Titus 3:3 – “At one time we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
Titus 3:3 is a humbling reminder of what life looked like before we came to know God. Paul is writing to Titus, reminding him-and the believers he leads-that none of us started off good. Paul doesn’t separate himself from the group either; he says “we too,” including himself. This verse is honest about human nature. Before we are changed by God, we are lost-living selfishly, following our own desires, and stuck in patterns of sin.
The verse lists several traits: foolishness (lack of spiritual understanding), disobedience (willful rebellion), being deceived (believing lies instead of truth), and being enslaved by passions and pleasures (controlled by impulses). It then moves to how this affects relationships: malice (ill will), envy (resenting others), and hate. In short, it paints a picture of what life is like when people are separated from God. It’s not just about doing wrong-it’s about being broken, inside and out.
Historical Context
Crete, where Titus was serving, was a culture known for corruption, immorality, and deceit. Paul had already mentioned in chapter 1 that even one of their own prophets called the people “liars, evil brutes, lazy gluttons.” That’s the kind of environment the early Christians came out of-and were still living in. Paul’s point isn’t to condemn them for their past, but to remind them where they came from so they wouldn’t look down on others still living in sin.
This verse sets up the contrast with God’s grace in the next verses. Paul wants believers to remember their past not to feel shame, but to grow in humility, gratitude, and compassion toward others.
Theological Implications
This verse teaches that all people are naturally lost without God. It confirms the idea that sin is not just about actions-it’s a condition of the heart. People aren’t born neutral; we’re born with a bent toward sin. This is why we need salvation-not self-improvement, but rescue.
It also tells us that change is possible. If we once lived this way but no longer do, it’s because of God’s mercy. There’s hope, even for those who are deeply stuck in sin, because God can transform lives.
Literary Analysis
This verse is full of vivid, personal language. Paul uses strong words-“foolish,” “enslaved,” “hated”-to describe the old life. He strings them together in a way that makes the weight of our sin clear. It’s not meant to be pleasant. It’s meant to be honest.
The use of “we too” is especially important. Paul is identifying with the readers. This isn’t an “us versus them” statement. It’s “we’ve all been there.” That tone sets up the powerful message of God’s kindness and salvation in the verses that follow.
Biblical Cross-References
- Ephesians 2:1-3 – A parallel passage that talks about being dead in sin and following the ways of the world before God saved us.
- Romans 3:10-12 – “There is no one righteous, not even one.”
- 1 Corinthians 6:9-11 – Paul lists sinful lifestyles and says, “That is what some of you were. But you were washed…”
- Isaiah 53:6 – “We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to our own way.”
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
This verse reminds today’s Christians not to forget where they came from. No matter how long we’ve been following Jesus, we were once just as lost as anyone else. That should shape how we see people who don’t yet believe. Instead of being proud or judgmental, we should be humble and full of compassion.
It also helps us stay thankful. If we truly understand the mess we were in before Christ, we won’t take His grace lightly. And when we struggle now, we can remember that change is possible-because God has already started His work in us.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse doesn’t mention God directly, but it prepares us to understand just how great His love is. God saw us in all our foolishness, disobedience, and brokenness-and He still chose to save us. A loving God doesn’t wait for people to clean themselves up. He moves toward us while we’re still stuck in sin.
This is love that doesn’t give up, doesn’t turn away, and doesn’t pretend our sin isn’t real. God knows exactly how lost we were-and He came to rescue us anyway.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse shows why we need Jesus. We couldn’t save ourselves from the mess described here. We were enslaved, deceived, and full of hate. Jesus came to free us from all of that. In John 8:34-36, He says everyone who sins is a slave to sin, but “if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.”
Jesus took our foolishness and disobedience upon Himself. He died for sinners-not for the righteous (Romans 5:8). And through Him, we are made new. Titus 3:4-6, which follow this verse, explain that clearly: we were saved not because of anything we did, but because of His mercy, shown through Jesus.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Do you remember what your life was like before knowing Christ? How has He changed you?
- Are there parts of this verse that still describe your life today? What might God be inviting you to surrender?
- How does remembering your past help you stay humble and compassionate toward others?
- Is there anyone in your life who seems “too far gone”? How can this verse remind you of God’s power to save?
- How can you share your story of transformation with someone who needs hope?