Titus 3:4
But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared,
Original Language Analysis
ἡ
G3588
ἡ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
3 of 12
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
χρηστότης
that the kindness
G5544
χρηστότης
that the kindness
Strong's:
G5544
Word #:
4 of 12
usefulness, i.e., morally, excellence (in character or demeanor)
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
ἡ
G3588
ἡ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
6 of 12
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
φιλανθρωπία
love
G5363
φιλανθρωπία
love
Strong's:
G5363
Word #:
7 of 12
fondness of mankind, i.e., benevolence ("philanthropy")
ἐπεφάνη
appeared
G2014
ἐπεφάνη
appeared
Strong's:
G2014
Word #:
8 of 12
to shine upon, i.e., become (literally) visible or (figuratively) known
τοῦ
G3588
τοῦ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
9 of 12
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Cross References
1 Timothy 4:10For therefore we both labour and suffer reproach, because we trust in the living God, who is the Saviour of all men, specially of those that believe.Hebrews 9:26For then must he often have suffered since the foundation of the world: but now once in the end of the world hath he appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of himself.Romans 2:4Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance?2 Timothy 1:10But is now made manifest by the appearing of our Saviour Jesus Christ, who hath abolished death, and hath brought life and immortality to light through the gospel:1 Timothy 2:3For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour;1 Timothy 1:1Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the commandment of God our Saviour, and Lord Jesus Christ, which is our hope;Titus 1:3But hath in due times manifested his word through preaching, which is committed unto me according to the commandment of God our Saviour;
Historical Context
The Incarnation revealed God's character. Old Testament saints knew God's mercy (Exodus 34:6-7), but Christ's coming provided fullest revelation (John 1:14, 18; Hebrews 1:1-3). God's "philanthropy" countered pagan gods' capriciousness and philosophical deism's cold deity. Yahweh is the God who comes near.
Questions for Reflection
- Do you view God primarily as kindness and love toward humanity, or has caricature (harsh judge, distant deity) distorted your theology?
- How does God's initiative in salvation (His kindness "appeared" while we were enslaved) humble human pride and silence boasting?
- In what ways have you personally experienced God's kindness and love—the epiphany of grace in your life?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared—ἀλλά (alla, but) marks glorious contrast. ὅτε δὲ ἡ χρηστότης καὶ ἡ φιλανθρωπία ἐπεφάνη (hote de hē chrēstotēs kai hē philanthrōpia epephanē, when the kindness and philanthropy appeared). χρηστότης (chrēstotēs, kindness/goodness) and φιλανθρωπία (philanthrōpia, love for humanity—literally "man-loving") both describe God's character.
ἐπεφάνη (epephanē, appeared/dawned)—the same verb as 2:11, referring to Christ's incarnation. τοῦ σωτῆρος ἡμῶν θεοῦ (tou sōtēros hēmōn theou, of God our Savior)—God's saving nature manifested historically in Christ. While we were enslaved (v. 3), God's kindness appeared—grace's initiative, not human seeking.