The elders had a leading role in teaching the community. This may have been necessary in dealing with the immediate threat to these particular communities (as also in Ephesus; see 1 Timothy 3:1).
Only with a strong belief in the good news would an elder be able to provide sound teaching. Paul’s specific concerns are addressed in Titus 2:1–3:11, considering the problems mentioned in 1:10–16 and 3:9–11 (see also 1 Timothy 1:10).
Titus had a similar role (compare Titus 1:13; 2:15; 3:10–11). The local leadership would continue the work Paul and his delegates started.
Those who oppose it are described in 1:10–16.