Paul identified himself as the author of the letter to Titus, calling himself a "bond-servant of God and an apostle of Jesus Christ" (Titus 1:1). The origin of Paul's relationship with Titus is shrouded in mystery, though we can gather that he may have been converted under the ministry of Paul, who called Titus "my true child in a common faith" (1:4). Titus accompanied Paul on his third missionary journey, during which the apostle sent him to Corinth at least once (2 Corinthians 2:12–13; 7:5–7, 13–15; 8:6, 16–24). Paul clearly held Titus in a position of great respect as a friend and fellow worker for the gospel, praising Titus for his affection, his earnestness, and his bringing comfort to others.