It Starts Small

Titus was not just a Greek follower of Jesus. He was a devoted companion and confidant to Paul. Titus shared in the trials and triumphs of their mission for years. With unwavering loyalty, Titus had come to Paul’s aid during challenging times, stepping up when the pressure was on (Gal. 2:1-3; 2 Cor. 7-8). In this pivotal letter, we find Paul entrusting Titus with a grand and noble mission. Titus was to journey to Crete, that magnificent island shimmering off the coast of Greece. It was there that Paul saw Titus as the vital key to rekindling the spirit. Paul also saw him as essential for restoring harmony among the scattered house churches. Titus breathed new life into their faith and community.

Cretan culture was infamous throughout the ancient world, a reputation that screamed with intensity. The very term for deceit in Greek, kretizo, meaning “to be a Cretan,” encapsulated their notorious legacy. These people were celebrated and reviled. They were marked by fierce treachery and insatiable greed. Most men sold their valor as mercenary soldiers to the highest bidder. The island’s cities were not tranquil. They were engulfed in an atmosphere of danger. The cities were rife with violence and the dark shadows of sexual corruption.

But the island pulsed with life, boasting numerous strategic harbors that embraced cities from every corner of the Mediterranean Sea. To Paul, it was the ideal springboard to ignite a vibrant network of churches. This letter reveals a troubling truth. The specific details remain shrouded in mystery. These churches had fallen prey to the insidious influence of corrupt Cretan leaders. They deceitfully claimed the mantle of Christianity. With unwavering resolve, Paul implored Titus to restore order and provided him with passionate guidance through his letter.

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Cross References:

• 2 Corinthians 2:13
• 2 Corinthians 7:6-7
• 2 Corinthians 7:13-14
• 2 Corinthians 8:6, 16-17
• 2 Corinthians 8:23
• 2 Corinthians 12:18
• Galatians 2:1 & 3 
• 2 Timothy 4:10

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