<p>1:4 <i>To Titus, my true child</i>- There is no evidence that Paul had converted or baptized Titus. But clearly Paul had much influence in his life. Timothy was likewise Paul's son in the faith (1 Tim. 1:2) although it was due to Eunice and Lois that Timothy had come to faith. This shows that our pastoral efforts for others can make them just as much our children in the faith; and these are the family ties which shall last eternally. &quot;My <i>own </i>child&quot; (AV) would suggest that there was some unique influence of Paul upon Titus, just as in natural families.</p><p><i>After a common faith- </i>Whoever is baptized after believing the doctrines of the true Gospel is our brother or sister- regardless of who baptized them, or what name they go under. Titus was Paul's son &quot;after the common (Gk. <i>koinos</i>) faith&quot; (Tit. 1:4 AV). The faith, the doctrines which he had been taught by Paul and been baptized upon believing, were what had made him Paul's son; and therefore that faith was what bound them together in fellowship. The Faith in Jesus, as in the basic doctrines which make baptism valid, are the basis of our commonality, our fellowship, with each other. Perhaps Paul is saying that Titus had become his son due to the Gospel, i.e. he had converted him. But see above.</p><p><i>Grace and peace </i><i>from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Saviour</i><i>- </i>AV &quot;Grace, mercy and peace&quot;. Peace with God comes from knowing His mercy in forgiving us, and that is because of His grace. Paul wished that Titus would feel this; there was real meaning in this otherwise standard greeting.</p>