Tit 3:12-15 “When I shall send Artemas unto thee, or Tychicus, be diligent to come unto me to Nicopolis: for I have determined there to winter. Bring Zenas the lawyer and Apollos on their journey diligently, that nothing be wanting unto them. And let ours also learn to maintain good works for necessary uses, that they be not unfruitful. All that are with me salute thee. Greet them that love us in the faith. Grace be with you all. Amen.”
As Paul brings this letter to a close, his heart and mind are still centered on being beneficial to the kingdom. He is apparently working out the details to send one of his companions, either Artemas or Tychicus, to Crete. Upon their arrival in Crete, Paul has asked Titus to be ready to travel to the city of Nicopolis (in Macedonia). It is in Paul’s heart to minister there over the winter, and he obviously desires Titus’ fellowship and assistance in that labor.
It is obvious in Paul’s closing that there is a lot of work going on. God has Zenas and Apollos on their own journey of encouraging and strengthening the brethren at this time. The churches are not to be idle while God sends His ministers to preach His gospel. We are to be diligent (earnest, prompt) in aiding God’s servants. The Greek word translated as “journey” means “to send forward, that is, escort or aid in travel.” In other words, the brethren were all to be actively involved in encouraging the spreading and confirming of the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Paul makes a point to Titus that those whom he and Titus have directly influenced need to be taught to practice (maintain) good works. We are responsible before God to be always prepared to see that nothing is lacking (wanting) in assisting those whom God has sent. This was seen as a necessary use of the time, goods, prayers, etc. of the brethren. Having zeal to see the truth of Jesus Christ ministered to themselves and others was a fruit-bearing endeavor.
Those that were with Paul were of the same mind. Their desire was to salute Titus. The word rendered as “salute” and “greet” here comes from the same Greek, and carries the idea of enfolding someone in our arms. They were embracing Titus in love and fellowship to encourage him in the work before him. This was also their desire for those that loved them in the faith.
May we be diligent to practice good works to His glory and the benefit of His saints, knowing that the grace of God is surely with us in our labor!
