A Text centred rhetorical analysis of Paul's Letter to Titus

the opening verses of the letter where the manifestation of the divine word is
mentioned. In the present section, the teaching grace of God is presented as
another manifestation of the divine word.
The contrast between that which must be denied and that which must be
practiced, is highlighted through the juxtaposition of kosmika;" ejpiqumiva" and
swfrovnw" (verse 12). The latter word is another instance of repetition. This
word has been used positively throughout the section and in earlier parts of
the letter. It now forms part of another emphatic cluster along with dikaivw" kai;
eujsebw`". Quinn (1990:168) correctly identifies assonance and the rhyming -
w`" of the adverbs, the polysyndeton and the adverbial usage. He proposes
that this cluster is clearly emphatic and suggestive of the inseparability of
these qualities in Christian living. Thus, in the instruction of grace, the three
qualities come together to form a unity characteristic of those who profess to
know God. Each of the three words in this cluster has been used previously,
but this is the first time they are combined. In this regard, one can almost refer
to them as doubly emphatic.
In the case of dikaivw", it should be noted that the adjective divkaio~ was used
first with reference to elders-overseers (1:8). It now is a characteristic of all
who are instructed by grace. Its repetition serves to enhance the identification
and community of the students of grace. Thus, if the believers manifest
conduct corresponding to sound doctrine they are in community with those
identified in 1:5-9 and not with the opposition who are incapable of
manifesting divkaio~.
In the case of eujsebw`", it should be noted that the emphatic repetition and
recollection of eujsevbeia, first raised in 1:1, makes an important point regarding
the consistency of the divine intent. The purpose of the apostolic ministry was
for the sake of godliness (1:1). The appearance of grace, who instructs “her”
students in godliness, emphasises that Paul is not introducing anything new.
He expects the Cretans to be in total agreement with the divine mandate.
There is absolute consensus between what the apostle is appointed to do and
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