Titus 1:12 12One of the Cretans, a prophet of their own, said, “Cretans are always liars, evil beasts, lazy gluttons.”
Paul quotes a proverbial saying of one of the prophets of Crete. Prophets has the sense of a famous teacher recognized by the local people. In today’s usage, we might put quote marks around it, showing that this is not a real prophet of God but a person serving as a kind of spokesperson recognized by a group. The source of this saying is debated, but the application is clear. This saying was well known enough that Paul knew it. Crete had a certain reputation embodied in this short statement. Paul may be making a generalized statement here, but the three characteristics given here could fit what the opponents were doing.
First, they are deceitful in their teachings. They do not teach the truth but are deceptive liars who trick people into believing what they want. Paul will highlight some of these issues in the following verses. The new leaders in the church must be honest. If the elders stick to the truth of the gospel and not their own opinions, they will be able to guide people on the right path of righteousness. The opponents who had infiltrated the church could not be trusted because they were teaching their own opinions.
Second, the false teachers were abusive like wild animals. What this abuse comprised can only be guessed, but it likely involved taking advantage of people in some way. There are many ways to do this through verbal coercion. People who are seeking truth might believe someone who comes across as authoritative or knowledgeable about a topic. This happens all the time today in the media. People are easily swayed and coerced into believing certain narratives created by crafty orators.
Third, these opponents were lazy gluttons with an uncontrollable appetite for gain. They are in the ministry for selfish reasons. There is a strong temptation for leaders to seek the praise of people. It helps them feel important and empowered to push forward their agenda. Christian leaders must be humble, like Jesus. They must be willing to give up comforts in order to serve. They will control various appetites of the flesh. The flesh must be crucified and kept under the control and guidance of the Holy Spirit.
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