In contrast to the false teachers, Titus was to “speak the things which belong to healthy doctrine” (Titus 2:1, literal translation). What germs are to a physical body, false teaching is to a spiritual body, the church. In the verses that make up this section, you will find a blending of doctrinal teaching and practical admonition, for the two must go together. Paul discussed several different areas of ministry in the local church.
The Older Saints (2:1–4a) How easy it would be for a younger man like Titus to misunderstand or even neglect the older members of his congregation.
“I want a church of young people!” a pastor once said to me, forgetting that one day he would be old himself. A church needs both the old and the young, and they should minister to one another. The grace of God enables us to bridge the generation gap in the church. One way to do this is for all members, young and old, to live up to the standards that God has set for our lives.
The older men were to be sober, which means “to be temperate in the use of wine.” Old men with time on their hands could linger too long over the cup.
Grave means “dignified,” but it does not suggest a solemn person who never laughs. There is a dignity to old age that produces respect, and this respect gives an older saint authority. How I thank God for the venerable saints who have assisted me in my own pastoral ministry! When they stood to speak, the whole church listened and took heed.
Temperate describes an attitude of mind that leads to prudence and self-control in life. It is the opposite of frivolity and carelessness that are based on ignorance. It is translated “sober” in Titus 1: and 2:4, 6, and 12, and “discreet” in 2:5. Seriousness of life and purpose are important in the Christian life, and especially to older saints who cannot afford to waste time, for their time is short.
Sound in faith, in love, in patience all go together. The older men should know what they believe, and their doctrinal convictions should accord with God’s Word. For a knowledge of Bible doctrine is no substitute for the other necessary virtues, such as love for the brethren and patience in the trials of life. In fact, a right faith in God’s Word should encourage a believer in love and endurance.
Possibly the word likewise in Titus 2: means that the older women were to have the same qualities as the older men, plus the additional ones listed. The deportment (behavior) of these older women must always reflect holiness. They must not be slanderers (“false accusers”—the Greek word is “devils,” which means “slanderers”), picking up gossip and spreading it. They must also be temperate in their use of wine.
When it comes to the older women, Paul’s emphasis is on teaching: “teachers of good things.” Experienced, godly women are usually excellent teachers. The word teach in Titus 2: is related to the word translated “temperate” in Titus 2:2, and probably should be translated, “that they may train by making sober-minded.” It is not only that the older women should show the younger mothers how to keep house, but that they put within their hearts and minds the right spiritual and mental attitudes.
One of the strongest forces for spiritual ministry in the local church lies with the older believers. Those who are retired have time for service. It is good to see that many local churches have organized and mobilized these important people. In my own ministry, I have been greatly helped by senior saints who knew how to pray, teach the Word, visit, troubleshoot, and help build the church.