Devote themselves to good works (Titus 3:14)

“Let our people learn

To devote themselves

To good works

In order to meet

The urgent needs.

Thus,

They may not be unproductive.”

μανθανέτωσαν δὲ καὶ οἱ ἡμέτεροι καλῶν ἔργων προΐστασθαι εἰς τὰς ἀναγκαίας χρείας, ἵνα μὴ ὦσιν ἄκαρποι.

Paul said, “Let our people (δὲ καὶ οἱ ἡμέτεροι) learn (μανθανέτωσαν) to devote themselves (προΐστασθαι) to good works (καλῶν ἔργων) in order to meet the urgent needs (εἰς τὰς ἀναγκαίας χρείας).  Thus, they may not be unproductive (ἵνα μὴ ὦσιν ἄκαρποι).”  Only the Pauline letters used this word προΐστασθαι, that means preside, rule over, give attention to, direct, maintain, or practice diligently.  Paul wanted Titus to insist these Christians learn to devote themselves to good works.  However, they should practice triage, by taking care of those with the most urgent needs or problems first.  Thus, they would be productive and not merely doing busy work.  Are you productive in your good works, helping those in the most need?