King James Version

What Does Titus 2:7 Mean?

Titus 2:7 in the King James Version says “In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine shewing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity,” — study this verse from Titus chapter 2 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine shewing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity,”

Titus 2:7 · KJV

Context

5

To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed.

6

Young men likewise exhort to be sober minded. sober: or, discreet

7

In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine shewing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity,

8

Sound speech, that cannot be condemned; that he that is of the contrary part may be ashamed, having no evil thing to say of you.

9

Exhort servants to be obedient unto their own masters, and to please them well in all things; not answering again; answering: or, gainsaying

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works—Paul shifts to Titus personally. περὶ πάντα (peri panta, in all things/concerning everything) is comprehensive. παρεχόμενος σεαυτὸν τύπον (parechomenos seauton typon, presenting yourself as an example/pattern) means embodied teaching. τύπος (typos, type/pattern/model) suggests an impression left in wax—others should be able to imitate Titus's visible godliness. καλῶν ἔργων (kalōn ergōn, good/beautiful works).

In doctrine shewing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity—three teaching qualities: ἀφθορίαν (aphtharian, incorruption/integrity—doctrine unmixed with error), σεμνότητα (semnotēta, dignity/seriousness), ἀφθαρσίαν (aphtharsian, sincerity/purity). Some manuscripts omit ἀφθαρσίαν. The point: teaching content (uncorrupted) and manner (dignified) must align. Style and substance both matter.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Titus's youth (compared to Paul) required especially careful conduct to earn respect. In honor-shame culture, personal example carried more weight than abstract argument. The Greco-Roman rhetorical tradition valued decorum (πρέπον, prepon)—appropriate speech and conduct befitting the message. Paul demands this for gospel ministers.

Reflection Questions

  1. Leaders: is your life an imitable pattern, or do you say "do as I say, not as I do"?
  2. Does your teaching exhibit integrity, dignity, and sincerity, or do gimmicks and entertainment replace substance?
  3. In what specific ways do your works confirm or contradict your words—where's the gap between profession and practice?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 13 words
περὶ1 of 13

“In”

G4012

properly, through (all over), i.e., around; figuratively with respect to; used in various applications, of place, cause or time (with the genitive cas

πάντα2 of 13

“all things”

G3956

all, any, every, the whole

σεαυτὸν3 of 13

“thyself”

G4572

of (with, to) thyself

παρεχόμενος4 of 13

“shewing”

G3930

to hold near, i.e., present, afford, exhibit, furnish occasion

τύπον5 of 13

“a pattern”

G5179

a die (as struck), i.e., (by implication) a stamp or scar; by analogy, a shape, i.e., a statue, (figuratively) style or resemblance; specially, a samp

καλῶν6 of 13

“of good”

G2570

properly, beautiful, but chiefly (figuratively) good (literally or morally), i.e., valuable or virtuous (for appearance or use, and thus distinguished

ἔργων7 of 13

“works”

G2041

toil (as an effort or occupation); by implication, an act

ἐν8 of 13

“in”

G1722

"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc

τῇ9 of 13
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

διδασκαλίᾳ10 of 13

“doctrine”

G1319

instruction (the function or the information)

ἀδιἀφθορίαν,11 of 13

“shewing uncorruptness”

G90

incorruptibleness, i.e., (figuratively) purity (of doctrine)

σεμνότητα12 of 13

“gravity”

G4587

venerableness, i.e., probity

ἀφθαρσιαν,13 of 13

“sincerity”

G861

incorruptibility; genitive, unending existence; (figuratively) genuineness

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Titus. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Titus 2:7 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Titus 2:7 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

1 Peter 5:31 Timothy 4:122 Corinthians 4:2Philippians 1:102 Thessalonians 3:9Ephesians 6:24

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