New Testament
Titus 2:1
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
As for you, teach what lines up with sound doctrine.
Compare translations
But speak thou the things which become sound doctrine:
What Titus 2:1 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Paul instructs Titus to teach principles that align with sound doctrine, which refers to the core beliefs and teachings of the Christian faith that are true and beneficial. Sound doctrine is essential for spiritual growth and helps believers understand how to live according to God's will. By emphasizing the importance of teaching what is true and right, Paul highlights the responsibility of church leaders to guide their communities in faith. This teaching should not only be theoretical but should also reflect practical living that honors God. The call to teach sound doctrine is a reminder that the church must be rooted in truth, ensuring that its members are equipped to live out their faith in a way that is consistent with biblical teachings. This verse sets the tone for the rest of the chapter, where Paul elaborates on the behaviors and attitudes that should characterize different groups within the church, all grounded in sound doctrine.
How to apply Titus 2:1 to your life
To apply this verse, church leaders and teachers should prioritize teaching biblical truths that align with sound doctrine. This involves not only sharing knowledge but also modeling a lifestyle that reflects these teachings, encouraging others to live out their faith authentically.
Curated for this public verse page. Titus Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: An Angel Visits Mary (Luke 1:26–38)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Jesus

Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725045). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nazareth, Israel; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Nazareth
The small town in Galilee where Jesus grew up.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Titus 2:1
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Titus 2:1
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Titus
- Author
- Paul the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 62-66
- Genre
- Letter (pastoral epistle)
- Original Audience
- Titus and the church in Crete
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Titus 2:1 mean?
Titus 2:1 means that Paul is instructing Titus to teach principles that align with sound doctrine, which are the core beliefs of the Christian faith. This emphasizes the importance of teaching what is true and beneficial for spiritual growth.
What is the meaning of sound doctrine in Titus 2:1?
Sound doctrine in Titus 2:1 refers to the true and beneficial teachings of the Christian faith that guide believers in their spiritual lives. It is essential for understanding how to live according to God's will.
How can church leaders apply Titus 2:1?
Church leaders can apply Titus 2:1 by prioritizing the teaching of biblical truths that reflect sound doctrine. They should also model a lifestyle that embodies these teachings, encouraging others to live out their faith authentically.
Why is sound doctrine important according to Titus 2:1?
Sound doctrine is important according to Titus 2:1 because it helps believers understand the core truths of their faith and guides them in living according to God's will. It ensures that the church is rooted in truth.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.