perspective does not address the theological reasons for the behavior, it may acknowledge the social benefits of such ethical conduct.

Commentaries

Biblical scholars and theologians have offered various insights on Titus 2:10. Many agree that Paul’s directive here is critical in considering the social witness of the early Christian community. Some commentaries may focus on how the verse upends societal norms, while others may emphasize the reflection of the gospel in everyday life.

Matthew Henry’s Commentary, for example, speaks to the impact that the honest and faithful service of believers can have in making the gospel appealing and in not giving any occasion to the enemies of religion to reproach it. The Expositor’s Bible Commentary would further examine the role of the Christian ethic in the public sphere. Many agree that this teaching, while given to a specific social group, has broad applications for all believers in terms of work ethic and testimony.