Titus 3:13 – “Do everything you can to help Zenas the lawyer and Apollos on their way and see that they have everything they need.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
Titus 3:13 may sound like a simple instruction to help some traveling companions, but it gives us a powerful glimpse into how the early church functioned-and how believers should care for one another. Paul is telling Titus to make sure that Zenas and Apollos are well-supported in their journey. This isn’t just a friendly suggestion-it’s a call to active generosity and hospitality.
The phrase “do everything you can” shows urgency and intentionality. Titus is not to do the bare minimum. He’s to go out of his way to ensure these men have what they need. Whether it’s food, supplies, money, or a place to rest, Paul wants them cared for so they can continue their ministry without delay or burden.
This verse shows how the church should function as a family-supporting, equipping, and sending one another out with joy and provision.
Historical Context
In the first century, missionaries and church leaders often traveled from town to town, preaching the Gospel and strengthening the churches. But they depended on the hospitality and generosity of local believers to sustain their journey. Inns were scarce and often unsafe or immoral. So when Paul tells Titus to assist Zenas and Apollos, he’s encouraging him to live out the common Christian practice of supporting the work of others through practical help.
Zenas is likely a Jewish believer with a background in law (either civil or Jewish), and Apollos is well known from other parts of Scripture as a strong and gifted teacher of the Word (Acts 18:24–28). Their journey would have been for ministry, and Paul trusted Titus to supply what was needed.
Theological Implications
This verse teaches that the work of ministry is not meant to be done alone. It takes the support of the whole church-not just those who preach, but those who give, serve, and help in countless ways behind the scenes. God’s design is for the body of Christ to work together, with each member contributing to the mission.
It also reminds us that giving to support God’s work is a spiritual responsibility. It’s not just charity-it’s participation in the Gospel. When we support those who teach, share the Gospel, or serve, we are sharing in the eternal work they are doing.
Literary Analysis
The tone of this verse is warm and instructive. “Do everything you can” emphasizes personal responsibility. Paul doesn’t say “if you can,” or “if it’s convenient.” He calls for full effort.
The names “Zenas the lawyer” and “Apollos” give a personal touch. Paul often names specific people in his letters, showing that ministry isn’t just about ideas-it’s about real people working together in the service of Christ.
The phrase “see that they have everything they need” shows the goal: not partial help, but full provision. The church is to make sure that these workers are not hindered in their calling due to lack.
Biblical Cross-References
- Romans 12:13 – “Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.”
- 3 John 5–8 – Commends believers for showing hospitality to traveling teachers and says, “We ought therefore to show hospitality to such people so that we may work together for the truth.”
- Acts 18:24–28 – Describes Apollos’ ministry, including his bold preaching and his help to the believers in Achaia.
- Philippians 4:15–17 – Paul thanks the church for supporting his ministry financially and spiritually.
- Hebrews 13:2 – “Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it.”
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s believer, this verse is a clear call to action: be generous, be helpful, and take care of those who serve God. Whether it’s missionaries, pastors, Christian workers, or church volunteers, we should do our best to make sure they are encouraged, supported, and not lacking in the basics of life.
We might not host traveling preachers the way the early church did, but we can give, host, pray for, and care for those God has placed around us. The command is simple-do everything you can.
It also encourages us to see our giving and service not as extra, but as essential to the life of the church. When we give joyfully and meet needs, we are part of something much bigger than ourselves.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God is generous. He gives without holding back. He provides for His people and invites them to be part of His work. When we care for others, we are reflecting the heart of a loving God who never leaves His servants lacking.
This verse reminds us that God often meets needs through people. Just as He used Titus to provide for Zenas and Apollos, He uses us to bless and strengthen others today. That’s how His love spreads-not only through words, but through action.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus said in Matthew 10:40–42 that anyone who welcomes and supports one of His messengers is welcoming Him. Even giving a cup of cold water in His name will not go unnoticed. Jesus connects the act of caring for His people with caring for Him directly.
He Himself was supported during His earthly ministry by others who provided for His needs (Luke 8:1–3). After His resurrection, He commissioned His followers to go into the world-and that mission continues today. When we support that work, we are honoring Jesus and sharing in His purpose.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Who has God placed in your life that may need support, encouragement, or help in their ministry?
- Are you doing everything you can to help others continue in the work God has called them to do?
- What are some practical ways you can support missionaries, pastors, or church workers?
- How does generosity reflect the heart of God?
- How can you grow in being a partner in the Gospel-not just through words, but through action?