What does Titus 2:2 mean?

That the aged men be sober, grave, temperate, sound in faith, in charity, in patience. Titus 2:2

Explanation

Titus 2:2 instructs that older men in the Christian community should exhibit a series of virtuous characteristics. The verse states that they should be “sober, grave, temperate, sound in faith, in charity, in patience.” These qualities outline a standard of behavior that demonstrates maturity and self-control, which are expected to accompany age and experience. The literal sense is an exhortation to live in a manner that is respectable and exemplary.

• “Sober” suggests they should not be given to excesses, particularly with regards to alcohol, but it can also encompass a broader moderation in all aspects of life.
• “Grave” indicates seriousness, indicating that they should not be frivolous or overly lighthearted about life’s important aspects, valuing what truly matters.
• “Temperate” means self-restrained or disciplined, especially in appetites and passions.
• “Sound in faith” implies they should be steadfast and unswerving in their belief in the teachings of Christianity.
• “In charity” refers to displaying love towards others, an essential Christian virtue.
• “In patience” suggests that they should be able to endure hardships and challenging situations without becoming discontented or irritable.

The verse emphasizes that inner spiritual qualities should manifest themselves in outward behavior, setting a standard that others in the community can look up to and emulate.

Historical Context

The Epistle to Titus, where this verse is found, is a letter in the New Testament traditionally believed to be written by the Apostle Paul to his fellow worker Titus. The historical context dates back to the first century A.D., where Titus is left in Crete to lead the church and set in order the things that were lacking. Crete had a cultural background infamous for moral laxity and dishonesty. Thus, the call for virtuous living among the Cretan believers was countercultural. This verse is part of a broader set of instructions that includes advice for various groups within the church.

Theological Insights

Different theological viewpoints find agreement on the ethical exhortation of this verse. From a conservative viewpoint, the verse is seen as prescriptive, directing behavior that aligns with Christian teachings. A liberal perspective might focus on the aspirational qualities promoted here, recognizing that these virtues reflect the transformative power of Christian living. Liberation theology could interpret this as a call for the senior members of the community to use their influence for the betterment of society and to advocate for justice and love in practical terms.

Practical Applications

This verse provides a blueprint for the behavior of older men within the Christian context, but it also has applications that can be generalized to broader society. It speaks to the universal virtues of moderation, respectability, discipline, firm belief, love, and patience that can enhance personal character and community life. Such traits remain aspirational for people of all ages and can lead to more harmonious relationships and a stable society.

Cross-References

• 1 Timothy 3:2 – “A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach;”
• 1 Timothy 5:1-2 – “Rebuke not an elder, but intreat him as a father; and the younger men as brethren; The elder women as mothers; the younger as sisters, with all purity.”
• Galatians 5:22-23 – “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.”
• 2 Peter 1:5-6 – “And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness;”

Language Study

Key words in the original Greek text of this verse include:

• “Sober” (νηφάλιος – nephalios): Literally means sober, abstaining from wine, either entirely or at least from its immoderate use.
• “Grave” (σεμνός – semnos): Meaning honorable or dignified; conveys the implication of dignity that inspires respect.
• “Temperate” (σώφρων – sophron): Suggests self-control or sound-mindedness, having control over one’s desires and passions.
• “Sound in faith” (ὑγιαίνων ἐν πίστει – hugiainon en pistei): A term which means to be healthy or wholesome in the faith, uncompromising and consistent in belief.
• “Charity” (ἐν ἀγάπῃ – en agape): Refers to love, especially brotherly love, love of one’s fellow believers, or more broadly, the love that God shows to mankind.
• “Patience” (ὑπομονή – hupomone): Meaning steadfastness, constancy, or endurance; it is the characteristic of a person who is unswerved from their deliberate purpose and their loyalty to faith and piety even amidst the greatest trials and sufferings.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Cultural and religious comparisons show similarities in other traditions where elders are expected to exhibit certain virtues. For instance, in Confucianism, the concept of “ren” is close to the Christian virtue of charity, emphasizing benevolence and human-heartedness. Also, Stoicism, a significant philosophy in the Hellenistic world, emphasized self-control and correct living very much in line with the temperance called for in Titus 2:2.

Scientific Perspectives

Modern psychology might align with the virtues detailed in Titus 2:2 from the perspective of emotional intelligence and maturity. Research supports the idea that virtues like self-control, patience, and love (or social bonding) play a central role in individual well-being and societal cohesion. Older adults are often looked towards for their wisdom, which is acquired through a lifetime of experiences that foster such virtues.

commentaries

Commentaries offer various interpretations of Titus 2:2:

• John Calvin saw it as a guide for church leaders on how to conduct their lives, so that they could be examples to the flock.
• Matthew Henry interpreted the verse within the context of family and church life, noting that the elder men’s maturity should act as a stabilizing force within these realms.
• The Pulpit Commentary emphasizes the cultural context of Crete, suggesting that these instructions were particularly necessary given the corrupt environment of the Cretan society.
• Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary often focuses on the practical aspects, highlighting how these virtues can enhance the influence of the church within the world.