12 When I shall send Artemas unto thee, or Tychicus, be diligent to come unto me to Nicopolis: for I have determined there to winter. 13 Bring Zenas the lawyer and Apollos on their journey diligently, that nothing be wanting unto them. 14 And let ours also learn to maintain good works for necessary uses, that they be not unfruitful. 15 All that are with me salute thee. Greet them that love us in the faith. Grace be with you all. Amen. (Titus 3:12-15 KJV)
Final Instructions and Greetings
Apostle Paul then gives Titus further directions (Titus 3:12-13). Titus must be ready to come to Paul at Nicopolis as soon as Artemas or Tychicus arrives in Crete to take his place. Paul would not leave the young churches without capable leadership. Titus was not their permanent pastor but an evangelist, otherwise Paul would not have called him away. Of Artemas we know little, but Tychicus is described elsewhere as “a beloved brother, faithful minister, and fellow servant in the Lord” (Ephesians 6:21; Colossians 4:7). When Paul wrote, he said, “Be diligent to come to me at Nicopolis, for I have decided to spend the winter there,” showing that he had not yet reached that city.
Titus was also instructed to help Zenas the lawyer and Apollos on their journey, ensuring they lacked nothing. This was not mere courtesy but Christian duty, out of love for them and their gospel mission. Apollos was a faithful and eloquent preacher (Acts 18:24–28). Supporting such workers was a pious act, helping spread the gospel. Paul repeats the exhortation: “Let our people learn to maintain good works for necessary uses, that they may not be unfruitful” (Titus 3:14). Believers should do good works, especially by supporting ministers and the gospel’s advancement, becoming fellow workers for the truth (3 John 1:5-8). Christianity is not a fruitless faith; its followers must be filled with the fruits of righteousness, doing good as well as avoiding evil (Philippians 1:11).
Let Christians also maintain honest labor and provide for themselves and their families, so they do not become burdens to others. Faith does not excuse laziness; it calls believers to diligent work, honoring God in their callings. This brings credit to religion, benefits society, and enables believers to help those in need. They must not live idly off others’ labor, but be fruitful for the common good (1 Thessalonians 4:11-12).
The apostle concludes with greetings and blessings (Titus 3:15). Even those not personally known to Titus send love and good wishes, encouraging him in his ministry. It is a great comfort to have the prayers and support of fellow believers. “Greet those who love us in the faith.” Holiness—the image of God in any believer—is the strongest bond of Christian fellowship.
“Grace be with you all.” This closing benediction is not for Titus alone but for all the faithful in Crete. It shows that the letter, though addressed to one man, was written for the entire church. “May the grace, love, and favor of God, with all their spiritual blessings, abound in your hearts.” Grace is the greatest blessing believers can desire—for it includes every good thing. The apostle ends with “Amen,” expressing faith and hope that it will be so.