Titus 1:8

Authorized King James Version

But a lover of hospitality, a lover of good men, sober, just, holy, temperate;

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
ἀλλὰ
But
properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)
#2
φιλόξενον
a lover of hospitality
fond of guests, i.e., hospitable
#3
φιλάγαθον
a lover of good men
fond to good, i.e., a promoter of virtue
#4
σώφρονα
sober
safe (sound) in mind, i.e., self-controlled (moderate as to opinion or passion)
#5
δίκαιον
just
equitable (in character or act); by implication, innocent, holy (absolutely or relatively)
#6
ὅσιον
holy
properly, right (by intrinsic or divine character; thus distinguished from 1342, which refers rather to human statutes and relations; from g2413, whic
#7
ἐγκρατῆ
temperate
strong in a thing (masterful), i.e., (figuratively and reflexively) self-controlled (in appetite, etc.)

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing love fundamental to theology proper, revealing God's essential nature and character and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Titus Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes love in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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