The Cultural Mandate According to Paul’s Letter to Titus: Brief Exegetical-Theological Meditations

Abstract

While discussions of the ‘cultural mandate’ persist, there has been little reflection on the topic from the perspective of the Pastorals. Accordingly, this essay interacts with a recent study on the subject in light of Paul’s Letter to Titus. Specifically, it provides exegetical support for the neo-Calvinist view of the ‘cultural mandate’ from this overlooked source. In the process, this study elucidates one of the letter’s main theological themes, namely the summons to be ‘zealous for good works’ (2:14).