New Testament
Titus 2:9
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, Paul instructs Titus to teach servants to be obedient to their masters.
- Author
- Paul the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 62-66
- Genre
- Letter (pastoral epistle)
- Original Audience
- Titus and the church in Crete
Tell servants to submit to their own masters and to do their best to please them in everything, without talking back.
Exhort servants to be obedient unto their own masters, and to please them well in all things; not answering again;
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Paul instructs Titus to teach servants to be obedient to their masters. The emphasis is on the importance of submission and doing their best to please their employers in all tasks. This means not only following orders but also doing so with a positive attitude, avoiding arguments or complaints. The underlying principle is that servants should reflect a spirit of respect and diligence in their work, which can serve as a testimony to their faith. This instruction highlights the value of good conduct in the workplace, showing that even in positions of servitude, one can honor God through their actions. By being obedient and respectful, servants can create a harmonious work environment and potentially influence their masters positively. This teaching encourages a mindset of service and integrity, which is applicable to all relationships, not just those between servants and masters. Explore related obedience.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Titus 2:9 to your life
In today's context, this verse encourages employees to approach their work with a positive attitude, showing respect to their employers. By being diligent and avoiding negativity, individuals can create a better workplace and reflect their values through their actions.
Curated for this public verse page. Titus Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Titus 2:9 mean?
Titus 2:9 instructs servants to be obedient to their masters and to strive to please them in all tasks. This verse emphasizes the importance of submission and a positive attitude in the workplace.
What is the meaning of obedience in Titus 2:9?
Obedience in Titus 2:9 refers to the act of following the orders of one's master without resistance or complaint. It highlights the value of respect and diligence in fulfilling work responsibilities.
How can I apply Titus 2:9 in my job?
You can apply Titus 2:9 by approaching your work with a positive mindset, respecting your employer, and being diligent in your tasks. This attitude can improve your work environment and reflect your values.
What themes are present in Titus 2:9?
The themes in Titus 2:9 include obedience, submission, work ethic, respect, integrity, and Christian conduct. These themes encourage good behavior and a strong work ethic in all relationships.

The Book of Titus
1: Qualifications for elders
Paul begins his letter by greeting Titus, his true son in their common faith. He reminds Titus that he left him in Crete to put in order what was left unfinished and to appoint elders in every town. Paul then lays out the qualifications for these elders. An elder must be blameless, the husband of one wife, and his children must be believers who are not open to the charge of being wild and disobedient. As God's steward, an overseer must be blameless—not overbearing, not quick-tempered, not given to drunkenness, not violent, not pursuing dishonest gain. Rather, he must be hospitable, one who loves what is good, who is self-controlled, upright, holy, and disciplined. He must hold firmly to the trustworthy message as it has been taught, so that he can encourage others by sound doctrine and refute those who oppose it. Paul warns that there are many rebellious people, mere talkers and deceivers, especially those of the circumcision group. Their mouths must be stopped, because they are ruining whole households by teaching things they ought not to teach—and that for the sake of dishonest gain. He quotes a Cretan prophet who said, "Cretans are always liars, evil brutes, lazy gluttons." Paul affirms this testimony and instructs Titus to rebuke them sharply so that they will be sound in the faith and will pay no attention to Jewish myths or to the commands of those who reject the truth.
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