Tit 3:8, 14 | Barnes | STEP | Verse 8. This is a faithful saying . . The reference here is to what he had been just saying, meaning that the doctrine which he had stated about the method of salvation was in the highest degree important, and entirely worthy of belief. And these things I will that thou affirm constantly . Make them the constant subject of your preaching. That they which have believed in God might be careful to maintain good works . This shows that Paul supposed that the doctrines of the gospel were fitted to lead men to holy living. Comp. , and . The "good works," here refer not merely to acts of benevolence and charity, but to all that is upright and good--to an honest and holy life. These things are good and profitable unto men . That is, these doctrines which he had stated were not mere matters of speculation, but they were fitted to promote human happiness, and they should be constantly taught. (b) "careful"

Titus 3:8

Verse 8. This is a faithful saying. 1Timm 1:15. The reference here is to what he had been just saying, meaning that the doctrine which he had stated about the method of salvation was in the highest degree important, and entirely worthy of belief.

And these things I will that thou affirm constantly. Make them the constant subject of your preaching.

That they which have believed in God might be careful to maintain good works. This shows that Paul supposed that the doctrines of the gospel were fitted to lead men to holy living. Comp. Tit 3:1, and Php 4:8. The "good works," here refer not merely to acts of benevolence and charity, but to all that is upright and good--to an honest and holy life.

These things are good and profitable unto men. That is, these doctrines which he had stated were not mere matters of speculation, but they were fitted to promote human happiness, and they should be constantly taught.

(b) "careful" Tit 3:1,14

Titus 3:14

Verse 14. And let ours. Our friends; that is, those who were Christians. Paul had just directed Titus to aid Zenas and Apollos himself; and he here adds that he wished that others who were Christians would be characterized by good works of all kinds.

To maintain good works. Marg., profess honest trades. The Greek will admit of the interpretation in the margin, or will include that; but there is no reason why the direction should be supposed to have any peculiar reference to an honest mode of livelihood, or why it should be confined to that. It rather means, that they should be distinguished for good works, including benevolent deeds, acts of charity, honest toil, and whatever would enter into the conception of an upright life. Tit 3:8.

For necessary uses. Such as are required by their duty to their families, and by the demands of charity. Tit 3:8.

That they be not unfruitful. That it may be seen that their religion is not barren and worthless, but that it produces a happy effect on themselves and on society. Jn 15:16; Eph 4:28.

(1) "maintain" "profess honest trades" (a) "good works" Tit 3:8