Titus 2:7 – “In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
Paul now speaks directly to Titus himself. After telling him how to instruct various groups in the church, Paul reminds Titus that the most powerful teaching comes from example. Paul is saying, “Don’t just tell them how to live-show them.”
“Set them an example by doing what is good” means Titus’s life should be a living model of the kind of behavior he’s encouraging in others. His choices, actions, and attitude should reflect God’s standards. Paul wants Titus to lead with his life as well as his words.
The second part of the verse shifts to Titus’s teaching. It should be marked by “integrity” and “seriousness.” In other words, he shouldn’t water down the truth, try to impress others, or teach casually. His teaching must be honest, pure, and delivered with the weight that God’s Word deserves.
This verse shows that leadership in the church-especially for those who teach-must be grounded in both character and truth.
Historical Context
Titus was a young leader left by Paul in Crete to organize the churches and deal with false teachers (Titus 1:5, 10). He had a big task in a challenging culture. Crete was known for dishonesty, laziness, and moral corruption (Titus 1:12), and the young churches were vulnerable.
False teachers were not only spreading lies but also behaving in ungodly ways, using their influence for personal gain. That’s why Paul tells Titus to be different. His life and teaching needed to shine as a clear contrast to the chaos around him.
For a young leader like Titus, this meant living with purpose, consistency, and integrity-not only for his own sake but for the health and witness of the whole church.
Theological Implications
This verse teaches that sound doctrine must be backed by a godly life. Good teaching is not just about content-it’s also about the character of the teacher. If someone teaches truth but lives in hypocrisy, their message loses credibility.
Paul also shows that leadership in the church carries a sacred responsibility. Teaching God’s Word requires not just knowledge but a heart that fears God, respects the truth, and cares about others.
It also reminds us that good works don’t save us, but they do confirm that we belong to Christ. When leaders live godly lives, they reflect the transforming power of the gospel they preach.
Literary Analysis
The verse begins with the phrase “In everything,” showing the wide scope of Paul’s command. Titus wasn’t to set an example only in public or when people were watching. His whole life-his actions, choices, and even his private habits-was to be shaped by doing what is good.
The two qualities tied to his teaching-integrity and seriousness-are moral and emotional. Integrity speaks to honesty, purity, and consistency. Seriousness doesn’t mean being somber, but it does mean taking God’s truth seriously, with care and humility.
This verse, like others in Titus 2, is short and clear, reflecting Paul’s practical and urgent tone.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- 1 Timothy 4:12 – “Set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity.”
- 2 Timothy 2:15 – “Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved… who correctly handles the word of truth.”
- James 3:1 – Warns that teachers will be judged more strictly.
- Matthew 5:16 – Jesus says, “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”
- Philippians 2:14-15 – Encourages believers to be “blameless and pure,” shining like stars in a dark world.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
Whether or not we’re pastors or teachers, this verse applies to anyone who wants to influence others for Christ. People are watching-not just what we say, but how we live. Our example matters.
For those who teach the Bible-whether in a church, small group, youth ministry, or even in the home-this verse is a call to take that role seriously. God’s Word deserves to be handled with integrity, and our lives should match the message we preach.
This also encourages all believers to seek mentors who not only know the truth but live it out. True spiritual leadership is seen not just in words, but in a life shaped by love, humility, and goodness.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God is a loving Father who not only speaks truth but also models it. He didn’t just send us commands from heaven-He came down in Jesus to show us how to live. In the same way, God calls His people-especially leaders-to live in a way that reflects His heart.
He knows we learn best when truth is paired with example. That’s why His design for leadership always includes personal character. His love is seen in how He holds leaders accountable-not to burden them, but to protect His people and point them to Himself.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus is the ultimate example of doing what is good. His entire life was full of grace, truth, and righteousness. He taught with authority, and His life backed up every word He spoke (John 8:46).
He was pure in motive, serious about the things of God, and completely committed to the truth-even when it cost Him His life. In John 13:15, Jesus says, “I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.”
Through Jesus, we are not only forgiven, but we are also given the strength to live differently. His Spirit helps us live lives of integrity and purpose, so our example can point others to Him.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- What does it mean to “do what is good” in your daily life and decisions?
- Why is it important for those who teach or lead to live with integrity and seriousness?
- Who in your life has set a strong example of godly living? What have you learned from them?
- In what ways does your life reflect or contradict the message you believe?
- How can you grow in being an example to others-at home, at work, in church, or in your community?