Titus

by John MacArthur

Summary

John MacArthur’s commentary on Titus in the MacArthur New Testament Commentary series is a conservative, expositional treatment of this short but weighty Pastoral Epistle. Written from a strongly evangelical and Reformed-leaning perspective, it combines verse-by-verse explanation with doctrinal clarity and pointed application. MacArthur’s concern throughout is to show how Paul’s instructions to Titus shape the life, leadership, and witness of the local church.

The volume follows the familiar format of the series: an introduction that situates Titus historically and theologically, followed by continuous exposition of the text. MacArthur pays particular attention to qualifications for elders, the relationship between sound doctrine and godly living, and the call to adorn the gospel in a hostile culture. The tone is pastoral and urgent rather than academic, aimed at those who will teach and shepherd Christ’s people.

While it does not linger over every technical or critical issue, it offers solid, text-rooted explanation at a level accessible to pastors, Bible teachers, and serious lay readers. The commentary reads like written preaching—clear, confrontational where necessary, and consistently concerned to drive the text home to the conscience.

Why Should I Own This Commentary?

First, this volume is particularly strong on the connection between sound doctrine and godly conduct. MacArthur repeatedly shows how Paul’s teaching in Titus insists that elders, households, and congregations must embody the gospel they confess. For preachers, this makes the commentary a rich source of application that is not bolted on to the text but grows naturally from it.

Second, the treatment of church leadership is especially useful. The exposition of Titus 1 on elder qualifications is careful, practical, and unapologetically counter-cultural. MacArthur presses the text into the life of the contemporary church, challenging lax views of leadership and calling for moral and doctrinal integrity in those who oversee Christ’s flock. Elders and aspiring elders will find these sections both searching and clarifying.

Third, the commentary keeps the big themes of grace and godliness in view. Passages like Titus 2:11–14 are handled in a way that highlights both the saving and training dimensions of grace: grace that justifies also teaches believers to renounce ungodliness and live upright lives as they wait for Christ’s appearing. This balance guards against both legalism and antinomianism and gives preachers good material for gospel-centred exhortation.

Compared with more technical works on the Pastoral Epistles, this volume is not the last word on every exegetical question, and it will not replace a heavyweight academic commentary. But it is a very useful “first stop” for sermon preparation, especially for those who share MacArthur’s high view of Scripture and desire to preach Titus with clarity and conviction.

Closing Recommendation

If you are a pastor or Bible teacher looking for a clear, conservative, and applicatory guide through Titus, this commentary is a strong option. It excels at drawing straight lines from the text to the local church, especially in matters of leadership, godliness, and gospel witness in a hostile culture. Those who share MacArthur’s theological instincts will find themselves largely in agreement; those who differ at points will still benefit from his seriousness about the authority and sufficiency of Scripture.

This is not the only commentary you will ever need on Titus, but it is a reliable and edifying companion for expositional preaching and teaching. As part of a balanced study shelf—supplemented by at least one more technical work—it more than earns its place.