Titus was entrusted with the task of addressing the deficiencies on the Isle of Crete and transforming its spiritual environment. The work where he was assigned, was plagued by the influence of Jewish false teachers who promoted improper teachings for dishonest gain (Titus 1:10-11). Additionally, the people were described as liars, evil beasts, and lazy gluttons (Titus 1:12), an accusation made by one of their own prophets, Epimenides, which Paul confirmed to be true (Titus 1:13)
The tasks assigned to Titus were: 1:5 …appoint elders in every city, 1:11 …silence false teachers, 1:13 …issue sharp rebukes, 1:14 …avoid Jewish fables and human commandments that deviate from the truth. 2:1-6 …teach what aligns with sound doctrine; guide older men and women to set an example and teach younger men and women how to behave, 2:7 …demonstrate a model of good works, 2:9 …encourage servants to obey their masters, 2:15 …speak, exhort, and rebuke with authority, 3:1-2 …remind them to submit to rulers and authorities, obey, be ready for good works, avoid speaking evil, promote peace and gentleness, and show humility to all, 3:3-7 …remind them of their past and their salvation, 3:8 …affirm these teachings so that the Cretan Christians maintain good works, 3:9 …steer clear of foolish disputes, genealogies, arguments, and legal quarrels, as they are unprofitable.
As Paul concludes this letter, he advises Titus in 3:10 to “reject a divisive man after the first and second admonition.” Titus faced a challenging mission on the Isle of Crete, where dealing with someone divisive or contentious would significantly hinder his ability to fulfill the tasks previously outlined.
Divisiveness within a local church can undo years of hard work in a very short time. Unity is important to our Lord—so important, that even with the crucifixion looming, He prayed for the disciples the Father had given Him and for you and me, that we might share the unity He and the Father enjoyed. (John 17:17-23).
Anyone who is divisive, whether through false doctrine, greed for power, gossip, rudeness, discouragement, or similar behaviors, presents a threat to the unity that was in our Lord’s heart before He went to the cross. Paul’s instruction to Titus, and to us, is not an act of unkindness toward someone who persists in being divisive after admonishment. By refusing their divisive actions and contentious attitude, choosing to exclude them from participation and fellowship in the local church, we are simply striving to preserve the unity Jesus prayed for among His people.
“Reject a divisive man after the first and second admonition, knowing that such a person is warped and sinning, being self-condemned.” Titus 3:10-11
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