Titus 2:5

KJV

[To be] discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed.

KJV (with Strong's)

To be discreet {G4998}, chaste {G53}, keepers at home {G3626}, good {G18}, obedient {G5293} to their own {G2398} husbands {G435}, that {G3363} the word {G3056} of God {G2316} be {G987} not {G3363} blasphemed {G987}.

Complete Jewish Bible

to be self-controlled and pure, to take good care of their homes and submit to their husbands. In this way, God’s message will not be brought into disgrace.

Berean Standard Bible

to be self-controlled, pure, managers of their households, kind, and submissive to their own husbands, so that the word of God will not be discredited.

American Standard Version

to be sober-minded, chaste, workers at home, kind, being in subjection to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed:

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Titus 2:5 outlines essential virtues for younger women within the Christian community, emphasizing discretion, chastity, domestic stewardship, goodness, and respectful obedience to their husbands. These instructions, given by Paul to Titus for the Cretan church, are not merely societal expectations but are deeply rooted in the desire for believers' lives to honor God and prevent the Gospel message from being discredited or blasphemed by their conduct.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Titus 2:5 is an integral part of Paul's comprehensive instructions to Titus concerning the organization and conduct of the church in Crete. Following the qualifications for elders in [Titus 1](/titus/1 "Titus 1 - Qualifications for Elders"), Paul shifts in [Titus 2](/titus/2 "Titus 2 - Instructions for Godly Living") to address various demographic groups within the church: older men, older women, younger women, younger men, and bondservants. Specifically, verses [Titus 2:3-4](/titus/2-3-4 "Titus 2:3-4 - Older Women Teaching Younger Women") instruct older women to teach and train younger women in these virtues, highlighting a vital intergenerational discipleship dynamic. The ultimate goal for all these groups, as articulated in [Titus 2:10](/titus/2-10 "Titus 2:10 - Adorning the Doctrine"), is to "adorn the doctrine of God our Savior in everything," making the Christian faith attractive and credible to a watching world.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The island of Crete had a reputation for moral laxity and social disorder, as famously noted in [Titus 1:12](/titus/1-12 "Titus 1:12 - Cretans' Character") where Paul quotes a Cretan prophet describing them as "always liars, evil beasts, lazy gluttons." In such a challenging environment, the conduct of Christians was paramount. The early church was a counter-cultural movement, and the integrity of its members, particularly in their household and public lives, served as a powerful testimony to the transformative power of the Gospel. Women in Greco-Roman society, while having varying degrees of freedom depending on their social status, were generally expected to manage the household. Paul's instructions here, rather than imposing new cultural norms, sanctify and elevate the existing domestic roles within a Christian framework, ensuring that Christian households would be places of order, purity, and witness, standing in stark contrast to the surrounding pagan culture.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several overarching themes in Titus and Pauline theology. The primary theme is **Godly Living and Sound Doctrine**, where right belief (doctrine) must invariably lead to right conduct (living). The virtues listed for younger women exemplify this connection, showing how theological truth translates into practical, everyday life. Another key theme is **Christian Witness and Apologetics**, as the ultimate purpose ("that the word of God be not blasphemed") underscores that the conduct of believers directly impacts the reputation and credibility of the Gospel message. Furthermore, the verse touches on **Household Order and Family Integrity**, recognizing the home as a fundamental unit for both societal stability and Christian witness. These themes collectively emphasize that the church's internal health and external impact are inextricably linked to the personal holiness and relational integrity of its members, a principle echoed throughout Paul's letters, such as in [Ephesians 5-6](/ephesians/5-6 "Ephesians 5-6 - Household Codes and Spiritual Warfare").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Discreet (Greek, _sōphrōn'_):** This word, derived from the base of _sōzō_ (to save) and _phrēn_ (mind), literally means "safe (sound) in mind." It signifies being self-controlled, sensible, prudent, and moderate in opinion or passion. It speaks to a balanced and rational mind, free from excess or impulsive behavior, capable of good judgment.
* **Keepers at Home (Greek, _oikourós'_):** A compound word formed from _oikos_ (house) and _ouros_ (a guard or keeper), this term describes someone who is a "stayer at home" or "domestically inclined." It conveys the idea of a diligent and watchful manager of the household, emphasizing the importance of nurturing, ordering, and stewarding the home environment.
* **Blasphemed (Greek, _blasphēméō'_):** From _blasphēmos_ (vilifying), this verb means "to speak impiously," "to revile," "to defame," or "to speak evil of." In this context, it refers to the act of bringing reproach, scorn, or disrepute upon the "word of God" through ungodly conduct.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"[To be] discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good":** This initial cluster of virtues describes a holistic character for younger women. "Discreet" (self-controlled, sensible) and "chaste" (pure, morally clean) speak to inner character and moral integrity. "Keepers at home" (diligent managers of the household) highlights their primary sphere of influence and responsibility. "Good" (morally excellent, virtuous, benevolent) encompasses an active, positive disposition that seeks to do what is right and beneficial in all interactions. Together, these qualities paint a picture of women whose lives are marked by wisdom, purity, diligence, and active virtue.
* **"obedient to their own husbands":** This clause addresses the specific relational dynamic within marriage. The Greek term _hypotássō_ implies a willing submission or arrangement under, not a demeaning subjugation. In the biblical framework, this obedience is a recognition of the husband's headship within the household, mirroring Christ's headship over the Church ([Ephesians 5:23](/ephesians/5-23 "Ephesians 5:23 - Christ as Head of the Church")). It fosters order, mutual respect, and harmony within the marital relationship, contributing to a stable and godly home environment.
* **"that the word of God be not blasphemed":** This concluding purpose clause reveals the profound missional and apologetic significance of the preceding virtues. The conduct of Christian women (and indeed, all believers) serves as a living testimony to the truth and power of the Gospel. If believers live lives contrary to the teachings of God's Word, it can lead outsiders to mock, revile, or reject the very message itself. Conversely, lives that exemplify these virtues validate the transforming power of God's Word, making it attractive and credible to those who observe them.

#### Literary Devices
Paul employs several literary devices in Titus 2:5 to convey his instruction effectively. Primarily, the verse functions as an **Exhortation**, a strong encouragement or urging for a particular course of action, typical of Pauline epistles. It is also highly **Didactic** in nature, serving to instruct and teach specific moral and ethical principles for Christian living. The phrase "that the word of God be not blasphemed" functions as a **Purpose Clause**, clearly stating the ultimate reason or goal behind the prescribed behaviors. This highlights the practical, outward-looking consequence of internal virtues, emphasizing that personal conduct has public implications for the reputation of the divine message.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Titus 2:5 encapsulates a profound theological truth: personal holiness and relational integrity are inseparable from the effective witness of the Gospel. The virtues prescribed for younger women are not arbitrary cultural dictates but reflect God's design for human flourishing and the integrity of His Word. The emphasis on the home as a sphere of influence underscores its vital role in nurturing faith and demonstrating Christian values to the world. The ultimate concern that "the word of God be not blasphemed" reveals a deep theological commitment to the honor of God's name and the truthfulness of His revelation. The Church, as the body of Christ, is called to live in such a way that it commends the Gospel, demonstrating its transformative power in every aspect of life, from personal character to family dynamics.

* [1 Timothy 2:9-10](/1_timothy/2-9-10 "Godly Adornment")
* [Proverbs 31:10-31](/proverbs/31-10-31 "The Virtuous Woman")
* [Romans 2:24](/romans/2-24 "Blaspheming God's Name")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Titus 2:5 offers timeless wisdom for Christian women, encouraging a life that is both inwardly virtuous and outwardly impactful. While the specific cultural expressions may vary, the underlying principles of self-control, purity, diligent stewardship of one's primary responsibilities (including the home, broadly understood), active goodness, and respectful relationships remain foundational for a life that honors God. These virtues are not restrictive burdens but liberating pathways to genuine flourishing and effective witness. They call women to cultivate a character that reflects Christ, to create environments of peace and order, and to live in such a way that the Gospel is adorned, not discredited. Our personal conduct, whether in our homes, workplaces, or communities, is a powerful apologetic for the truth of God's Word. When we live lives of integrity and grace, we demonstrate the transformative power of the Holy Spirit, making the message of salvation attractive and credible to a watching world.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does living a "discreet" and "chaste" life reflect God's character in today's world, especially amidst prevailing cultural values?**
* **In what ways can "keeping at home" be understood and applied beyond a literal domestic sphere, encompassing the stewardship of one's primary responsibilities, relationships, and the creation of a nurturing environment wherever one is?**
* **How does our personal conduct, individually and within our families, impact the perception of "the word of God" by those outside the faith, and what practical steps can we take to ensure our lives adorn the Gospel?**

### FAQ

**Does "keepers at home" mean women should not work outside the home?**

Answer: The phrase "keepers at home" (Greek: _oikourous_) emphasizes the importance of managing and nurturing the household. It highlights the home as a primary sphere of influence and responsibility, where order, care, and spiritual formation are cultivated. This does not inherently forbid women from working outside the home, but rather prioritizes the stewardship of the domestic sphere. In ancient times, the home was often the center of economic activity, and women managed complex households, which could include business ventures. The principle is about diligently stewarding one's primary responsibilities and relationships, ensuring the home is a place of peace and godliness, whether one's work is exclusively within the home or extends beyond it. The goal is that the home is not neglected and that one's life choices do not bring disrepute to the Gospel.

**Is "obedient to their own husbands" a call for blind submission or inferiority?**

Answer: The biblical concept of "obedience" or "submission" (Greek: _hypotássō_) within marriage is not a call for blind, unquestioning subservience or an indication of inferiority. Rather, it describes a voluntary, respectful alignment under the husband's headship, which itself is to be exercised in a Christ-like manner of sacrificial love and service, as seen in [Ephesians 5:25-28](/ephesians/5-25-28 "Husbands Love Your Wives"). It is part of God's design for order and harmony within the family unit, reflecting the divine order of Christ's headship over the Church. This submission is reciprocal in a broader sense (Christians submitting to one another, [Ephesians 5:21](/ephesians/5-21 "Submitting to One Another")), and it is always qualified by obedience to God first. It means respecting the husband's leadership, supporting his decisions, and working together for the good of the family and the glory of God, rather than engaging in constant contention or rebellion.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The virtues exhorted in Titus 2:5 find their ultimate and perfect embodiment in the person of Jesus Christ. He was supremely "discreet" and "chaste," living a life of perfect self-control, purity, and moral integrity, untainted by sin ([Hebrews 4:15](/hebrews/4-15 "Jesus, Our Sinless High Priest")). His life was one of perfect "goodness," constantly doing the will of the Father and ministering to others ([Acts 10:38](/acts/10-38 "Jesus' Ministry")). Most profoundly, Jesus demonstrated perfect "obedience" to His Father, even to the point of death on a cross, fulfilling God's redemptive plan ([Philippians 2:8](/philippians/2-8 "Christ's Obedience")). The purpose of these virtues—"that the word of God be not blasphemed"—is ultimately rooted in Christ, who perfectly revealed the Father and whose life and sacrifice make the Gospel unassailable. As believers, we are united with Christ, and through the power of the Holy Spirit, we are enabled to progressively live out these Christ-like virtues, reflecting His character to the world ([Galatians 2:20](/galatians/2-20 "Christ Living in Me")). The Church, as the bride of Christ, is called to be "without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless" ([Ephesians 5:27](/ephesians/5-27 "Christ's Love for the Church")), thereby honoring the "word of God" that declares His saving power.

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

Proverbs 31:10

¶ Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price [is] far above rubies.

Proverbs 31:31

Give her of the fruit of her hands; and let her own works praise her in the gates.

Colossians 3:18

¶ Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as it is fit in the Lord.

1 Timothy 5:10

Well reported of for good works; if she have brought up children, if she have lodged strangers, if she have washed the saints' feet, if she have relieved the afflicted, if she have diligently followed every good work.

1 Peter 3:1

¶ Likewise, ye wives, [be] in subjection to your own husbands; that, if any obey not the word, they also may without the word be won by the conversation of the wives;

1 Peter 3:5

For after this manner in the old time the holy women also, who trusted in God, adorned themselves, being in subjection unto their own husbands:

1 Timothy 5:13

And withal they learn [to be] idle, wandering about from house to house; and not only idle, but tattlers also and busybodies, speaking things which they ought not.