Titus 2:6

KJV

Young men likewise exhort to be sober minded.

KJV (with Strong's)

Young men {G3501} likewise {G5615} exhort {G3870} to be sober minded {G4993}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Similarly, urge the young men to be self-controlled,

Berean Standard Bible

In the same way, urge the younger men to be self-controlled.

American Standard Version

the younger men likewise exhort to be sober-minded:

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Titus 2:6 is a concise apostolic instruction from Paul to Titus, urging him to specifically exhort young men within the Cretan churches to cultivate sober-mindedness. This virtue, encompassing prudence, self-control, sound judgment, and a balanced perspective, is presented as essential for their spiritual maturity, responsible living, and for the overall health and reputation of the Christian community in a challenging cultural environment.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is an integral part of Paul's comprehensive pastoral charge to Titus in [Titus 2](/titus/2 "Titus 2 - Instructions for Godly Living"), where the apostle meticulously outlines the conduct expected of various demographic groups within the church. Following specific instructions for older men ([Titus 2:2](/titus/2-2 "Titus 2:2 - Exhortation for Older Men")), older women ([Titus 2:3](/titus/2-3 "Titus 2:3 - Exhortation for Older Women")), and younger women ([Titus 2:4-5](/titus/2-4-5 "Titus 2:4-5 - Exhortation for Younger Women")), Paul turns his attention to young men. The structure demonstrates Paul's holistic vision for a healthy church, where every member's godly character contributes to the collective witness and doctrinal integrity, aligning with the overarching theme of "sound doctrine" introduced in [Titus 2:1](/titus/2-1 "Titus 2:1 - Sound Doctrine").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Titus was left in Crete, an island notorious in antiquity for its moral laxity and untrustworthiness, as evidenced by Paul's own quotation of a Cretan prophet in [Titus 1:12](/titus/1-12 "Titus 1:12 - Cretans are Liars"). The pagan culture of Crete was characterized by sensuality, greed, and a lack of self-control, which posed significant challenges for the nascent Christian communities. Young men, in particular, would have been susceptible to the prevailing cultural norms of impulsivity, excess, and a lack of discipline. Paul's exhortation for them to be "sober minded" was a direct counter-cultural call, aiming to distinguish Christian conduct from the surrounding pagan practices and to ensure the church's integrity and witness in such an environment.
* **Key Themes:** The central theme in [Titus 2](/titus/2 "Titus 2 - Instructions for Godly Living") is the practical outworking of "sound doctrine" ([Titus 2:1](/titus/2-1 "Titus 2:1 - Sound Doctrine")) in daily life, demonstrating that true faith is not merely intellectual assent but transforms behavior. For young men, the specific theme is **sober-mindedness**, which encompasses self-control, discretion, prudence, and sound judgment. This virtue is crucial for navigating the temptations and pressures of youth, fostering spiritual maturity, and ensuring that their conduct does not bring reproach upon the gospel ([Titus 2:8](/titus/2-8 "Titus 2:8 - So that the Opponent May be Ashamed")). Ultimately, the entire chapter points to the goal of living lives that adorn the "doctrine of God our Savior" ([Titus 2:10](/titus/2-10 "Titus 2:10 - Adorning the Doctrine of God")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **exhort (Greek, _parakaléō'_):** This verb, derived from _para_ (alongside) and _kaléō_ (to call), literally means "to call near." In this context, it signifies to invite, implore, urge, or encourage. It's a strong but gentle appeal, not a harsh command, implying a pastoral tone of persuasion and instruction. Titus is not merely to suggest but to actively and earnestly encourage young men towards this virtue.
* **sober minded (Greek, _sōphronéō'_):** From _sōphrōn_ (sound mind), this word means "to be of sound mind," "sane," or "moderate." It denotes a state of self-control, prudence, discretion, and sound judgment. It's more than just abstaining from drunkenness; it implies a balanced, disciplined, and thoughtful approach to life, free from irrationality, excess, or impulsivity. It speaks to a healthy mental and moral disposition that guides one's actions.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Young men likewise exhort":** This phrase directs Titus to extend his pastoral instruction specifically to the younger male members of the community. The "likewise" (Greek, _hōsaútōs'_) connects this instruction to the preceding ones for older men, older women, and younger women, emphasizing that godly conduct is expected across all age and gender demographics within the church. Titus's role is to actively and earnestly encourage them.
* **"to be sober minded":** This is the core command and the specific virtue Titus is to promote among young men. It calls for them to cultivate self-control, sound judgment, prudence, and a balanced perspective in all areas of life. This includes managing their passions, making wise decisions, and acting with discretion, particularly relevant for a demographic often associated with impulsivity or recklessness.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs **Didacticism**, as Paul directly instructs Titus on what to teach and how to teach it, reflecting the epistle's overall purpose of providing pastoral guidance for church order and conduct. There is also clear **Emphasis** placed on the quality of "sober mindedness," highlighting its paramount importance for young men. The structure of [Titus 2](/titus/2 "Titus 2 - Instructions for Godly Living") itself uses **Categorization** by addressing specific demographic groups, creating a comprehensive framework for ethical living within the Christian community.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The call for young men to be sober-minded is deeply rooted in biblical wisdom literature and the broader New Testament emphasis on self-control and spiritual maturity. It reflects the understanding that true godliness is not merely internal belief but is visibly expressed through disciplined and thoughtful living. This virtue is essential for resisting worldly temptations, making wise life choices, and maintaining a credible witness for the gospel. It underscores the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in shaping character, moving believers from impulsive, fleshly desires to Spirit-led prudence and discernment.

* [Proverbs 1:4](/proverbs/1-4 "Proverbs 1:4 - To give prudence to the simple")
* [1 Peter 4:7](/1_peter/4-7 "1 Peter 4:7 - Be sober and watchful unto prayer")
* [2 Timothy 2:22](/2_timothy/2-22 "2 Timothy 2:22 - Flee youthful lusts")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
For young men today, the exhortation to be "sober minded" is profoundly relevant in a world that often celebrates impulsivity, immediate gratification, and a lack of self-restraint. This verse challenges them to cultivate a disciplined mind and spirit, enabling them to navigate complex decisions regarding career, relationships, finances, and digital engagement with wisdom and foresight. It is a call to resist the pressures of peer culture and societal trends that often encourage recklessness, instead embracing a thoughtful, intentional approach to life that honors God and builds up the community. Embracing sober-mindedness means actively seeking discernment, exercising self-control over desires and emotions, and committing to responsible actions that reflect Christ-like character, thereby becoming a positive influence in their spheres of influence.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life do you find it most challenging to exercise "sober-mindedness" or self-control?**
* **How does the pursuit of "sober-mindedness" contrast with prevailing cultural norms for young men today?**
* **What practical steps can you take to cultivate greater prudence and sound judgment in your daily decisions?**
* **How might your commitment to sober-mindedness positively impact your relationships and your witness for Christ?**

### FAQ
**What does "sober minded" truly mean beyond not being drunk?**

Answer: While "sober minded" (Greek, _sōphronéō'_) can literally refer to not being intoxicated, its primary and broader meaning in [Titus 2:6](/titus/2-6 "Titus 2:6 - Young men to be sober minded") refers to a state of mental and moral soundness. It encompasses self-control, prudence, discretion, and sound judgment. It means having a balanced, healthy, and disciplined mind that is not swayed by fleeting emotions, worldly desires, or irrational impulses. It's about thinking clearly, acting wisely, and maintaining a sense of moderation in all aspects of life, reflecting a mature and thoughtful character. This virtue is vital for making good decisions and living a life that honors God, as seen in other passages like [1 Timothy 3:2](/1_timothy/3-2 "1 Timothy 3:2 - Qualities of an Overseer") where it's a requirement for church leaders.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The call for young men to be "sober minded" finds its ultimate fulfillment and perfect embodiment in Jesus Christ. He is the quintessential example of perfect self-control, divine wisdom, and unwavering discernment, never succumbing to temptation or acting impulsively. His life, from His focused pursuit of His Father's will ([Luke 2:49](/luke/2-49 "Luke 2:49 - Jesus in the Temple")) to His steadfast endurance on the cross ([Hebrews 12:2](/hebrews/12-2 "Hebrews 12:2 - Jesus, the Author and Finisher of Our Faith")), demonstrates absolute sober-mindedness. Furthermore, through His atoning work, Christ not only provides the perfect standard but also empowers believers to live out this virtue. The Holy Spirit, given to those who are in Christ, enables believers to crucify the flesh with its passions and desires ([Galatians 5:24](/galatians/5-24 "Galatians 5:24 - Crucifying the Flesh")) and to bear the fruit of self-control ([Galatians 5:23](/galatians/5-23 "Galatians 5:23 - Fruit of the Spirit")). Thus, the exhortation in [Titus 2:6](/titus/2-6 "Titus 2:6 - Young men to be sober minded") is not a mere moralistic command but a call to live in conformity with the character of Christ, made possible by His redemptive work and the indwelling Spirit, leading to lives that adorn the gospel and bring glory to God.

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

Ecclesiastes 12:1

¶ Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth, while the evil days come not, nor the years draw nigh, when thou shalt say, I have no pleasure in them;

1 Peter 5:5

¶ Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all [of you] be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble.

Ecclesiastes 11:9

Rejoice, O young man, in thy youth; and let thy heart cheer thee in the days of thy youth, and walk in the ways of thine heart, and in the sight of thine eyes: but know thou, that for all these [things] God will bring thee into judgment.

1 John 2:13

I write unto you, fathers, because ye have known him [that is] from the beginning. I write unto you, young men, because ye have overcome the wicked one. I write unto you, little children, because ye have known the Father.

Joel 2:28

¶ And it shall come to pass afterward, [that] I will pour out my spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions:

1 Timothy 5:1

¶ Rebuke not an elder, but intreat [him] as a father; [and] the younger men as brethren;

Psalms 148:12

Both young men, and maidens; old men, and children: