15 These things speak, and exhort, and rebuke with all authority. Let no man despise thee. (Titus 2:15 KJV)
Commentary
The apostle closes the chapter, as he began it, with a summary direction to Titus about the whole matter—covering both the content and manner of ministers’ teaching, and a personal instruction to Titus himself.
The subject of ministers’ teaching is these things, namely, those previously mentioned—not Jewish fables and traditions, but the truths and duties of the gospel: avoiding sin and living soberly, righteously, and godly in this present world. Ministers in their preaching must stay close to the word of God. “If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God” (1 Peter 4:11), and not the inventions of human imagination.
The manner of teaching is by doctrine, exhortation, and reproof, with all authority. “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, and for instruction in righteousness” (2 Timothy 3:16). It teaches sound doctrine, convicts of sin, refutes error, reforms life, and strengthens believers in what is just and good, so that the servant of God—whether minister or lay believer—may be complete and thoroughly equipped for every good work.
“These things speak,” that is, teach and declare the whole counsel of God. The great and necessary truths and duties of the gospel—these speak and exhort. Ministers must not be cold or indifferent in delivering heavenly truth, as though it were of little importance. They must proclaim it with passion and urgency, calling on people to pay attention and not be hearers only but doers of the word, that they may be blessed in their obedience (James 1:22-25).
They must also rebuke—convince and correct those who oppose or neglect the truth, or who live contrary to it. Some hear the word but do not receive it with believing and obedient hearts; instead, they continue in disobedience, proving themselves “unfit for any good work” (Titus 1:16). Ministers must therefore rebuke with all authority, speaking in the name of God and under his commission. Those who disregard such reproof do so at their own peril, “for he who rejects this rejects not man, but God” (1 Thessalonians 4:8). Ministers are appointed as reprovers in the gate, to uphold the honor of God’s word.
A special instruction is given to Titus himself: “Let no one despise you” (Titus 2:15). That is, give no occasion for it, and do not allow it without correction, remembering that those who despise the minister of God despise the Lord himself. Therefore, Titus must speak and exhort these things boldly and faithfully, reproving sin with courage, and carefully watching over his own conduct so that none may justly despise him.
The most effective way for ministers to protect themselves from contempt is to remain true to the doctrine of Christ, follow his example, and live uprightly. By preaching and living well, and by performing their duty with wisdom and courage, they preserve both their reputation and their peace.
This may also serve as an admonition to the people—that Titus, though young and a representative of the apostle, should not be despised but respected as a faithful servant of Christ, and supported in his ministry. “Know those who labor among you and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you; and esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake” (1 Thessalonians 5:12-13). Believers should value their teachers, honor their labor, support them in their work, and do what they can to advance their efforts for the glory of God and the salvation of souls.