Commentary on the Epistle to Titus

Blessed Theophylact of Bulgaria gained experience in explaining the Holy Scriptures when, as a rhetorician of the Great Church, he instructed the people. Most of his written interpretations arose at the request of the Greek Empress Maria, whom he calls his pious patron. These works became an outstanding synthesis and transposition of the established patristic traditions, primarily the heritage of the Antiochian theological school and St. John Chrysostom. As a rule, the author presents abbreviated versions of extensive interpretations of the ancient Church Fathers, borrowing only what is necessary for understanding the text. The commentary also includes his own explanations, which often concern disputes with heretics, especially later ones, and issues of dialogue with the Latins. Thanks to his clear, concise presentation and clear semantic emphasis, his commentaries were accessible to a wide range of readers, became widespread and had a significant influence on both Byzantine and Western European theology. In his “Commentary on the Epistle to Titus” (3 chapters), Blessed Theophylact notes that the purpose of this letter is to instruct the experienced Titus in the organization of church life, “to correct what was unfinished” and to give the necessary instructions for his pastoral ministry. The brevity of the epistle is seen as evidence of the virtue and experience of Titus, who needed only reminders and not extensive instructions. The main topics raised in the interpretation: the definition of the role of the bishop, the nature of power and ministry, the fight against false teachings, practical advice on building and managing a Christian community, concern for the education of the younger generation. Of Paul's companions, Titus was the most experienced man; that is why he was ordained bishop of the island of Crete by Paul, and was entrusted with the consecration and trial of many bishops. He, as a completely experienced person, is entrusted with correcting what was unfinished by this letter, which Paul wrote to him before his imprisonment, when he was still free. For nowhere does he mention trials here. Therefore, it seems to me that this letter precedes the second letter to Timothy, for he wrote that at the end of his life. He constantly mentions here the grace by which we are saved, knowing that it is a great consolation. Whoever remembers who he was before and what gifts and graces he received after that will make every effort not to anger his Benefactor. He also attacks the Jews, but do not be surprised if he condemns the entire people. He does this not to offend, but out of love for God and out of fiery jealousy, just as Christ repeatedly denounced the scribes, but not for Himself, but for the fact that they drew others into destruction. The Apostle writes a short epistle, even in order to teach us the virtues of Titus. For he did not need long speeches, but only some reminder. You might be interested in: