Titus 2:15 – “These, then, are the things you should teach. Encourage and rebuke with all authority. Do not let anyone despise you.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
This verse brings Paul’s teaching in Titus chapter 2 to a strong conclusion. After giving detailed instructions on how different groups within the church should live-older men, older women, young women, young men, and even slaves-Paul tells Titus to teach these things. What things? The truths about godly living, the grace of God, the return of Christ, and what Jesus has done to redeem and purify a people for Himself.
Paul then gives Titus three clear instructions:
- Encourage – Build people up with truth. Remind them of God’s grace and help them grow in their faith.
- Rebuke – Correct those who are going the wrong way. This isn’t about harshness, but about loving confrontation when someone strays from what is right.
- With all authority – Titus was not to waver in doing this. His authority didn’t come from his personality or age-it came from the Word of God and from his calling as a teacher of the truth.
Paul ends with a bold command: Do not let anyone despise you. Titus may have been younger or may have faced opposition, but he was not to shrink back. He was called to lead with courage, grounded in the truth of God’s Word.
Historical Context
Titus was leading churches on the island of Crete-a place known for moral chaos and dishonesty (Titus 1:12). He was likely facing pushback from false teachers, cultural pressure, and perhaps even resistance from within the church. It would have been easy for him to feel discouraged or tempted to soften the message.
Paul reminds him that his authority doesn’t rest on personal strength or popularity but on the truth of the gospel. Titus was to stand firm, teach clearly, and not be intimidated by those who might try to undermine him or dismiss him.
This was especially important in a new church setting. The foundation being laid needed to be strong and faithful to the truth, or the church would drift quickly into error or compromise.
Theological Implications
This verse reminds us that Christian teaching must be rooted in truth and carried out with courage. It’s not just about sharing nice ideas-it’s about proclaiming what God has said and calling people to live by it.
It also shows that encouragement and correction are both necessary. We can’t just comfort people without also confronting sin. Nor can we rebuke without love and hope. Both are part of faithful Christian leadership.
Finally, this verse reminds us that spiritual authority is real. Titus wasn’t told to seek approval-he was told to stand on the truth and speak it boldly, whether people liked it or not.
Literary Analysis
This verse closes a major section of the letter. Paul uses direct and commanding language: teach, encourage, rebuke, do not let. These are action words, given to a leader who needs to act decisively and faithfully.
The phrase “with all authority” stands out. It underlines the weight behind Titus’s teaching. Paul doesn’t suggest being timid or half-hearted. The truth must be spoken clearly and confidently, because it comes from God.
The final line-“Do not let anyone despise you”-is both personal and pastoral. It’s Paul urging Titus not to let others’ opinions silence him. God had called him, and that calling came with both responsibility and strength.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- 1 Timothy 4:12 – “Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example…”
- 2 Timothy 4:2 – “Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage…”
- Galatians 1:10 – Paul reminds us not to seek the approval of people, but of God.
- Matthew 28:18-20 – Jesus gives authority to His followers to teach and disciple in His name.
- Acts 20:27 – Paul says he did not hesitate to proclaim the whole will of God.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
This verse is a reminder that all Christians-especially those who teach, lead, or disciple others-need to speak the truth with both love and courage. The message of the gospel is too important to water down or keep quiet.
It’s also a call to stand firm in the face of opposition. Whether you’re a pastor, a parent, a teacher, or simply a follower of Christ in the workplace, you will face pressure to compromise or stay silent. But God calls us to speak clearly and confidently, grounded in His Word.
And it’s not just about pointing out what’s wrong. We’re also called to encourage others, to lift them up, and to keep reminding them of who God is and what He has done.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God loves His people enough to speak truth into their lives-even when it’s hard to hear. He raises up leaders, teachers, and fellow believers who will not only comfort but also correct when needed.
This verse shows that God doesn’t want His people to remain confused or trapped in sin. His love leads to teaching, encouragement, and sometimes rebuke-all with the goal of helping us grow and live in His grace.
A loving God doesn’t stay silent. He gives His Word and empowers His people to speak it boldly and with care.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus is the perfect example of someone who taught with authority, encouraged the weary, and rebuked sin-all out of love. He never spoke to please people-He spoke to reveal the truth and point people to God.
In John 7:46, even those who opposed Him said, “No one ever spoke the way this man does.” Jesus spoke with power, compassion, and clarity.
And before returning to heaven, Jesus gave His followers the authority to teach in His name (Matthew 28:18-20). That same calling continues today. When we speak the truth of Christ, we do so with His authority and His heart.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Are you more comfortable encouraging others or confronting what’s wrong? Why?
- What gives you confidence to speak truth, even when it’s unpopular?
- How do you balance love and truth in your conversations with others?
- In what areas of your life might God be calling you to speak more boldly?
- How can you support your church leaders and teachers who are called to teach, encourage, and rebuke?