I have left you behind in Crete in order that you may set right the things which still require attention, and appoint Elders in every town, as I directed you to do;

holding fast to the faithful Message which he has received, so that he may be well qualified both to encourage others with sound teaching and to reply successfully to opponents.

For there are many that spurn authority--idle, talkative and deceitful persons, who, for the most part, are adherents of the Circumcision.

This testimony is true. Therefore sternly denounce them, that they may be robust in their faith,

But as for you, you must speak in a manner that befits wholesome teaching.

industrious in their homes, kind, submissive to their husbands, so that the Christian teaching may not be exposed to reproach.

and healthy language which no one can censure, so that our opponents may feel ashamed at having nothing evil to say against us.

Remind people that they must submit to the rulers who are in authority over them; that they must obey the magistrates, be prepared for every right action,

in order that having been declared righteous through His grace we might become heirs to the Life of the Ages in fulfilment of our hopes.

This is a faithful saying, and on these various points I would have you insist strenuously, in order that those who have their faith fixed on God may be careful to set an example of good actions. For these are not only good in themselves, but are also useful to mankind.

for, as you know, a man of that description has turned aside from the right path and is a sinner self-condemned.

Help Zenas the lawyer forward on his journey with special care, and Apollos, so that they may have all they require.

And let our people too learn to set a good example in following honest occupations for the supply of their necessities, so that they may not live useless lives.