To speak evil of no man, to be no brawlers, but gentle, shewing all meekness unto all men.
We are all by nature greedy for power, unwilling to submit to anyone, and we saw the magistrates opposed to Christ and thought them unworthy of honor. Paul commands subjection to rulers and obedience to their laws and edicts not as optional, but as a general duty binding on all believers.
AI summary
Commenting on Titus 3:1-15
Ministers must remind people of their duties as God reminds them through us; forgetfulness is common. Magistracy is God's ordinance for good, and Christians must submit willingly and for conscience' sake, not merely from fear, so that enemies cannot slander the faith as seditious.
AI summary
Commenting on Titus 3:1-8
Never speak evil of any man, whether of low station or high authority, the false teachers did precisely this, defaming magistrates and powers. Be no brawler, neither by blows nor words; striving and quarreling profit nothing and disorder churches, families, and civil peace alike. Rather yield, suffer wrong, and show meekness to all men of every rank, following Christ who strove not in the streets.
AI summary