Titus 1:4

Titus, mine own son--Greek, "my genuine child" (Ti1 1:2), that is, converted by my instrumentality (Co1 4:17; Plm 1:10). after the common faith--a genuine son in respect to (in virtue of) the faith common to all the people of God, comprising in a common brotherhood Gentiles as well as Jews, therefore embracing Titus a Gentile (Pe2 1:1; Jde 1:3). Grace, mercy, and peace--"mercy" is omitted in some of the oldest manuscripts. But one of the best and oldest manuscripts supports it (compare Notes, see on Ti1 1:2; Ti2 1:2). There are many similarities of phrase in the Pastoral Epistles. the Lord Jesus Christ--The oldest manuscripts read only "Christ Jesus." our Saviour--found thus added to "Christ" only in Paul's Pastoral Epistles, and in Pe2 1:1, Pe2 1:11; Pe2 2:20; Pe2 3:18.

In this chapter we have, I. The preface or introduction to the epistle, showing from and to whom it was written, with the apostle's salutation and prayer for Titus, wishing all blessings to him (Tit 1:1-4). II. Entrance into the matter, by signifying the end of Titus's being left at Crete (v. 5). III. And how the same should be pursued in reference both to good and bad ministers (v. 6 to the end).

1:4 Titus was Paul’s delegate in dealing with the church in Crete. • my true son: The wording authorizes the delegate (as in 1 Tim 1:2).