New Testament

Titus 2:1

Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.

ClearClear Bible Translation

As for you, teach what lines up with sound doctrine.

Compare translations
KJVKing James Version

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.

A painting of the angel Gabriel visiting Mary

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

An old color photograph of Nazareth spread across a hillside in Galilee.

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 Plans

Ask 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

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.