But avoid foolish controversies, genealogies, dissensions, and quarrels about the law, for they are unprofitable and worthless. As for a person who stirs up division, after warning him once and then twice, have nothing more to do with him, knowing that such a person is warped and sinful; he is self-condemned.
When I send Artemas or Tychicus to you, do your best to come to me at Nicopolis, for I have decided to spend the winter there. Do your best to speed Zenas the lawyer and Apollos on their way; see that they lack nothing. And let our people learn to devote themselves to good works, so as to help cases of urgent need, and not be unfruitful.
All who are with me send greetings to you. Greet those who love us in the faith.
Grace be with you all.
Comment: This is a very short succinct epistle, almost as if Paul had to catch the last post or carrier pigeon. But he makes himself clear. There is enough real work to be done – so don’t waste your time on profitless talk. Similarly if all a person wants to do is argue or stir up strife show them the exit door. Then follow a few local details about Titus coming to Paul and the possibility of other messengers coming to Crete. The greeting is brief but one feels that it is sincere and with an assumption of reciprocated concern and love.
Prayer: Help me to live life to the full in Your service, O God.
As I read it! 
Thank you Barry for your comments on this passage. It is most interesting that Paul speaks of “steering clear of stupid arguments, genealogies, controversies and quarrels over the law.” (JB Phillips translation). As you wrote, don’t waste your time on these fruitless topics. Also to reject those who do talk of these things. In other words, do not tolerate them. So as Christians, there are things which we should NOT tolerate, in this instance. God bless you.
LikeLike