2.1-15

Titus

In verse one, Paul's use of "speak" (present imperative tense) conveys to Titus that he understands he is already speaking and should continue. Verse two delivers the entire domain in which old men (those of an age such that they ought to be an example to younger men. Paul was over 60 and used this reflexively) should prove themselves to be leaders; faith, love, and perseverance (patience) - R.C.H. Lenski. Paul writes a similar emphasis on instruction from older women to younger women but delivers a 7-item list in vv.4-5. A strong justification for this instruction is that the Gospel, faith, and church will not be mocked. The temptation in verse nine is to justify the term "slave" for modern application, where that is unnecessary. The typical manner would be to say that today we should consider the admonition as that of an employee to his/her employer. The proper understanding is that Christians in subordinate roles cannot neglect to show forth with all good fidelity, a manner fully trusted to serve the interests of those appointed over us. This adorns the doctrine of God our Saviour in everything (v.10). Further, we should not hesitate to embrace the role of a slave, knowing we own nothing except that which God has given us. "For who regards you as superior? What do you have that you did not receive? And if you did receive it, why do you boast as if you had not received it?" (1 Cor 4:7)

CHAPTER 2

Instructions for the Older and Younger

1 But as for you, speak the things which are proper for sound doctrine.
2 Older men are to be temperate, dignified, sensible, sound in faith, in love, in perseverance.
3 Older women likewise are to be reverent in their behavior, not malicious gossips nor enslaved to much wine, teaching what is good,
4 so that they may instruct the young women in sensibility: to love their husbands, to love their children,
5 to be sensible, pure, workers at home, kind, being subject to their own husbands, so that the word of God will not be slandered.
6 Likewise urge the younger men to be sensible;
7 in all things show yourself to be a model of good works, with purity in doctrine, dignified,
8 sound in word which is irreproachable, so that the opponent will be put to shame, having nothing bad to say about us.
9 Urge slaves to be subject to their own masters in everything, to be pleasing, not contradicting,
10 not pilfering, but demonstrating all good faith so that they will adorn the doctrine of God our Savior in everything.
11 For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all men,
12 instructing us that, denying ungodliness and worldly desires, we should live sensibly, righteously, and godly in the present age,
13 looking for the blessed hope and the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ,
14 who gave Himself for us that He might redeem us from all lawlessness, and purify for Himself a people for His own possession, zealous for good works.
15 These things speak and exhort and reprove with all authority. Let no one disregard you.