Titus 3:12-15

Closing Words

Paul apparently planned to send either Artemas or Tychicus to take Titus' place in Crete (compare 2 Timothy 4:12; Acts 20:4; Ephesians 6:21-22; Colossians 4:7). Titus was then to join Paul in Nicopolis where he planned to spend the winter. Titus was also instructed to help Zenas and Apollos on their way. Zenas is called a lawyer, but we do not know whether he worked with the Jewish or Roman law. Apollos was a gospel preacher (Acts 18:24-28; 1 Corinthians 3:5-9; 1 Corinthians 16:12). Hospitality was important to travelers of that day. To bring someone on his way, one would have to provide all he needed to continue his journey (Titus 3:12-13; Romans 15:24; 1 Corinthians 9:9; 1 Corinthians 9:14; 1 Corinthians 16:6; 1 Corinthians 16:11).

Perhaps in conjunction with helping Zenas and Apollos on their journey, Paul repeated his instruction for Titus to urge the brethren to maintain good works. They were to be especially mindful of pressing needs. Caring for the needs of others causes one to bear fruit in the Lord's service (Titus 3:14; Titus 3:8; Titus 2:7; Titus 2:14; 1 Timothy 2:10; 1 Timothy 5:10; 1 Timothy 6:18; 2 Timothy 2:21; Matthew 25:31-46). Paul closed by relaying the greetings of all the brethren with him to Titus. In turn, he asked Titus to convey his greetings to those who loved him because of their common faith. His final prayer for the young preacher and brethren, since this "you" is plural, is for God's unmerited favor to be on them (Titus 3:15).