Titus 2:15
These things speak, and exhort, and rebuke with all authority. Let no man despise thee.
Original Language Analysis
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
3 of 12
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
παρακάλει
exhort
G3870
παρακάλει
exhort
Strong's:
G3870
Word #:
4 of 12
to call near, i.e., invite, invoke (by imploration, hortation or consolation)
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
5 of 12
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
μετὰ
with
G3326
μετὰ
with
Strong's:
G3326
Word #:
7 of 12
properly, denoting accompaniment; "amid" (local or causal); modified variously according to the case (genitive association, or accusative succession)
Cross References
2 Timothy 4:2Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.Matthew 7:29For he taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes.Titus 1:13This witness is true. Wherefore rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith;1 Timothy 5:20Them that sin rebuke before all, that others also may fear.Mark 1:22And they were astonished at his doctrine: for he taught them as one that had authority, and not as the scribes.
Historical Context
Titus's authority derived from Paul's apostolic commission, not personal charisma. In honor-shame culture, asserting authority could seem arrogant, but failing to assert it showed cowardice. The balance: speak with humble boldness, confident in the message not the messenger. Younger leaders especially needed this charge against those who'd dismiss them.
Questions for Reflection
- Do you exercise ministry with appropriate authority, or does false humility keep you silent when you should speak?
- When you speak biblical truth, do you do so with confidence in God's word or apologetically as personal opinion?
- How do you balance humble service with bold proclamation—avoiding both arrogance and timidity?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
These things speak, and exhort, and rebuke with all authority—three imperatives: λάλει (lalei, speak/proclaim), παρακάλει (parakalei, exhort/encourage), ἔλεγχε (elegche, rebuke/reprove). μετὰ πάσης ἐπιταγῆς (meta pasēs epitagēs, with all authority/commandment)—ἐπιταγή (epitagē) is military command language. Titus must proclaim, encourage, and correct with full apostolic authority, not tentatively.
Let no man despise thee (μηδείς σου περιφρονείτω, mēdeis sou periphroneitō)—περιφρονέω (periphoneō, think around/disregard/despise). This isn't commanding respect but charging Titus to minister authoritatively despite youth (cf. 1 Timothy 4:12). If he speaks God's word faithfully, no one has grounds to despise him. Timidity invites contempt; bold faithfulness commands respect.