Three times in Titus chapter 2, Paul instructs the church about why and how genuine believers ought to live. In these instructions, he includes older men (& elders, 1:5-9), older women, younger women, younger men, and slaves. In so doing he provides a consistent rationale: “so that” (i.e., “here’s why”).

1. So that…the Word of God is not dishonored (2:5).
2. So that…our opponents will be put to shame having nothing bad to say about us (2:8).
3. So that…they will adorn the doctrine of God (2:10).

Older men (2:1-2, and elders by earlier reference in 1:5-9) are to have visible expressions of godly character. They are known for being “temperate, dignified, self-controlled, sound in faith, in love, in perseverance.” Godly men are known by a spirit of peace and a soul at rest. They know “Him who has been from the beginning” (1 John 2:13 &14).

Older women (2:3-5) are applauded for their reverent behavior. They are not known for gossip, or drunkenness (one could assume gossip is as odious as drunkenness). But these women are known for teaching younger women especially, and likely being examples of how to love husbands and children, how to be sensible, pure, industrious, kind, and submissive in relationship to their own husbands.

Younger women (2:4b-5) are to understand their inestimable value to Christ and culture. They are to have a legacy of faithfulness to Christ, especially in their marriages (His design to demonstrate relational fidelity). God chooses this particular relationship as His means for passing on the truth, wonder, and goodness of God amidst a culture filled with darkness, lies, and confusion.

Younger men are likewise to be sensible, in everything displaying goodness, purity, dignity, and sound speech. In large measure showing prudence, holding in check the emotions and impulsivity of youth, and with eyes focused on a much larger, better, and later outcome.

Slaves (perhaps employees in our day) are to be pleasing to those they serve, submissive, obedient, and faithful. They are not known for critical, argumentative spirits or theft, but rather, are considered loyal. The employee who serves in support of the boss gains an opportunity to introduce wisdom or influence in the future. Those who resist or disregard may easily be dismissed, both literally and metaphorically.

These evident characteristics are intended to be in distinct contrast to that of others who may “say” they are believers but prove—by their behavior and comportment—that they are not (1:10-16, especially vs. 16). “You will know them by their fruits” (Matthew 7:16).

In sum, the distinctions are plain.

False believers (pretenders—those who only “profess to know God”) are “worthless for any good deed” (1:16). They inspire criticism of the Savior and His Kingdom while simultaneously sowing their own delusion and destruction (Matthew 7:21-23).

Genuine followers of Jesus are “zealous for good deeds” (2:14, cf. 3:8 & 14). “I will show you my faith by my works” (James 2:18). Their quiet, respectful lives are testimony to the truth. They know Whose they are and in Whom they have believed, and they have entrusted their eternity completely to Him (1 Peter 3:8-17, esp. v. 13, cf. 1 Timothy 2:2).

Here’s the ultimate “why.”

The clear expectation of Jesus (and the New Testament) is that true believers will demonstrably be transformed in, and because of, their relationship with Christ. The indwelling Holy Spirit will see to it that change of character, comportment, and behavior occurs and grows throughout one’s lifetime (Philippians 1:6).

The clear expectation of Jesus (and the New Testament) is that true believers will demonstrably be transformed in, and because of, their relationship with Christ.

If genuine “disciples” are people “of good reputation, full of the Holy Spirit and of wisdom” (Acts 6:3), then they are the confirmers, the “witnesses” that God’s indwelling power and presence intended to produce (Acts 1:8). Therefore, what God says about the conditions of the world, of humanity, of sin, of righteousness, of judgment, of grace, and of love is true, reflected all around us in the character transformations of those who name the name of Christ. “The Word of God is not dishonored.”

What God says about the conditions of the world, of humanity, of sin, of righteousness, of judgment, of grace, and of love is true, reflected all around us in the character transformations of those who name the name of Christ.

Further, those who oppose Christ and His people cannot find just cause to criticize if believers are really the people described in Titus 2. Indeed, obviously false criticism will be deemed by others as inappropriate, even shameful. And their very criticism will demonstrate the vast separation between those who walk in the light of God and those still stumbling in darkness.

Those whose “walk” matches their “talk” will BE the most profound Corroboration for what the Creation and the Conscience have both already shouted into the hearts of all humans about the nature, character, and goodness of God (Romans 1:18-23, cf. Psalm 19—all of it!).

Live a life, then, that displays overwhelming, continuing, and life-long gratitude for what Jesus has done for us (3:3-8). That is, live a life known for genuine Christian character, in our behavior and in our comportment—this is the “SO THAT.” By our lives, we demonstrate to a watching world, as “exhibit A” (and even more so to the demonic hosts, cf. Eph. 3:10-11), our unswerving allegiance to a God who is good. And it will be evident to all…IF we really are His.

“He is good, good, better than GOOD!” That should be the aroma emanating from our lives.

The adversary has told us the opposite since the beginning.

Our regenerated lives and good deeds, our behavior, speech, and comportment resulting from our genuine faith, and God’s powerful transforming of our lives puts us at the very center of the cosmic, spiritual conflict over God’s reputation. That’s why!

Our regenerated lives and good deeds, our behavior, speech, and comportment resulting from our genuine faith, and God’s powerful transforming of our lives puts us at the very center of the cosmic, spiritual conflict over God’s reputation.

Be His. Repent, be thankful…and get busy, Christian…if that’s what you really are.

Copyright © 2025 Len Crowley. All rights reserved.