Special instructions as to Titus's own preaching.
"But speak thou the things which become sound doctrine"—respecting the special deportment of Christians of every age, sex, and rank.
I. CHRISTIANITY IS A SYSTEM OF DOCTRINE AS WELL AS LIFE. It is a doctrine that it may be a life.
1. The doctrine is contrasted with the fables of the false teachers, who did nothing by their speculations but lower the tone of Christian life. A true moral life was only possible on the basis of the facts of the gospel plan of salvation (verse 11).
2. Its soundness contrasts with the unhealthy teaching of the false teachers. It is called "the good doctrine" (1 Timothy 4:6), and the "doctrine according to godliness" (1 Timothy 6:3). Every other system corrupts; the sound doctrine renovates, elevates, purifies; for our Lord said, "Sanctify them through thy truth." It is milk for babes and meat for strong men.
II. IT IS THE DUTY OF MINISTERS TO PREACH THIS SOUND DOCTRINE. It ought to be preached:
1. Publicly and plainly, since there are so many" vain teachers."
2. With certainty, as being the undoubted truth.
3. With all boldness, as without fear of man or seeking to please man.
4. At all times, in season and out of season.
5. In its due relation to the duties of religion, as the spring of obedience.—T.C.