based on the hope and divine guarantee of eternal life, [the life] which God, who is ever truthful and without deceit, promised before the ages of time began,

For this reason I left you behind in Crete, so that you would set right what remains unfinished, and appoint elders in every city as I directed you,

For, as God's steward, a minister must be of blameless life, not over-fond of having his own way, not a man of a passionate temper nor a hard drinker, not given to blows nor greedy of gain,

For there are many rebellious men who are empty talkers [just windbags] and deceivers; especially those of the circumcision [those Jews who insist that Gentile believers must be circumcised and keep the Law in order to be saved].

whom it is necessary to silence, whoever are ruining whole families [by] teaching [things] which must not be [taught] for the sake of dishonest gain.

One of their prophets has said, The men of Crete are ever false, evil beasts, lovers of food, hating work.

For God's favor has appeared with its offer of salvation to all mankind,

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,

to be forbearing, and under all circumstances to show a gentle spirit in dealing with others, whoever they may be.

But avoid foolish controversy, and let genealogies and dissensions and strife over the Law alone, for these are fruitless and futile.