To Titus,—Paul wrote this epistle to Titus but it is valid for Christians of every generation. [mine] own son after the common faith: — It is likely that Paul converted Titus on his first missionary journey. Paul exhibits his great love for Titus both with this familial greeting and with the blessings that he sends which follow. Grace,—Grace is that which God gives that has not been earned. Paul both begins and ends this letter by asking for grace upon Titus. Likewise, Paul greets Timothy and Philemon in the epistles written to each of these men. mercy, — Mercy is the favor that God distributes when it is punishment that is deserved. But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us (Ephesians 2:4). [and] peace— Peace is the serenity of spirit that one has when he is in a right relationship with God. Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ (Romans 5:1): from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ our Saviour.—Paul is asking this threefold blessing of grace, mercy and truth to be bestowed upon Titus and his work everything that is good comes from God.