Titus 1:9

Authorized King James Version

Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers.

Word-by-Word Analysis

ἀντεχόμενον

G472

Holding fast

to hold oneself opposite to, i.e., (by implication) adhere to; by extension to care for

τοῦ

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

κατὰ

G2596

(prepositionally) down (in place or time), in varied relations (according to the case (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined)

τὴν

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

διδαχὴν

G1322

he hath been taught

instruction (the act or the matter)

πιστοῦ

G4103

the faithful

objectively, trustworthy; subjectively, trustful

λόγου

G3056

word

something said (including the thought); by implication, a topic (subject of discourse), also reasoning (the mental faculty) or motive; by extension, a

ἵνα

G2443

that

in order that (denoting the purpose or the result)

δυνατὸς

G1415

able

powerful or capable (literally or figuratively); neuter possible

#10

ᾖ

G5600

he may be

(may, might, can, could, would, should, must, etc.; also with g1487 and its comparative, as well as with other particles) be

#11

καὶ

G2532

and

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

#12

παρακαλεῖν

G3870

to exhort

to call near, i.e., invite, invoke (by imploration, hortation or consolation)

#13

ἐν

G1722

"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc

#14

τῇ

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

#15

διδασκαλίᾳ

G1319

doctrine

instruction (the function or the information)

#16

τῇ

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

#17

ὑγιαινούσῃ

G5198

sound

to have sound health, i.e., be well (in body); figuratively, to be uncorrupt (true in doctrine)

#18

καὶ

G2532

and

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

#19

τοὺς

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

#20

ἀντιλέγοντας

G483

the gainsayers

to dispute, refuse

#21

ἐλέγχειν

G1651

to convince

to confute, admonish

Analysis

This verse develops the covenant theme central to Titus. The concept of faith reflects the development of covenant within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes pistis in Greek, encompassing both belief and faithfulness, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood faith. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways does understanding faith in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about covenant?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of the progressive revelation of God's purposes throughout Scripture, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of covenant, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of theology of covenant and God's relational commitment?

Related Resources

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Salvation