What does Titus 3:11 mean?

Knowing that he that is such is subverted, and sinneth, being condemned of himself. Titus 3:11

Explanation

Titus 3:11, “Knowing that he that is such is subverted, and sinneth, being condemned of himself,” addresses the issue of a person who persists in false teaching or divisive behavior. The verse suggests that such an individual is warped (“subverted” in the KJV), which implies a turning away from the truth. This person continues to sin and is found guilty by their own actions and conscience. Essentially, this verse is a warning about the inward decay that occurs when someone is resistant to correction and persists in sinful behavior, leading to self-condemnation.

Historical Context

The Epistle to Titus was written by the Apostle Paul, who addressed Titus as he was overseeing the churches on the island of Crete. The letter intends to guide Titus in dealing with various church-related issues, including the setting up of church leadership and the handling of false teachings and divisive people. During that time, the early Christian churches faced challenges from false teachers who introduced heresies and Jewish legalistic customs, which threatened the purity of the Christian doctrine and the unity of the believers.

Theological Insights

From a theological standpoint, this verse underlines the concepts of personal accountability, the seriousness of heresy, and the inward condition of the heart. In Reformed theology, it illustrates the depravity of man and the need for grace. In Arminian thought, it highlights the importance of free will and the potential consequence of choosing to persist in sin. In Catholic theology, it might be seen as a call to personal examination and penance, recognizing one’s sins and the need for reconciliation with the Church and God.

Practical Applications

Practically, this verse serves as a caution to individuals in positions of influence within the faith community. It encourages self-reflection and acknowledgment of one’s faults before they lead to moral and spiritual ruin. Believers are reminded to avoid the entrapment of false teachings and to remain humble, always open to correction. It also suggests that individuals should be wary of the company they keep, as persistent association with divisive people can be detrimental to one’s faith journey.

Cross-References

• Romans 2:15 – “Which shew the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness, and their thoughts the mean while accusing or else excusing one another;”
• 2 Peter 2:14 – “Having eyes full of adultery, and that cannot cease from sin; beguiling unstable souls: an heart they have exercised with covetous practices; cursed children:”
• 1 Timothy 1:19-20 – “Holding faith, and a good conscience; which some having put away concerning faith have made shipwreck: Of whom is Hymenaeus and Alexander; whom I have delivered unto Satan, that they may learn not to blaspheme.”

Language Study

Key words in Titus 3:11 include:

• “Subverted” (from the Greek “ekstrepho”): to turn inside out, to twist, to pervert, or overturn.
• “Sinneth” (from the Greek “hamartano”): to miss the mark, to err, or to do wrong.
• “Condemned” (from the Greek “kataginosko”): to know against oneself, to pronounce judgment against. These words indicate a strong denouncement of the individual’s actions as contrary not only to Christian teaching but also to the internal moral compass.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In the context of other ancient cultural and religious beliefs, the idea of self-condemnation can be seen in various ethical and philosophical systems. For example, in Stoicism, there is an emphasis on living in accordance with nature and reason, suggesting that one’s conscience and actions are aligned with a natural moral order. This verse in Titus shares a thematic similarity by emphasizing that going against the truth leads to an internal state of self-condemnation and moral corruption.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific perspective, there is interest in understanding the psychological processes behind self-condemnation and moral awareness. Cognitive dissonance theory, for example, explains how holding conflicting thoughts, beliefs, or attitudes can lead to psychological discomfort, which could align with the turmoil described in this verse. Behavioral psychology also considers the impact of persistent negative behaviors on one’s psyche and social relationships.

commentaries

Commentators such as John Calvin and Matthew Henry have offered insights into this verse. Calvin emphasizes the importance of avoiding quarrels about the law and unnecessary contentions, stating that such debates lead to ruin. Matthew Henry comments on the nature of heretics and divisive people, noting that their sin carries its own testimony against them, which exemplifies the inner conflict and self-condemnation referenced in the verse. Contemporary biblical scholars focus on the pastoral implications of the verse, warning church leaders about the dangers of doctrinal purity without love and the consequences of unchecked sinfulness.