_Paul, a servant of_ the one living and true _God_ In some of his other epistles, Paul calls himself _a servant of Jesus Christ;_ but this is the only one in which he calls himself _a servant of God:_ an appellation which some think he took because the Judaizing teachers in Crete affirmed that he ha... [ Continue Reading ]
_In hope_ Which doctrine lays a foundation for, and shows us how we may attain a well-grounded and lively hope; _of eternal life_ The grand motive and encouragement of every apostle and every servant of God. _Which God, that cannot lie_ Nor deceive any of his creatures, hath not only, as in the form... [ Continue Reading ]
_For this cause left I thee in Crete_ Crete is one of the largest islands in the Mediterranean, being in length, from east to west, about 250 miles, in breadth about 50, and in circuit about 600; and anciently it must have been very populous, being famous for its 100 cities. It is now called Candia,... [ Continue Reading ]
_If any be blameless_ As to his conduct, shunning the appearance of evil, and walking in all the ordinances and commandments of God; _the husband of one wife_ See on 1 Timothy 3:2; _having faithful_, or believing _children_ As τεκνα πιστα may be properly rendered; that is, not infidels, but such as... [ Continue Reading ]
_For there are many unruly_ Subject to no order; _and vain talkers_ Ματαιολογοι, persons who utter a multitude of foolish and trifling things, especially concerning genealogies and fables; _and deceivers_ Φρεναπαται, deceived in their own minds, or deceivers of the minds of others; who delude their... [ Continue Reading ]
_One of themselves_ That is, one of their own countrymen, who could not be unacquainted with their conduct, or disposed to belie them; _even a prophet of their own_ This was the poet Epimenides, who, among the Romans, was reputed to have foretold future events. Cicero, speaking of him, (_ De Divinat... [ Continue Reading ]
_Unto the pure_ Namely, believers whose hearts are purified by faith, Acts 15:9; _all things are pure_ All kinds of meats are lawful to be used; _but unto them that are defiled_ Who are still under the guilt and power of sin; _and unbelieving_ Destitute of true, saving faith, to purify them; _nothin... [ Continue Reading ]