Fathers

Titus 3

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Remind them to be in subjection to rulers and to authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good work, to speak evil of no one, not to be contentious, to be gentle, showing all humility toward all men. For we were also once foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving various lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another. But when the kindness of God our Savior and his love toward mankind appeared, not by works of righteousness which we did ourselves, but according to his mercy, he saved us through the washing of regeneration and renewing by the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us richly, through Jesus Christ our Savior; that being justified by his grace, we might be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life. This saying is faithful, and concerning these things I desire that you affirm confidently, so that those who have believed God may be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable to men; but shun foolish questionings, genealogies, strife, and disputes about the law; for they are unprofitable and vain. Avoid a factious man after a first and second warning, knowing that such a one is perverted and sins, being self-condemned. When I send Artemas to you, or Tychicus, be diligent to come to me to Nicopolis, for I have determined to winter there. Send Zenas, the lawyer, and Apollos on their journey speedily, that nothing may be lacking for them. Let our people also learn to maintain good works for necessary uses, that they may not be unfruitful. All who are with me greet you. Greet those who love us in faith. Grace be with you all. Amen.

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What the Fathers say

Titus 3:13

Eastern Fathers

John Chrysostom

Ver. 14. "Bring Zenas the lawyer and Apollos on their journey diligently, that nothing be wanting unto them." These were not of the number to whom Churches had been intrusted, but of the number of his companions. But Apollos was the more vehement, being "an eloquent man, and mighty in the Scriptures." (Acts xviii. 24.) But if Zenas was a lawyer, you say, he ought not to have been supported by others. But by a lawyer here is meant one versed in the laws of the Jews. …

Homily on Titus 6 ↗

Theophylact of Ohrid

He thus calls a man experienced in the Jewish laws: such was Zenas; and Apollos was eloquent and mighty in the Scriptures. Churches had not yet been entrusted to them, "that they might be lacking in nothing," that is: take care that they have in abundance everything necessary, namely food and clothing.

Commentary on Titus ↗

Oecumenius

I have earnestly sent Zenas the lawyer and Apollos, so that nothing may be lacking for them. I have earnestly sent Zenas the lawyer. Experienced in the Jewish laws. Yet these had not yet been entrusted to the Church. But Apollos was a certain great man, both learned and mighty in the Scriptures. so that nothing may be lacking for them. In every abundance, provide for them, perhaps with food and clothing.

Commentary On Titus ↗

Western Saints

Augustine of Hippo

Nevertheless, after the apostle had said in such instruction and advice: "Now such persons we charge and exhort in the Lord Jesus Christ that they work quietly and eat their own bread," he was mindful of such needs of the holy persons who, although they would obey his commands to work quietly and eat their own bread, would, for many reasons, lack some provision of such necessary commodities. …

On the Work of Monks 15.16 ↗

Jerome

Send Zenam, the learned in the law, and hasten to send Apollo, so that nothing may be lacking to them. This is the Apollo of whom mention is made in the epistle to the Corinthians: Every one of you saith: I indeed am of Paul; and I am of Apollo; and I am of Cephas (1 Cor. I, 12). …

Commentary on Titus ↗

Thomas Aquinas

Apollos, who is mentioned here and in Acts (Acts 19:1) was a bishop of the Corinthians, but on account of their waywardness he left them and went to Crete to Titus. Since the Corinthians repented, the Apostle is sending him back. He calls Zenas the lawyer, although Apollo, too, was very learned; for he was a teacher among the Jews. But the reason why he wants them sent ahead and not Titus is that Titus was needed at Crete on account of his episcopal duties, but the others had no obligations. …

Commentary on Titus ↗