Definition: For this cause left I thee in Crete, that thou shouldest set in order the things that are wanting, and ordain elders in every city, as I had appointed thee:

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Titus 1:5. It's a really important message about leadership and responsibility! Here’s what it means, explained simply: The Basic Idea: This verse is telling us that God wants to help us in a specific place – Crete – and He’s entrusted us with the job of fixing things up and making sure things are running smoothly. It's like giving someone a big responsibility they need to handle. Let’s look at it piece by piece: "For this cause left I thee..." - This means that God has given us a task, a mission, or a job to do. He’s setting up a plan for us. "...in Crete..." – Crete was a city in ancient Greece (a region in Asia Minor). It's important because it's a place where the apostle Paul was sent and where he spent a significant amount of time. "...that thou shouldest set in order the things that are wanting..." – This is the core of the verse. "Setting in order" means to make things right, to clean up, to fix problems. "Things that are wanting" refers to things that aren’t quite right or working properly – maybe there's a lack of leadership, a lack of understanding, or something else needs attention. "...and ordain elders in every city..." – This means God is choosing people to be leaders and mentors for the churches in different cities. “Ordin” means to choose or select. "Elders" refers to wise and experienced men who can guide and teach the believers. "...as I had appointed thee:" – This is a really important part. It's saying that God specifically chose us to do this. It’s like saying, “God has given me this task and entrusted it to you.” In simpler terms: God wants us to take care of the churches in different places and make sure they are running well by appointing wise leaders. What does this mean for us ? This verse encourages us to: Be responsible: We have a role to play in helping the church grow and thrive. Lead with wisdom: It means we need to think carefully and make good decisions. Serve others: By appointing leaders, we’re showing God's care for his people. Does this help you understand what the verse is saying? Do you have any questions about it? For example, would you like me to explain a specific part in more detail?