What does Titus 3:10 mean?

In verse 9, Titus had been commanded by Paul to avoid wasting time on certain activities. Most of these involved some aspect of bickering, arguing, or squabbling. Here, Paul adds a warning about people who insist on stirring up division. Titus is to warn them twice, then have nothing to do with them. This is similar to the pattern given in Matthew 18:15–17. However, false teachers, agitators, and such are not to be given a platform or undue attention in the church. Their own conduct condemns them, as verse 11 will explain. Titus is told in no uncertain terms not to have any association with someone who tries to cause divisions within the church.

As the early Christian church grew, problems with false teachers grew as well. Later New Testament writings will speak often against false teachers, warning believers to stay away from them. Second John 1:10–11 teaches something similar to Paul's warning, that those who insist on rejecting sound doctrine should not be supported in any way whatsoever. Jude 1:4 suggests that some of those who are divisive have come into the churches unnoticed, and may only be found later.

Even today, false teachers and trouble-makers cause problems within churches. Church leaders must carefully and courageously correct false teaching. And, at times, they must make a point of having nothing to do with false teachers, or dividers.