Show yourself in all respects to be a model of good works, and in your teaching show integrity, dignity,
English Standard Version (ESV)
The verse highlights that Titus's teaching must be marked by "uncorruptness" and "gravity," which don't refer to the content of the doctrine itself, but rather to the teacher's integrity and demeanor. This means his purity of motive and dignified manner are as crucial to his message as the truth he proclaims.
Show yourself in all respects to be a model of good works, and in your teaching show integrity, dignity,
English Standard Version (ESV)
Paul is instructing Titus on how to teach the Cretan church, emphasizing the importance of living a life that exemplifies the very truths he's sharing. This verse specifically calls for Titus to be a living example through his actions and the way he presents doctrine. It sets the stage for the subsequent verses that detail the specific behaviors expected of different groups within the church.
Paul tells Titus to be a 'pattern of good works.' What does that mean for us today? It means our actions speak louder than our words.
The Example Set
Paul's instruction to Titus in verse 7 is clear: "Show yourself in all respects to be a model of good works." This isn't just about preaching the right things; it's about living them.
It's not just what you teach, but how you teach it. Paul lays out critical qualities for Titus's instruction.
The Teacher's Character
Ask a follow-up
Paul doesn't just want Titus to live rightly; he wants his teaching to be exemplary. The verse highlights two key aspects:
Understand the original words
typos · Greek Noun
A person or thing that serves as an example or pattern for others to imitate. In a biblical context, it refers to a life that reflects the character of Christ.
ergon agathos · Greek Noun phrase
Actions done in accordance with God's will. These are the external manifestation of a life transformed by faith and are evidence of salvation.
aphtharsia · Greek Noun
Incorruptibility, sincerity, or purity of motive. It signifies a life that is transparent and consistent, without deceit or moral blemish.
semnotēs · Greek Noun
Gravity, seriousness, or moral excellence. It refers to a conduct that commands respect because it reflects the seriousness of God's kingdom.
This passage directly parallels Titus 2:7 by calling believers to be 'an example to the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity,' emphasizing that outward actions are a vital part of spiritual leadership and teaching.
Philippians 3:17Paul encourages believers to 'imitate me, and mark those who so walk, as you have us for a pattern,' highlighting the importance of leaders and mature believers serving as living examples for others to follow.
Matthew 5:16Jesus' teaching on the Sermon on the Mount echoes the spirit of Titus 2:7, urging believers to 'let their light shine before others, that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven,' connecting good works to glorifying God.
1 Peter 2:12This verse speaks to how good deeds can impact unbelievers, stating 'maintain good conduct among the Gentiles, so that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day of visitation,' reinforcing the idea that integrity in actions influences perceptions of faith.
barnesTitus 2:7: "In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine shewing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity,"
In all things showing thyself a pattern of good works - Not merely teaching others, but showing them by example how they ought to live. On the word rendered "pattern" (τύπον tupon, type), see the Hebrews 9:5 note; 1 Corinthians 10:6 note; Philippians 3:17 note. In doctrine - In your manner of teaching; notes, 1 Timothy 4:16. Showing uncorruptness - The word here used does…
ellicottTitus 2:7: "In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine shewing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity,"
(7) In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works. —Here St. Paul shows Titus that his especial work is the instruction of no one peculiar class or order, or age or sex, but that he is so to fashion his whole life that it may afford a “pattern” to all—men and women, bond as well as free; in all things a ceaseless activity was prescribed to the superintending presbyt…
The verse highlights that Titus's teaching must be marked by "uncorruptness" and "gravity," which don't refer to the content of the doctrine itself, but rather to the teacher's integrity and demeanor. This means his purity of motive and dignified manner are as crucial to his message as the truth he proclaims.
Paul is instructing Titus on how to teach the Cretan church, emphasizing the importance of living a life that exemplifies the very truths he's sharing. This verse specifically calls for Titus to be a living example through his actions and the way he presents doctrine. It sets the stage for the subsequent verses that detail the specific behaviors expected of different groups within the church.
Paul is instructing Titus on how to teach the Cretan church, emphasizing the importance of living a life that exemplifies the very truths he's sharing. This verse specifically calls for Titus to be a living example through his actions and the way he presents doctrine. It sets the stage for the subsequent verses that detail the specific behaviors expected of different groups within the church.
"Show yourself in all respects to be a model of good works, and in your teaching show integrity, dignity," — The verse highlights that Titus's teaching must be marked by "uncorruptness" and "gravity," which don't refer to the content of the doctrine itself, but rather to the teacher's integrity and demean…
Get the original Greek and Hebrew, verse-by-verse context, and related passages inside the app.
Last reviewed October 2026