What does Titus 2:3 mean?

The aged women likewise, that they be in behaviour as becometh holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things; Titus 2:3

Explanation

The verse Titus 2:3 is part of a letter from Paul to Titus, providing directives on how various groups within the church should conduct themselves. For aged women, Paul prescribes a behavior that is consistent with holiness. These instructions include avoiding slander (“not false accusers”) and excessive drinking (“not given to much wine”). Additionally, aged women are called to be “teachers of good things,” suggesting they have a responsibility to instruct others in virtuous living. This implies they should set an example and use their experience to guide younger members of the community.

Historical Context

Titus 2:3 is positioned within a pastoral epistle, attributed to Paul and written to Titus, a Greek believer whom Paul considered his own son in the common faith. The letter’s intention was to guide Titus in setting up church order and in instructing various groups within the Cretan church. During this time, the early Christian community was grappling with its identity in a predominantly pagan society, and there was a need for establishing guidelines that would distinguish Christian conduct from the surrounding culture.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, this verse reflects the Christian value of sanctification, which is the process of becoming more holy and Christ-like. The aged women in the church are called to embody and teach this sanctification process. The call to teach “good things” can be seen as aligning with the scriptural teachings of virtue, wisdom, and love. The emphasis on behavior is indicative of the belief that faith must be demonstrated through actions.

Practical Applications

Practically, Titus 2:3 encourages older women in the Christian faith to mentor younger women, advocating that their life experiences be used to cultivate healthy, godly lifestyles within the community. Avoiding behaviors that could lead to social discord or personal harm (like gossiping and excessive drinking) can be applied today by engaging in constructive conversations and encouraging moderation in all aspects of life.

Cross-References

• 1 Timothy 3:11: “Even so must their wives be grave, not slanderers, sober, faithful in all things.”
• Proverbs 31:26: “She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness.”
• Ephesians 5:18: “And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit;”

Language Study

Key words in this passage such as “aged women” (Greek: presbytidas), “behavior” (Greek: katastema), “holiness” (Greek: hieroprepes), “false accusers” (Greek: diabolous), and “teachers” (Greek: didaskalous) reveal nuances in meaning. For example, “holiness” (hieroprepes) indicates a demeanor fitting for sacred purposes, not just outward piety, but an inward appropriateness to sacred things. “False accusers” (diabolous) can also be translated as “slanderers” or “devils,” emphasizing the destructive nature of such speech.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In the broader Greco-Roman culture, women, especially older women, often held roles of influence within the family and community. Similarly, in other religious traditions such as Judaism, women were also regarded as teachers within the home. Paul’s instructions resonate with a pattern where wisdom and teaching are valued traits among older members of a society, but with a specific Christian emphasis on holiness and communal upbuilding.

Scientific Perspectives

Scientifically, the admonition against excessive wine consumption aligns with modern understandings of the health risks associated with alcohol abuse. Additionally, research in behavioral science supports the idea that role models and mentors, such as what this verse suggests for older women, are critical for the socialization and development of younger individuals within a community.

Commentaries

Biblical commentators offer various insights on Titus 2:3. Some emphasize the cultural relevance of Paul addressing aged women directly in a society where they were often overlooked. Others focus on the practical aspect of this verse, which encourages a proactive role for older women within the church. Commentators like John Calvin highlight the importance of aged women setting an example in speech, sobriety, and faithfulness. Contemporary theologians may explore how these instructions relate to the ongoing discussion of gender roles within the church today.