Titus 2:2
Older men are to be temperate, dignified, self-controlled, and sound in faith, love, and perseverance.
Older men
The Greek term used here is "πρεσβύτας" (presbytās), which refers to men who are advanced in age. In the cultural context of the early church, older men were expected to be leaders and examples within the community. Their life experiences and wisdom were invaluable for guiding younger generations. The role of older men in the church is to embody the virtues that Paul outlines, serving as pillars of strength and stability.

are to be
This phrase indicates a present and ongoing expectation. The Greek verb "εἶναι" (einai) suggests a state of being that is continuous. It is not merely a suggestion but a directive for how older men should conduct themselves consistently. This ongoing state of being reflects the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in a believer's life, emphasizing that these qualities are not just aspirational but attainable through divine grace.

temperate
The Greek word "νηφάλιος" (nēphalios) means sober-minded or clear-headed. It implies a life free from excess, particularly in relation to alcohol, but also in broader terms of moderation in all things. This quality is crucial for maintaining a balanced and rational approach to life, allowing older men to make wise decisions and offer sound counsel.

dignified
The term "σεμνός" (semnos) conveys a sense of respectability and honor. It suggests a demeanor that commands respect, not through authoritarianism, but through integrity and moral uprightness. In the historical context, dignity was a highly valued trait, reflecting a person's character and standing within the community.

self-controlled
The Greek "σώφρων" (sōphrōn) refers to a disciplined and prudent lifestyle. Self-control is a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:23) and is essential for living a life that is pleasing to God. It involves mastery over one's desires and impulses, ensuring that actions are aligned with godly principles.

sound in faith
The word "ὑγιαίνω" (hygiainō) means healthy or whole. In this context, it refers to a robust and unwavering faith. Older men are called to have a faith that is not only intellectually sound but also deeply rooted in their relationship with God. This soundness in faith provides a foundation for the other virtues and is a source of strength in times of trial.

love
The Greek "ἀγάπη" (agapē) is the highest form of love, characterized by selflessness and sacrifice. It is the love that God shows to humanity and that believers are called to emulate. For older men, being sound in love means demonstrating this unconditional love in their interactions with others, serving as a reflection of Christ's love.

and perseverance
The term "ὑπομονή" (hypomonē) signifies endurance and steadfastness. It is the ability to remain faithful and committed despite challenges and hardships. Perseverance is a testament to a mature faith that has been tested and refined over time. Older men, through their life experiences, are to model this perseverance, encouraging others to remain steadfast in their walk with Christ.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Titus
A young pastor and a trusted companion of the Apostle Paul, tasked with organizing the church in Crete and ensuring sound doctrine.

2. Paul
The Apostle who wrote the letter to Titus, providing guidance on church leadership and Christian living.

3. Crete
An island in the Mediterranean where Titus was stationed to lead and instruct the early Christian community.

4. Older Men
The demographic group within the church that Paul specifically addresses in this verse, emphasizing their role as examples of Christian maturity.

5. The Early Church
The context in which these instructions were given, highlighting the need for order and godly living among believers.
Teaching Points
Temperance and Self-Control
Older men are called to exhibit restraint and moderation in all aspects of life. This involves being sober-minded and avoiding excesses that can lead to moral and spiritual compromise.

Dignity and Respect
Living a life that commands respect through honorable behavior is crucial. This involves maintaining a reputation that reflects the character of Christ.

Sound in Faith, Love, and Perseverance
These three virtues are foundational to Christian maturity. Being "sound" implies being healthy and robust in one's spiritual life, grounded in faith, motivated by love, and enduring through trials.

Role Models for Younger Generations
Older men have the responsibility to mentor and guide younger believers, demonstrating what it means to live a life devoted to God.

Consistency in Christian Living
The call to perseverance highlights the importance of remaining steadfast in one's faith journey, regardless of life's challenges.
Bible Study Questions
1. How can older men in the church today exemplify the qualities of temperance, dignity, and self-control in their daily lives?

2. In what ways can the virtues of faith, love, and perseverance be cultivated and demonstrated within the church community?

3. How do the instructions given to older men in Titus 2:2 relate to the qualifications for church leaders found in 1 Timothy 3:2-7?

4. What practical steps can older men take to mentor and influence younger generations in their faith journey?

5. How does the call to be "sound in faith, love, and perseverance" challenge you personally in your current walk with Christ?
Connections to Other Scriptures
1 Timothy 3:2-7
This passage outlines the qualifications for overseers and deacons, emphasizing similar virtues such as temperance, dignity, and self-control.

Galatians 5:22-23
The fruit of the Spirit includes qualities like love, self-control, and faithfulness, which align with the virtues Paul encourages in older men.

1 Peter 5:1-3
Peter also addresses elders, urging them to be examples to the flock, which parallels Paul's instructions to older men in Titus.
Aged Christian MenW.M. Statham Titus 2:2
Behaviour Suitable for the AgedW. Attersoll.Titus 2:2
If Age be Blended with Naughtiness, the Older the WorseT. Adams.Titus 2:2
Suitable Characteristics for the AgedH. R. Reynolds, D. D.Titus 2:2
The Duties of Aged MenT. Croskery Titus 2:2
The Duty of Old MenT. Taylor, D. D.Titus 2:2
The Limit of Law and ReasonJ. O. Dykes, D. D.Titus 2:2
The Temptations and Duties of Old MenF. Wagstaff.Titus 2:2
The Theological Use of Old AgeJ. Halsey.Titus 2:2
Genuine MoralityD. Thomas Titus 2:1-10
People
Paul, Titus
Places
Crete
Topics
Aged, Bid, Charity, Controlled, Dignified, Discreet, Elder, Endurance, Exhort, Faith, Grave, Love, Mind, Minded, Older, Patience, Perseverance, Quiet, Respect, Robust, Self, Sensible, Serious, Simple, Sober, Sober-minded, Steadfastness, Tastes, Temperate, Wise, Worthy
Dictionary of Bible Themes
Titus 2:2

     2060   Christ, patience of
     5714   men
     5726   old age, attainment
     8020   faith
     8292   love
     8339   self-control
     8340   self-respect
     8369   worthiness
     8418   endurance
     8471   respect, for human beings

Titus 2:1-5

     5707   male and female

Titus 2:1-10

     5217   authority, in church
     7797   teaching
     8235   doctrine, nature of

Titus 2:1-14

     5965   temperament

Titus 2:1-15

     7756   preaching, content

Titus 2:2-3

     8337   reverence, and behaviour

Titus 2:2-5

     5725   old age

Titus 2:2-8

     8307   moderation

Library
October 19. "Denying Ungodliness" (Titus ii. 12).
"Denying ungodliness" (Titus ii. 12). Let us say, "No," to the flesh, the world and the love of self, and learn that holy self-denial in which consists so much of the life of obedience. Make no provision for the flesh; give no recognition to your lower life. Say "No" to everything earthly and selfish. How very much of the life of faith consists in simply denying ourselves. We begin with one great "Yes," to God, and then we conclude with an eternal "No," to ourselves, the world, the flesh and the
Rev. A. B. Simpson—Days of Heaven Upon Earth

God's True Treasure in Man
'The Lord's portion is His people; Jacob is the lot of His inheritance.'--DEUT, xxxii.9. 'Jesus Christ (Who) gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto Himself a peculiar people.'--TITUS ii. 14. I choose these two texts because they together present us with the other side of the thought to that which I have elsewhere considered, that man's true treasure is in God. That great axiom of the religious consciousness, which pervades the whole of Scripture, is rapturously
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

Good Works
"Zealous of good works." There are some who hear us preach high doctrine, and constantly declare that we are saved by grace through faith, and that not of ourselves, it is the gift of God, who, therefore, suppose that we cannot preach good works, and that we could not preach a good sermon of exhortation to Christians, to live in holiness. Well, we will not say that we can preach a good sermon, but we will say that we will try and preach one as to that matter that shall be as good as theirs, and as
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 2: 1856

Christ's Marvellous Giving
"Who gave himself for us."--Titus 2:14. WE have once more, you see, the old subject. We still have to tell the story of the love of God towards man in the person of his only begotten Son, Jesus Christ. When you come to your table you find a variety there. Sometimes there is one dish upon it, and sometimes another; but you are never at all surprised to find the bread there every time, and, perhaps, we might add that there would be a deficiency if there were not salt there every time too. So there
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 62: 1916

Holiness
Holiness an attribute of God. "Who is like unto thee, O Lord, among the gods? who is like thee, glorious in holiness, fearful in praises, doing wonders?"--Ex. 15:11. "And one cried unto another, and said, Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord of hosts: the whol
J. W. Byers—Sanctification

The Doctrine Adorned
But shewing all good fidelity; that they may adorn the doctrine of God our Saviour in all things.' (Titus ii. 10.) Those of us who are specially interested in this great work often seek for plans by which the knowledge and enjoyment of a Full Salvation may be extended. I think I have found a good plan for helping the Kingdom forward, and I see it in this little sentence which Paul wrote to Titus: 'That they may adorn the doctrine of God our Saviour in all things'. When I say that is a plan for
T. H. Howard—Standards of Life and Service

Salvation.
Salvation is the song that was to be sung by the redeemed in that day. "Behold now is the day." Our salvation has come. "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth, peace, good will toward men." Salvation means deliverance. A prophecy concerning the Christ--our salvation--says: "He hath sent me to bind up the broken-hearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound." Isa. 61:1. Christ our Savior came to deliver us from the prison-house of sin. In the
Charles Ebert Orr—The Gospel Day

The Gospel of John
As we turn to the fourth Gospel we come to entirely different ground from that which we have traversed in the other three. True, the period of time which is covered by it, is the same as in the others; true, that some of the incidents that have already been looked at will here come before us again; and true it is that he who has occupied the central position in the narratives of the first three Evangelists, is the same One that is made preeminent by John; but otherwise, everything here is entirely
Arthur W. Pink—Why Four Gospels?

External Form of the New Testament.
1. The writings of the New Testament fall into three main divisions; the historical, the epistolary, and the prophetical, the latter including only the Apocalypse. This distinction is not to be understood in an absolute sense; since, as every reader knows, there are prophetical passages in the historical books, and both historical and prophetical in the epistles; but it gives with accuracy the general character of each division. In outward form the Apocalypse is epistolary, being addressed,
E. P. Barrows—Companion to the Bible

Whether Drink is the Matter of Sobriety?
Objection 1: It would seem that drink is not the matter proper to sobriety. For it is written (Rom. 12:3): "Not to be more wise than it behooveth to be wise, but to be wise unto sobriety." Therefore sobriety is also about wisdom, and not only about drink. Objection 2: Further, concerning the wisdom of God, it is written (Wis. 8:7) that "she teacheth sobriety [Douay: 'temperance'], and prudence, and justice, and fortitude," where sobriety stands for temperance. Now temperance is not only about drink,
Saint Thomas Aquinas—Summa Theologica

Whether Priests Alone have the Keys?
Objection 1: It would seem that not only priests have the keys. For Isidore says (Etym. vii, 12) that the "doorkeepers have to tell the good from the bad, so as to admit the good and keep out the bad." Now this is the definition of the keys, as appears from what has been said ([4874]Q[17], A[2]). Therefore not only priests but even doorkeepers have the keys. Objection 2: Further, the keys are conferred on priests when by being anointed they receive power from God. But kings of Christian peoples also
Saint Thomas Aquinas—Summa Theologica

Whether one who is under Another's Power Can Give Alms?
Objection 1: It would seem that one who is under another's power can give alms. For religious are under the power of their prelates to whom they have vowed obedience. Now if it were unlawful for them to give alms, they would lose by entering the state of religion, for as Ambrose [*The quotation is from the works of Ambrosiaster. Cf. Index to ecclesiastical authorities quoted by St. Thomas] says on 1 Tim. 4:8: "'Dutifulness [Douay: 'godliness'] is profitable to all things': The sum total of the Christian
Saint Thomas Aquinas—Summa Theologica

Whether Christ's Birth Should have Been Made Known to All?
Objection 1: It would seem that Christ's birth should have been made known to all. Because fulfilment should correspond to promise. Now, the promise of Christ's coming is thus expressed (Ps. 49:3): "God shall come manifestly. But He came by His birth in the flesh." Therefore it seems that His birth should have been made known to the whole world. Objection 2: Further, it is written (1 Tim. 1:15): "Christ came into this world to save sinners." But this is not effected save in as far as the grace of
Saint Thomas Aquinas—Summa Theologica

Whether Goodness of Life is Required of those who Receive Orders?
Objection 1: It would seem that goodness of life is not required of those who receive Orders. For by Orders a man is ordained to the dispensation of the sacraments. But the sacraments can be administered by good and wicked. Therefore goodness of life is not requisite. Objection 2: Further, the service of God in the sacraments is no greater than service offered to Him in the body. Now our Lord did not cast aside the sinful and notorious woman from rendering Him a bodily service (Lk. 7). Therefore
Saint Thomas Aquinas—Summa Theologica

Whether Sobriety is More Requisite in Persons of Greater Standing?
Objection 1: It would seem that sobriety is more requisite in persons of greater standing. For old age gives a man a certain standing; wherefore honor and reverence are due to the old, according to Lev. 19:32, "Rise up before the hoary head, and honor the person of the aged man." Now the Apostle declares that old men especially should be exhorted to sobriety, according to Titus 2:2, "That the aged man be sober." Therefore sobriety is most requisite in persons of standing. Objection 2: Further, a
Saint Thomas Aquinas—Summa Theologica

Just as I Am. L. M.
So let our lips and lives express The holy gospel we profess; So let our works and virtues shine To prove the doctrine all divine. 2 Thus shall we best proclaim abroad The honors of our Savior God; When his salvation reigns within, And grace subdues the power of sin. 3 Religion bears our spirits up, While we expect that blessed hope,-- The bright appearance of the Lord; And faith stands leaning on his word. Isaac Watts, 1709.
Edmund S. Lorenz—The Otterbein Hymnal

Holiness and Grace. Titus 2:10-13.
Holiness and grace. Titus 2:10-13. O let our lips and lives express The holy gospel we profess; So let our works and virtues shine, To prove the doctrine all divine. Thus shall we best proclaim abroad The honors of our Savior God; When the salvation reigns within, And grace subdues the power of sin. Our flesh and sense must be denied, Passion and envy, lust and pride; While justice, temp'rance, truth, and love, Our inward piety approve. Religion bears our spirits up, While we expect that blessed
Isaac Watts—The Psalms and Hymns of Isaac Watts

Our Hope is not Death.
Of all the extravagant and absurd interpretations of Scripture which have found a place among sober expositors is the belief that Death is the Hope which God has set before the believer. How it ever came to find acceptance it is difficult to say. It is true that there are a number of passages which speak of the Lord returning suddenly and unexpectedly, but to make the words "At such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh" and "Behold I come as a thief in the night" mean that death may steal
Arthur W. Pink—The Redeemer's Return

Our Hope is the Personal Return of Our Redeemer.
"Jesus Christ our hope" (1 Tim. 1:1). Jesus Christ is the believer's "all in all" (Col. 3:11). He is "our peace" (Eph. 2:14). He is "our life" (Col. 3:14). He is "made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption" (1 Cor. 1:30). And, we repeat, He is "our Hope." But hope always looks forward. Hope has to do with the future. "We are saved in hope: but hope that is seen is not hope: for what a man seeth, why doth he yet hope for? But if we hope for that we see not, then do
Arthur W. Pink—The Redeemer's Return

The Blessedness of Our Hope.
It is both interesting and profitable to notice the several adjectives which are used in connection with the believer's Hope. In 2 Thess. 2:16 it is termed a "good hope." In Heb. 6:19 it is described as a hope "both sure and steadfast." In 1 Pet. 1:3 it is denominated "a living hope." In Eph. 4:4 it is styled the "one hope" of our calling. While in Titus 2:13 it is spoken of as blessed hope." The blessedness of our Hope is that which is now particularly to engage our attention. In what respects is
Arthur W. Pink—The Redeemer's Return

The Hope of the Redeemer's Return
In 1 Cor. 13:13 we learn there are three cardinal Christian graces namely, faith, hope, and love. Concerning the first and third of these, believers, generally, are well informed, but regarding the second, many of the Lord's people have the vaguest conceptions. When Christians are questioned upon the subject of Faith they are, for the most part, able to answer promptly and intelligently; but interrogate the average church-member about the believer's Hope, and his replies are indistinct and uncertain.
Arthur W. Pink—The Redeemer's Return

If any one Shall Teach a Slave, under Pretext of Piety...
If any one shall teach a slave, under pretext of piety, to despise his master and to run away from his service, and not to serve his own master with good-will and all honour, let him be anathema. Notes. Ancient Epitome of Canon III. Anathema to him who persuades a slave to leave his master under pretence of religion. Van Espen. This canon is framed in accordance with the doctrine of the Apostle, in I. Timothy, chapter six, verse 1. "Let as many servants as are under the yoke count their own masters
Philip Schaff—The Seven Ecumenical Councils

"Who Walk not after the Flesh, but after the Spirit. "
Rom. viii. 1.--"Who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit." It is one of the greatest mysteries in a Christian's practice, to join these two together, which the gospel hath conjoined,--justification and sanctification, and to place them in their due order. There is much miscarrying in both these, if they are either separated or misplaced. But the truth is, they cannot really be, except they be jointly. Yet, often it falls out, that in men's apprehensions and endeavours, they are disjoined.
Hugh Binning—The Works of the Rev. Hugh Binning

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