5)                  Titus was deliberately left in Crete to carry out a specific assignment.  He was to “straighten out what was left unfinished.”  He was to set things in order.  There were a few things “left unfinished.”  Organization was lacking, false teachers were unchecked (1:10-11; 3:10-11), and instruction in doctrine and conduct was needed (2:1-10; 3:1-2).  Paul noticed these deficits and started to correct them while there; now Titus must pick up the ball and finish the work.

“for this cause”  -  because of this grace – a continuation of the grace mentioned in verse 4.  Titus needed to operate on grace principles while dealing with this most ungracious mob of Christians.

“I left you in Crete”  - Titus was functioning as a true missionary here – all links severed.

“set in order” – to correct or mend.  This required the exercise of authority.  Paul delegated apostolic authority to Titus to deal with people who acknowledge no authority.

This discussion of how Titus is to address and correct the problem in the churches in Crete is one of the most important in the New Testament regarding solving problems among believers overall.  There were problems requiring authoritative action:  false teaching, maligning and gossip, cultural clashes, Judaism, etc.  Some strong language is used in this passage regarding those whose “mouths should be stopped.”  What is lacking?  Everything for a properly functioning church!  How is Titus supposed to correct things?  He is to find men of godly character who know and can teach and live by the Word of God.  These people lack knowledge and application of Bible principles.  They have no “faith-rest” and no orientation to grace, no knowledge of how to use the armor of God, etc.

“ordain elders” – to appoint, put in charge, approve – older, spiritually mature in experience and wisdom.  The English word “presbyter” comes from this word and concept.  Christian leadership emerges from within the ranks.  Pastors were found from within their own churches and the people in the congregation recognized their gift.  The Holy Spirit controlled the seven deacons in Acts and their fruit was known.

“in every city” – Titus was to go from town to town appointing pastors that he identified, who had gifts of communication and enough doctrinal background to be ready for training.  Then, he had to train them and assign them to their posts.  He was not commanded to “import” pastors!

“I have appointed you” – Paul had given Titus detailed orders concerning church policy and organization.  Titus was directed to carry out the plans for organizing the churches on Crete.

6-9)     Discussion of the qualifications of these elders, overseers.