Titus 2:4

KJV

That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children,

KJV (with Strong's)

That {G2443} they may teach {G4994} the young women {G3501} to be {G1511} sober {G4994}, to love their husbands {G5362}, to love their children {G5388},

Complete Jewish Bible

thus training the younger women to love their husbands and children,

Berean Standard Bible

In this way they can train the young women to love their husbands and children,

American Standard Version

that they may train the young women to love their husbands, to love their children,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Paul's letter to Titus provides crucial guidance for establishing godly order and conduct within the Cretan church. Titus 2:4 specifically outlines the vital role of older women in discipling younger women, instructing them to cultivate self-control, to deeply love their husbands, and to nurture affectionate devotion towards their children. This instruction underscores the foundational importance of domestic virtues and intergenerational mentorship for the health and witness of the Christian community.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Titus 2:4 is an integral part of Paul's comprehensive instructions to Titus regarding the various demographics within the church on Crete. Following his charge to Titus to "teach what accords with [sound doctrine](/titus/2-1 "Titus 2:1 - Teaching Sound Doctrine")" in [Titus 2:1](/titus/2-1 "Titus 2:1 - Sound Doctrine"), Paul details specific behavioral expectations for older men ([Titus 2:2](/titus/2-2 "Titus 2:2 - Instructions for Older Men")), older women ([Titus 2:3](/titus/2-3 "Titus 2:3 - Instructions for Older Women")), and then, through the older women, for younger women. This verse thus functions as a direct extension of the older women's ministry, emphasizing that their "reverent in behavior" and "good" teaching ([Titus 2:3](/titus/2-3 "Titus 2:3 - Older Women's Conduct")) should translate into practical instruction for the next generation, particularly concerning their roles within the home and family. The subsequent verses continue this pattern, addressing younger men ([Titus 2:6-8](/titus/2-6-8 "Titus 2:6-8 - Instructions for Younger Men")) and bondservants ([Titus 2:9-10](/titus/2-9-10 "Titus 2:9-10 - Instructions for Bondservants")), all culminating in the overarching purpose of adorning the [doctrine of God our Savior](/titus/2-10 "Titus 2:10 - Adorning God's Doctrine").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Crete, at the time Paul wrote this letter, was notorious for its moral laxity and cultural excesses, as evidenced by the unflattering description in [Titus 1:12](/titus/1-12 "Titus 1:12 - Cretans' Character"). The Cretans were characterized as "always liars, evil beasts, lazy gluttons." In such an environment, the establishment of a counter-cultural Christian community, marked by integrity, self-control, and strong family units, was paramount. Paul's instructions directly address these societal challenges, aiming to transform individual lives and families into beacons of godliness. The emphasis on domestic virtues for women was particularly significant in a patriarchal society where the stability of the household was foundational to social order. The instruction for older women to teach younger women was a culturally appropriate and effective method for transmitting values and practical wisdom, especially given the limited formal educational opportunities for women.
* **Key Themes:** Titus 2:4 contributes significantly to several key themes within the letter and broader Pauline corpus. Firstly, it highlights **Intergenerational Discipleship**, emphasizing the crucial role of mature believers in mentoring and equipping younger ones, ensuring the continuity of faith and godly living across generations. This is not merely about abstract theological instruction but practical, lived wisdom. Secondly, the verse underscores the **Sanctity and Importance of the Christian Home and Family**. By calling younger women to love their husbands and children, Paul elevates the domestic sphere as a primary arena for Christian witness and spiritual growth, foundational to the health of the church and society. This aligns with Paul's consistent teaching on household codes in other epistles, such as [Ephesians 5:22-33](/ephesians/5-22-33 "Ephesians 5:22-33 - Wives and Husbands") and [Colossians 3:18-21](/colossians/3-18-21 "Colossians 3:18-21 - Wives, Husbands, and Children"). Thirdly, the command to be "sober" reinforces the theme of **Self-Control and Sound Mindedness**, which is a recurring virtue throughout [Titus 2](/titus/2 "Titus 2 - Godly Living"), presented as essential for all believers to live lives that honor God and commend the gospel.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **teach (Greek, _sōphronízō'_):** From G4994, meaning "to make of sound mind, i.e. (figuratively) to discipline or correct." This word, translated "teach" in the KJV, carries a deeper meaning than mere intellectual instruction. It implies training, admonishing, and bringing someone to a state of sound judgment and self-control. It's an active process of cultivating moral and spiritual discipline, leading to a balanced and sensible way of life. The older women are not just lecturing but shaping the character and conduct of the younger women.
* **love their husbands (Greek, _phílandros'_):** From G5362, a compound word from _philos_ (fond of) and _anēr_ (man, husband), meaning "fond of man, i.e. affectionate as a wife." This unique term specifically denotes a deep, affectionate, and devoted love for one's husband. It goes beyond mere duty or obligation, pointing to a genuine fondness and commitment that forms the bedrock of a healthy, Christ-honoring marriage. It implies a love that prioritizes the husband's well-being and flourishes within the marital covenant.
* **love their children (Greek, _philóteknos'_):** From G5388, a compound word from _philos_ (fond of) and _teknon_ (child), meaning "fond of one's children, i.e. maternal." Similar to _phílandros_, this term describes a specific, strong, and affectionate love for one's offspring. It encompasses the natural, nurturing, and devoted care that mothers (and parents) should have for their children, emphasizing the commitment to their upbringing, spiritual formation, and overall well-being. This love is essential for raising godly generations and fostering a stable, loving family environment.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"That they may teach the young women":** This opening clause establishes the purpose and agency of the older women's ministry. The conjunction "That" (G2443, _hína_) indicates a purpose clause, meaning the older women's exemplary conduct mentioned in [Titus 2:3](/titus/2-3 "Titus 2:3 - Older Women's Conduct") is precisely "in order that" they might effectively teach. The verb "teach" (_sōphronízō_) implies a process of training and cultivating sound judgment, not merely imparting information. The target audience is "the young women" (G3501, _néos_), indicating those who are less experienced, perhaps newly married, or beginning their families.
* **"to be sober,":** This is the first specific instruction for the younger women, deriving from the same root as the verb "teach" (_sōphronízō_). To "be sober" (G4994, _sōphronízō_ in a different grammatical form, or G1511 _eînai_ with G4994 _sōphrōn_ implied) means to be self-controlled, sensible, prudent, and of a sound mind. It refers to an inner disposition that governs outward behavior, promoting discretion, wisdom, and balance in all aspects of life, avoiding excesses or impulsivity. This virtue is foundational for all subsequent instructions.
* **"to love their husbands,":** This instruction emphasizes a profound and active affection for their spouses. The unique Greek word _phílandros_ (G5362) signifies a deep, devoted, and affectionate love that is specific to the marital relationship. It implies a commitment to cherishing, honoring, and prioritizing the husband, fostering a strong and enduring marital bond rooted in genuine fondness rather than mere duty.
* **"to love their children,":** Following the love for husbands, this clause highlights the equally important love for offspring. The Greek term _philóteknos_ (G5388) denotes a natural, strong, and affectionate love for one's children. It encompasses nurturing, caring, and guiding them, recognizing the vital role mothers play in the spiritual and emotional development of the next generation. This love is crucial for creating a stable and godly home environment.

#### Literary Devices
Paul's instruction in Titus 2:4 employs several literary techniques to convey its profound message. Primarily, it is a clear example of **Didacticism**, serving as direct, moral instruction from an apostle to a church leader for the benefit of the community. The structure of the verse itself, listing specific virtues, demonstrates **Parallelism**, particularly in the pairing of "to love their husbands" and "to love their children," which highlights the two primary spheres of domestic affection. The use of unique **Compound Words** like _phílandros_ ("husband-loving") and _philóteknos_ ("child-loving") is noteworthy. These terms are not generic words for love (like _agape_ or _philia_) but specifically crafted to denote a particular kind of affectionate devotion within the family unit, underscoring the precise nature of the love being commanded. Furthermore, the entire passage from [Titus 2:1-10](/titus/2-1-10 "Titus 2:1-10 - Instructions for Various Groups") functions as an extended **Exhortation**, a call to live out the implications of the gospel in practical, everyday life, with this verse specifically targeting the younger women's contribution to the overall godliness of the Cretan church.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Titus 2:4 profoundly connects to the broader biblical themes of discipleship, the sanctity of marriage and family, and the practical outworking of Christian faith. The emphasis on older women teaching younger women underscores the New Testament's vision for intergenerational spiritual formation, where maturity is not merely attained but actively transmitted. This process ensures the continuity of sound doctrine and godly living within the church. The specific virtues of loving husbands and children elevate the domestic sphere as a primary arena for Christian witness and obedience, demonstrating that faith is not confined to religious gatherings but permeates the most intimate relationships. These virtues are not merely social conventions but expressions of a transformed heart, reflecting God's own character of love and order. A healthy Christian family, built on these principles, becomes a powerful testimony to the gospel in a fallen world.

* [Proverbs 31:10-31](/proverbs/31-10-31 "Proverbs 31:10-31 - The Virtuous Woman")
* [Ephesians 5:22-24](/ephesians/5-22-24 "Ephesians 5:22-24 - Wives and Husbands")
* [1 Timothy 5:14](/1_timothy/5-14 "1 Timothy 5:14 - Younger Widows' Responsibilities")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Titus 2:4 offers timeless wisdom for Christian women and the church today. For younger women, it is a powerful reminder that true godliness begins in the home, expressed through intentional, sacrificial love for their husbands and children. This is not a lesser calling but a foundational one, essential for building strong families that reflect Christ's love and order. It challenges the modern tendency to devalue domestic roles, elevating them as spheres of spiritual significance and gospel witness. For older women, the verse serves as a direct mandate to actively engage in the lives of younger women, sharing wisdom, offering practical guidance, and modeling godly living. This intergenerational mentorship is crucial for the health and vitality of the church, preventing spiritual drift and ensuring that biblical truths are passed down through lived experience. For all believers, the call to "be sober" (self-controlled and sensible) is a universal principle, reminding us that a disciplined mind and spirit are prerequisites for all other virtues, enabling us to live wisely in a complex world.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How can older women in your community intentionally "teach" (disciple and train) younger women in practical ways, beyond formal settings?**
* **In what ways can a wife's love for her husband and a mother's love for her children be a powerful testimony to the gospel in today's society?**
* **What does it practically mean to "be sober" or self-controlled in your daily life, particularly in your relationships and responsibilities?**
* **How might the church better facilitate and celebrate the intergenerational mentorship described in this verse?**

### FAQ
**What does it mean for older women to "teach" younger women in this context?**

Answer: In Titus 2:4, the Greek word for "teach" (_sōphronízō_) means more than just imparting information. It implies training, admonishing, and bringing someone to a state of sound judgment and self-control. It's about cultivating moral and spiritual discipline through example, guidance, and practical instruction. Older women are called to mentor younger women not just in theological concepts, but in the practical outworking of faith in daily life, especially concerning marriage, parenting, and household management, helping them to live with discretion and wisdom. This kind of teaching is relational and life-on-life, shaping character and conduct.

**Why is "loving their husbands" and "loving their children" specifically highlighted for young women?**

Answer: Paul highlights these specific virtues because they are foundational to the health of the family unit, which in turn is foundational to the health and witness of the church. In the morally challenging context of Crete, strong, godly families were crucial for distinguishing believers from the surrounding culture. "Loving their husbands" (_phílandros_) emphasizes a deep, affectionate devotion that builds a strong marital bond, while "loving their children" (_philóteknos_) underscores the vital role of nurturing and raising the next generation in faith. These virtues demonstrate the transformative power of the gospel in the most intimate spheres of life, making the Christian faith attractive and credible to outsiders, as noted in [Titus 2:10](/titus/2-10 "Titus 2:10 - Adorning God's Doctrine").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Titus 2:4 directly addresses the conduct of Christian women, its ultimate fulfillment and underlying motivation are deeply rooted in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The virtues of sobriety, love for husbands, and love for children are not merely humanistic ideals but are empowered and transformed by the gospel. Christ Himself is the ultimate example of self-control and sacrificial love, demonstrating perfect obedience to the Father even to the point of death on the cross ([Philippians 2:8](/philippians/2-8 "Philippians 2:8 - Christ's Humility")). The love that younger women are called to exhibit for their husbands is a reflection of the church's submission to Christ ([Ephesians 5:22-24](/ephesians/5-22-24 "Ephesians 5:22-24 - Wives and Husbands")) and Christ's own sacrificial love for His bride ([Ephesians 5:25](/ephesians/5-25 "Ephesians 5:25 - Christ's Love for the Church")). Similarly, the nurturing love for children mirrors God's own paternal care for His people and Christ's tender regard for the little ones ([Matthew 19:14](/matthew/19-14 "Matthew 19:14 - Jesus Welcomes Children")). Thus, living out the commands of [Titus 2:4](/titus/2-4 "Titus 2:4 - Instructions for Young Women") is not merely about domestic bliss, but about adorning the "doctrine of God our Savior" ([Titus 2:10](/titus/2-10 "Titus 2:10 - Adorning God's Doctrine")), making the beauty and truth of the gospel visible through lives transformed by the grace of Jesus Christ. The older women teach, and the younger women live, in a manner that points to the redemptive work of the One who "gave himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to purify for himself a people for his own possession who are zealous for good works" ([Titus 2:14](/titus/2-14 "Titus 2:14 - Christ's Purpose for Us")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

1 Timothy 5:14

I will therefore that the younger women marry, bear children, guide the house, give none occasion to the adversary to speak reproachfully.

1 Timothy 5:2

The elder women as mothers; the younger as sisters, with all purity.

1 Timothy 5:11

But the younger widows refuse: for when they have begun to wax wanton against Christ, they will marry;