Titus 3:9

Authorized King James Version

But avoid foolish questions, and genealogies, and contentions, and strivings about the law; for they are unprofitable and vain.

Word-by-Word Analysis

μωρὰς

G3474

foolish

dull or stupid (as if shut up), i.e., heedless, (morally) blockhead, (apparently) absurd

δὲ

G1161

But

but, and, etc

ζητήσεις

G2214

questions

a searching (properly, the act), i.e., a dispute or its theme

καὶ

G2532

and

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

γενεαλογίας

G1076

genealogies

tracing by generations, i.e., "genealogy"

καὶ

G2532

and

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

ἔρεις

G2054

contentions

a quarrel, i.e., (by implication) wrangling

καὶ

G2532

and

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

μάχας

G3163

strivings about

a battle, i.e., (figuratively) controversy

#10

νομικὰς

G3544

the law

according (or pertaining) to law, i.e., legal (ceremonially); as noun, an expert in the (mosaic) law

#11

περιΐστασο·

G4026

avoid

to stand all around, i.e., (near) to be a bystander, or (aloof) to keep away from

#12

εἰσὶν

G1526

they are

#13

γὰρ

G1063

for

properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)

#14

ἀνωφελεῖς

G512

unprofitable

useless or (neuter) inutility

#15

καὶ

G2532

and

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

#16

μάταιοι

G3152

vain

empty, i.e., (literally) profitless, or (specially), an idol

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 divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
How does this verse's literary context within Titus chapter 3 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

Topics

Salvation