For this cause. Paul here restates his original instruction to Titus, doubtless for the benefit of the Cretan church members. Information regarding Paul’s early departure from Crete is lacking. Perhaps the pressure of duties in other areas hurried him away. Or, he may simply have been confident of Titus’ ability to carry the work forward. Titus had demonstrated his resourcefulness and administrative abilities on earlier assignments (see 2 Cor. 2:12, 13; 7:5, 6; 8:16, 17, 23).
Because no mention of Paul’s visit to Crete is recorded in the book of Acts, some have suggested that this trip occurred after his first imprisonment in Rome (see Vol. VI, p. 107).
Crete. See p. 355.
Set in order. Titus was to complete the work of organizing the Cretan church.
Perhaps because the Cretans may have thought no additional organization necessary after Paul’s departure, Titus stood in need of this special authorization in order to perfect an efficient organization. Every new organization requires time and attention if it is to operate efficiently, and every leader knows that new plans must be unfolded gradually and tactfully.
Wanting. Or, “lacking,” that is, the things that remain to be done.
Ordain. Or, “appoint.”
Elders. Gr. presbuteroi (see Vol. VI, pp. 26, 38; see on Acts 11:30). The appointing of the “elders” included the ceremony of ordination (see 1 Tim. 4:14; 5:22; 2 Tim. 1:6).
In every city. Or, “city by city.” Apparently the gospel had made extensive progress in Crete.
Appointed. Gr. diatasso, “to direct,” “to command.” Here Paul refers to previous instruction given to Titus concerning the administration of the church in Crete.
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