Titus 2:12

It instructs us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live sensible, upright, and godly lives in the present age,

Study Bible

It instructs us
The phrase "It instructs us" refers to the grace of God mentioned in the previous verse. The Greek word for "instructs" is "paideuō," which implies a comprehensive form of teaching that includes correction and discipline. This is not merely academic learning but a transformative process that shapes character and behavior. In the context of Titus, this instruction is not optional but a divine mandate for believers, emphasizing the active role of grace in guiding Christian conduct.

to renounce
The word "renounce" comes from the Greek "arneomai," meaning to deny or disown. This is a strong term that implies a decisive and public rejection. In the early Christian context, this would have been understood as a clear break from past behaviors and allegiances that are contrary to the teachings of Christ. It is a call to a radical transformation, where believers are to turn away from their former ways.

ungodliness
"Ungodliness" is translated from the Greek "asebeia," which refers to a lack of reverence or piety towards God. In the Greco-Roman world, this term would have been associated with behaviors and attitudes that are irreverent or disrespectful to the divine. For Christians, renouncing ungodliness means rejecting any form of life that does not honor God, aligning oneself instead with His holiness and righteousness.

and worldly passions
The phrase "worldly passions" is derived from the Greek "kosmikas epithymias," which refers to desires that are characteristic of the secular world. These are cravings and lusts that are opposed to the spiritual life God calls believers to lead. In the historical context of the early church, this would include the hedonistic and materialistic pursuits prevalent in Roman society. Christians are called to rise above these temporal desires and seek eternal values.

and to live
The phrase "and to live" indicates an ongoing, active lifestyle. The Greek word "zaō" implies not just existence but a vibrant, purposeful life. This is a call to action, urging believers to embody the teachings of Christ in their daily lives. It suggests a continuous, dynamic process of living out one's faith in practical ways.

sensible
"Sensible" is translated from the Greek "sōphronōs," which means self-controlled or sober-minded. This term emphasizes the importance of moderation and prudence in the Christian life. In a world often characterized by excess and impulsivity, believers are called to exercise restraint and sound judgment, reflecting the wisdom that comes from a life transformed by grace.

upright
The word "upright" comes from the Greek "dikaios," meaning just or righteous. This term is often used in the New Testament to describe a life that is in accordance with God's standards. It implies integrity and fairness in one's dealings with others. For the early Christians, living uprightly was a testimony to the transformative power of the Gospel, setting them apart in a morally ambiguous society.

and godly lives
The phrase "and godly lives" is derived from the Greek "eusebōs," which means devout or pious. This term encompasses a life that is devoted to God, characterized by worship, obedience, and a deep relationship with the Creator. It is a holistic approach to life that integrates faith into every aspect of one's being, reflecting the character of Christ.

in the present age
"In the present age" refers to the current era in which believers live. The Greek "en tō nun aiōni" highlights the immediacy and relevance of the call to live godly lives. This is not a future aspiration but a present reality. For the early church, this was a reminder that their faith was to be lived out in the here and now, amidst the challenges and opportunities of their contemporary world. It underscores the timeless nature of the Gospel's call to holiness and the urgency of embodying its principles today.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul
The apostle who authored the letter to Titus, providing guidance and instruction for church leadership and Christian living.

2. Titus
A trusted companion of Paul, serving as a leader in the early church on the island of Crete, tasked with organizing and instructing the believers there.

3. Crete
An island in the Mediterranean where Titus was stationed to establish order and teach sound doctrine among the believers.

4. Early Church
The community of believers in the first century, navigating the challenges of living out their faith in a predominantly pagan society.

5. Grace of God
The preceding verse (Titus 2:11) speaks of the grace of God that brings salvation, which is the foundation for the instruction in verse 12.

Teaching Points

Renouncing Ungodliness
As believers, we are called to actively reject behaviors and attitudes that are contrary to God's nature. This involves a conscious decision to turn away from sin and embrace righteousness.

Rejecting Worldly Passions
The term "worldly passions" refers to desires that are rooted in the temporal and often sinful aspects of the world. Christians are encouraged to seek desires that align with God's will.

Living Sensibly
Sensible living involves exercising self-control and wisdom in our daily decisions. It requires a balanced approach to life that reflects God's priorities.

Upright Living
To live uprightly is to maintain integrity and righteousness in our interactions with others. This involves honesty, fairness, and a commitment to justice.

Godly Living in the Present Age
Despite the challenges of the current cultural climate, believers are called to live in a way that honors God, serving as a testimony to His transformative power.

Bible Study Questions

1. What are some practical ways you can renounce ungodliness in your daily life?

2. How can you identify and reject worldly passions that may be influencing your thoughts and actions?

3. In what areas of your life do you need to exercise more self-control to live sensibly?

4. How can you demonstrate uprightness in your relationships with others, both within and outside the church?

5. Reflect on a time when living a godly life in the present age was challenging. How did you rely on God's grace to overcome it?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Romans 12:2
This verse also speaks about not conforming to the patterns of this world, which aligns with the call in Titus 2:12 to renounce worldly passions.

1 Peter 1:14-16
Peter's exhortation to be holy in all conduct connects with living godly lives as instructed in Titus 2:12.

Galatians 5:16-24
The contrast between the works of the flesh and the fruit of the Spirit provides a practical framework for understanding what it means to live sensibly and uprightly.

Ephesians 4:22-24
Paul’s teaching on putting off the old self and putting on the new self parallels the renunciation of ungodliness and the pursuit of godliness.

Matthew 5:14-16
Jesus’ teaching on being the light of the world complements the call to live godly lives in the present age.