Titus 3:10

Heretick. Gr. hairetikos, “factious” (for a discussion of the related word hairesis see on Acts 5:17). Accordingly, the first phrase of this verse may read, “a factious person.” Paul here outlines the proper method of handling contentious members who promote the confusion and strife described in v. 9. The factious man maintains opinions that are contrary to the established gospel as preached by Paul and as set forth in the OT. If these contrary opinions are actively promoted, schism develops, and church members, both old and new, are unsettled in the faith.

A kind, thoughtful interview with the factious man is the duty of the presiding elder. If a favorable response is not forthcoming, then a second request for cooperation, more earnestly expressed, is clearly the leader’s next step. The purpose of these two interviews is to restore the factious member. Sufficient evidence must be presented to the dissenter so that his wrong views are fairly and conclusively exposed (see on chs. 1:9, 13; 2:15). Every leader should remember that the standard of sound doctrine is not his personal opinion, but the Word of God. Any decision on heretical views must be based on clear Biblical evidence.

Reject. Gr. paraiteomai, “to avoid,” “to shun” (see on 1 Tim. 4:7; 5:11). Paul does not here necessarily recommend disfellowshipping the factious man for his personal views unless he presses these in opposition to duly exercised church authority or there is an accompanying infraction of moral standards (cf. Rom. 16:17; see on 2 Thess. 3:14).