“That the older men be sober, reverent, temperate, sound in faith, in love, in patience.” (Titus 2:2, NKJV)

Older men, older women, young men, and slaves are exhorted to be so faithful to the natural obligations of their status in life that the critics of their religion might be silenced. Titus has to adapt his teachings to the special character of different classes of his hearers.

Image courtesy of olivetree.com

The major issue in this letter is influence of the false teachers. Here, they are indicted as being “unfit to do anything good.” The best way to fight false teachings is to teach positive instruction in Christian faith and its moral application. It will produce spiritual growth and right character in all groups alike, regardless of age or social status. Older men, for for instance, should set an example of a well balanced Christian life.

A well balanced life means you are not given to wine (sober, not a drunkard), dignified or behaving with reverent propriety, self-restrained, and with so much faith, charity and patience. These are products of ripened experience and the trials that the old men have overcome.

References:

Bible Gateway. http://www.biblegayeway.com

Halley’s Bible Handbook. ePub Format. Grand Rapids Michigan: Zondervan, 2000.

MySword for Android. Riversoft Ministry, 2011-2019.

Olive Tree Bible Software. olivetree.com

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