What does Titus 3:13 mean?
Paul continues winding down his letter to Titus in verse 13. The request to assist Zenas the lawyer and Apollos in their travels implies that these two men had brought the letter to Titus. Both were certainly Christians. Zenas was likely a Gentile, and Apollos was Jewish. The lawyer Zenas is only mentioned here in the Bible.Apollos, however, is mentioned in both Acts and 1 Corinthians. In Acts 18:24, we read that he was from Alexandria, well-educated in Scripture, and well-spoken. More than likely, Apollos had been baptized by John the Baptist (Acts 18:25). Priscilla and Aquila then taught Him about Jesus (Acts 18:26). Apollos soon traveled to Achaia to help the church there (Acts 18:27) and was known as a strong Christian speaker (Acts 18:28). Apollos then traveled to Corinth (Acts 19:1). He is mentioned six times in 1 Corinthians. Apollos was not in Corinth when 1 Corinthians was written, though he planned to later return (1 Corinthians 16:12).
The final phrase of verse 13 is a clear instruction for Titus and the church. They are to provide hospitality and other resources to help Zenas and Apollos on their travels.
Titus 3:12–15 concludes Paul’s letter to Titus. Paul sends greetings of love from other Christians to the churches on Crete. Paul instructs Titus to provide assistance to two fellow believers, and asks him to make plans to visit Paul in Nicopolis prior to winter. This conclusion suggests that Paul’s letter is meant to be read to all of the local churches on Crete.
Paul reminds Titus of seven positive behaviors, and seven contrasting sins, which he is to insist on teaching correctly. False teachers are to be cut off, not given a public platform. Believers are not to waste time bickering, but focus on good works and urgent needs. This passage also explains how salvation is entirely the result of God’s grace, not our own good deeds.
