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The Study of Titus 2.3-5
---pamela spurling © 2001
Titus 2.3
"The aged women likewise, that they be in behaviour as becometh
holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers
of good things; "
~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~
It appears to be fruitless to discuss what exact or specific age is
actually considered aged. For the sake of our study, let's assume
this means a woman who is older... not a young woman, wife or mother;
rather this is a woman who has lived longer, shown a pattern of good
works and faithfulness. We can tell these requirements because of the
description in the verse, *plus* we consider the word *likewise* ---
"The aged women likewise..." and this pertains to what was just
described above for the aged men (V. 2 "That the aged men be sober,
grave, temperate, sound in faith, in charity, in patience.")
Let's look today at verses that describe what else, or what all, this
*likewise* means:
1 Timothy 2.9
"In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel,
with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or
pearls, or costly array;"
1 Timothy 3.11
"Even so must their wives be grave, not slanderers, sober, faithful in
all things."
1 Timothy 5.5-10
"Now she that is a widow indeed, and desolate, trusteth in God, and
continueth in supplications and prayers night and day. But she that
liveth in pleasure is dead while she liveth. And these things give in
charge, that they may be blameless. But if any provide not for his
own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied the
faith, and is worse than an infidel. Let not a widow be taken into the
number under threescore years old, having been the wife of one man,
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 3.3-5
"Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the
hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel; But let it
be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even
the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God
of great price. 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:"
For today we will define each 'quality' of the aged women.
The aged women [older women] Women general, not deaconess specific.
likewise, [like as, or after the same manner (as the previous verse
indicates)]
that they be in [denoting position among, in the rest, together, at,]
behaviour [demeanor, position or condition]
as becometh holiness, [reverent, sacred, holy]
not false accuser, [(not) violent, throw, hit, accuse, not slanderers,
backbiters, tale-bearers, etc.]
not given [servant, enslave, bondage]
to much wine, [many, much, plenteous, + wine] As I understand it,
the Cretians were considered "gluttonous" in their behavior and were
enslaved to drink. Remember Titus 1.12. Greek and Roman women were
noted for drinking much wine---it was common-though *not* becoming!
teachers [instructor, teacher, doctor, master] This would be
private---not teaching in the church as in mixed groups
of good things; [properly, beautiful, chiefly good (literally
or morally), i.e. valuable or virtuous for appearance or use,
better, fair, good(ly), honest, meet, well, worthy.
How many years must pass for a woman to set a pattern of holy
behavior?
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Who would be the judge of this behavior?
____________________________________________________________
When does this behavior manifest itself or become distinguishing in
the life of a woman---when she is young or as she grows older?
____________________________________________________________
Be thinking of older women you know personally who
*exemplify these qualities*... what specifically about them or their
behavior do you notice, and what qualities would you most like to
develop in your own life?
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
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Titus 2.1,3&4
1 "But speak thou the things which become sound doctrine: ...
3 The aged women likewise, that they be in behaviour as becometh
holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of good
things;
4 That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their
husbands, to love their children,"
~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~
Go back to verse *one.* Read it and reread it. Who is the "thou" in
that verse??
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Now, look at another little word in verses 3 and 4: BE. Yes... BE!
BE! BE!
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Now, given that this is one of the "pastoral epistles,"
and the fact
that Titus is instructing the pastors/elders/bishops in their roll,
what is the first priority? We see in this segment that they are
responsible to be teaching the aged men (v. 2) and they are to be
teaching the aged women (and the young men; v.6) what is the
*responsibility* of the aged men, women, young men???
___________________________________________________________
Yes... to BE...!
To the aged women, he was commanding: "...*be* in behaviour as
becometh holiness..."
BE. To *be* in behavior... who is exempt?
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1Peter 1.15-16 "But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy
in all manner of conversation; Because it is written, Be ye holy; for
I am holy."
And then, to *teach.* How are they to teach??
Is this teaching an interactive teaching, or is it by example?
___________________________________________________________
The previous question was the *how* of the teaching---and now I ask
you, who is exempt, who is exempt from teaching?
___________________________________________________________
For those of you looking for the key or the answers to being a "Titus 2 woman,"
I pray that you will not be
discouraged... there is no magic key, no shortcut or method-------it all
centers on one thing... and it's all in
the *BE-ing*
"Be in behavior..."
Titus 2.3&4
3 The aged women likewise, that they be in behaviour as becometh
holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of
good things;
4 That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their
husbands, to love their children,"
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Q: What happens when women neglect the Word, its teaching and
reputation?
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1Ti 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.
Q: When women lack self control, when they do not learn to exercise
self-restraint in all areas of their behavior, what are the
consequences?
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2Ti 3.6-7 For of this sort are they which creep into houses, and lead
captive silly women laden with sins, led away with divers lusts, Ever
learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.
Aren't we sometimes prone to this(2 Timothy 3.6-7)? Here we study and
study the Word and seem to be addicted to it, and yet for lack of
applying it, we fall into the sin described above... silly women led
away... I wrote about this recently in TheWelcomeHome message: The
Secret to the Christian Walk (2/17/01). We are like window shoppers
when it comes to Bible Study---we *love* to look, but we never really
intend to buy the truth!
So, what needs to change? What needs to be done? Is it a decision to
*be* a *learner* of "good things, a *learner* of how to be/remain
sober, a *learner* of how to love ones husband, a *learner* of how to
love ones children? YES, it IS a decision to *be* a
*learner*---because here the aged women are commanded to teach... and
the younger are to BE taught. You see? We are to BE sober, we are to
LOVE our husbands and we are to LOVE our children.
Why do you think these things are to be *taught* by the aged women?
Won't they simply come naturally? Won't women just naturally *want*
to love their husband and children????
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Let's look at the three key words of verse 4 in the Greek
***To be sober
4994. sophronizo, so-fron-id'-zo: from 4998; to make of sound mind,
i.e. (figuratively) to discipline or correct:--teach to be sober.
4998. sophron, so'-frone: from the base of 4982 and that of 5424; safe
(sound) in mind, i.e. self-controlled (moderate as to opinion or
passion):--discreet, sober, temperate.
***To love their husband
5362. philandros, fil'-an-dros; from 5384 and 435; fond of man, i.e.
affectionate as a wife:--love their husbands.
5384. philos, fee'-los:
properly, dear, i.e. a friend;
actively, fond, i.e. friendly (still as a noun, an associate,
neighbor, etc.):--friend. & 435. aner, an'-ayr: a primary word
(compare 444); a man (properly as an individual male):--fellow,
husband, man, sir.
***To love their children:
5388. philoteknos, fil-ot'-ek-nos: from 5384 and 5043; fond of one's
children, i.e. maternal:--love their children.
5384. philos, fee'-los: properly,
dear, i.e. a friend;
actively, fond, i.e. friendly (still as a noun, an associate,
neighbor, etc.):--friend. 5043. teknon, tek'-non: from the base of
5098; a child (as produced):--child, daughter, son.
So... we are to BE self controlled, to have a sound mind, to BE
affectionate as a wife, to actively be fond of friendly with, to love
our husband, and to be fond of and actively and in a friendly way,
love our sons and/or daughters.
These are not things we are to study to do someday, rather, we are to
BE them today! We are to come this way, be this way, exist this way.
So... what of a woman who isn't actively pursuing this command?
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For today:
Q: Are you striving to have a sound mind? What are you doing to
improve?
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Q: Are you striving to love your husband? What are you doing to SHOW
him this love and affection? What are you doing to improve?
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Q: Are you striving to love you children? Are you fond of them? Are
you affectionate toward them? Are they sure of your love? What are
you doing to improve?
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Titus 2.3&4
3 "The aged women likewise, that they be in behaviour as becometh
holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of
good things;"
4 "That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their
husbands, to love their children,"
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Before we get too far away from the behavior of the aged women and
move on to the teaching of the young women, let's look for a moment at
a couple of characteristics that are typically ascribed to women and
that is that they are typified as nosy, nagging busybodies who lack
self control. I say this because it is typical of *some* women. That
word for false accusers here is the same word used for devils. You see
it is the devil's work to slander, accuse, be a talebearer, etc. So,
as is common with many women who spread gossip through malicious
behavior, here is the admonition for them to not behave devilishly or
to be slanderers. Instead, they are to "be in behaviour as becometh
holiness..."
One of the most distinguishing features of a wise woman's character is
her use and control of her tongue, both within her home and in public.
The self-control or behavior she demonstrates when hearing and *NOT*
repeating information will indicate Christian maturity. A woman who
does not need to either know everything, or to spread everything she
does know is a woman who is in "behaviour as becometh holiness."
This is a "Titus 2 woman."
Now, on to the teaching of younger women...
As we have studied... we are to BE self controlled, to BE of a sound
mind,
to BE affectionate as a wife, to actively BE fond of, friendly with,
to love our husband,
and to BE fond of, actively and in a friendly way, love our sons
and/or daughters.
Why do you suppose that the duty of teaching the younger women was
given to the aged women?
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Let's think for a moment about the wisdom of this. Scripture teaches
that a wife should receive her counsel from aged women and that her
Spiritual teaching should also come from her husband. It only stands
to wise reasoning then, that it would be inappropriate for any other
man (other than father first, and husband after marriage) to be
personally teaching the woman. It would most certainly have been
inappropriate for Titus to be coming alongside the younger women.
Then, let's look at the practicality and precedent the LORD has set
here. An aged woman would likely have been married a good length of
time, likely have learned to love her husband and would probably have
raised many or most of her children---it not all of them.
Additionally, the aged woman would presumably have learned a great
deal from her own past mistakes and shortcomings---certainly enough to
warn of possible pitfalls or trails a woman would face. Also, her
journey would probably have taken her through the tough spots in
marriage... sex, finances, career, in-laws, children; pregnancy and
birth, housing, etc. Additionally, the aged woman would likely have
been through spiritual highs and lows, her faith would have been
tested and made more secure by trials and blessings, and she would
doubtless have overcome many disappointments and faced sadness and
loss in her life. All of these things would be things that the LORD
would have incorporated into her life to make her into a vessel He
could use for the training and modeling for younger women.
Another interesting thing to note is that the word used here: "to love
their husbands" is used nowhere else in the New Testament. Not only
should the placement of the directive pique our attention, but the
preciseness of the word should, as well.
We learn in Ephesians 5 that wives are to submit to their husbands
(22), that the husband is the head of the wife (23), that wives are to
be subject to them in everything (24), and finally, that the wife see
that she reverence her husband (33).
But, here in Titus, we see that women are to be taught to
love---remember the definition... it carried with it the terms,
affectionate, fond, friendly, love, etc.---their husband. Could it be
that this affectionate love would be foundational to the success of
their marriage and home?
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What happens when love fades or declines in a marriage? Is that not
the most wretched time? And when love AND affection are strong AND
growing, is that not the *sweetest* time of all?!?!?!
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Why must this be taught or modeled, isn't it just something that
happens naturally?
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You are studying the book of Titus and you were likely drawn to this
study because you know you need the teaching----NOT from ME, but from
the *Word*... we all need this teaching from the Word. We all know
that we long for sweetness of what the Word teaches us. What a
blessing when we see it modeled as well!!
Let us endeavor to be women of the Word---women who read and heed,
because it is in the Word and let us be seeking to please the LORD in
*everything.*
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Titus 2.5
5 To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their
own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed.
~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~
Today's study may be (by comparison) a bit dry... and you may wonder
about the purpose, but I want you to know that it is my hope that we
really and truly understand exactly what we mean when we say we are or
want to be a Titus 2 woman. It is a phrase or "title" so commonly
thrown out, and yet, we may be ignorant of the truly deep meaning of
this passage.
So, for today, I am simply posting the Greek definitions (Strong's) to
each of the key words in the first portion of Titus 2.5.
Were we to move to a foreign country, it would be foolish to not learn
the language and specific definitions to words we would regularly use.
So, also it is with the Bible... if we are to be serious students of
the Word, we must learn the definitions of specifically chosen words
in order to more thoroughly grasp the rich message, command, or
admonition.
We will look at this passage again and at that time we will
have a better understanding of the rich and precise meaning of these
words. You may want to cut away, print out and keep this list so
that you can become very familiar with each word...
The numbers you see are the numbers Strong assigned to each Greek word
in the New Testament. They make for interesting study and cross
referencing. Additionally, they truly demonstrate the intention of
the author because of the careful choice and usage of each word. We
are learning that Greek is a very precise language. I hope you will
take the time to study them today and to pray the LORD will direct
your thoughts.
***Discreet: 4998. sophron, so'-frone
from the base of 4982 and that of 5424; safe (sound) in mind, i.e.
self-controlled (moderate as to opinion or passion):--discreet, sober,
temperate.
4982. sozo, sode'-zo
from a primary sos (contraction for obsolete saos, "safe"); to save,
i.e. deliver or protect (literally or figuratively):--heal, preserve,
save (self), do well, be (make) whole.
5424. phren, frane
probably from an obsolete phrao (to rein in or curb; compare 5420);
the midrif (as a partition of the body), i.e. (figuratively and by
implication, of sympathy) the feelings (or sensitive nature; by
extension (also in the plural) the mind or cognitive
faculties):--understanding.
***Chaste: 53. hagnos, hag-nos'
from the same as 40; properly, clean, i.e. (figuratively) innocent,
modest, perfect:--chaste, clean, pure.
40. hagios, hag'-ee-os
from hagos (an awful thing) (compare 53, 2282); sacred (physically,
pure, morally blameless or religious, ceremonially,
consecrated):--(most) holy (one, thing), saint.
*** keepers at home: 3626. oikouros, oy-koo-ros'
from 3624 and ouros (a guard; be "ware"); a stayer at home, i.e.
domestically inclined (a "good housekeeper"):--keeper at home.
3624. oikos, oy'-kos
of uncertain affinity; a dwelling (more or less extensive, literal or
figurative); by implication, a family (more or less related, literally
or figuratively):--home, house(-hold), temple.
*** good: 18. agathos, ag-ath-os'
a primary word; "good" (in any sense, often as noun):--benefit,
good(-s, things), well. Compare 2570.
2570. kalos, kal-os'
of uncertain affinity; properly, beautiful, but chiefly (figuratively)
good (literally or morally), i.e. valuable or virtuous (for appearance
or use, and thus distinguished from 18, which is properly
intrinsic):--X better, fair, good(-ly), honest, meet, well, worthy.
***obedient to: 5293. hupotasso, hoop-ot-as'-so
from 5259 and 5021; to subordinate; reflexively, to obey:--be under
obedience (obedient), put under, subdue unto, (be, make) subject (to,
unto), be (put) in subjection (to, under), submit self unto.
5259. hupo, hoop-o'
a primary preposition; under, i.e. (with the genitive case) of place
(beneath), or with verbs (the agency or means, through); (with the
accusative case) of place (whither (underneath) or where (below) or
time (when (at)):--among, by, from, in, of, under, with. In the
comparative, it retains the same general applications, especially of
inferior position or condition, and specially, covertly or moderately.
5021. tasso, tas'-so
a prolonged form of a primary verb (which latter appears only in
certain tenses); to arrange in an orderly manner, i.e. assign or
dispose (to a certain position or lot):--addict, appoint, determine,
ordain, set.
***their own: 2398. idiov idios, id'-ee-os
of uncertain affinity; pertaining to self, i.e. one's own; by
implication, private or separate:--X his acquaintance, when they were
alone, apart, aside, due, his (own, proper, several), home, (her, our,
thine, your) own (business), private(-ly), proper, severally, their
(own)
Husband: 435. aner, an'-ayr
a primary word (compare 444); a man (properly as an individual
male):--fellow, husband, man, sir.
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Titus 2.5
5 To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their
own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed.
><~><~><~><~><~><~><~><~><~><~><~><~><~><~><~><~><~><~><
The question I pray you'll ask yourself today: "Do I really, really
want to
BE a "Titus 2 woman, and why?"
_________________________________________________________.
The following verses all pertain in some way to being discreet,
chaste, a keeper at home, good, and obedient to ones own
husband.*See if you can add more verses of your own to this list to
make it more complete.
1 Corinthians 14.34 "Let your women keep silence in the
churches: for
it is not permitted unto them to speak; but they are commanded to be
under obedience, as also saith the law.
1Timothy 2.9-11
9 "In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel,
with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or
pearls, or costly array;
10 But (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works.
11 Let the woman learn in silence with all subjection."
Colossians 3.18 Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as it
is fit in the Lord.
Genesis 3.16 Unto the woman he said, I will greatly multiply thy
sorrow and thy conception; in sorrow thou shalt bring forth children;
and thy desire shall be to thy husband, and he shall rule over thee.
1 Corinthians 11.3 But I would have you know, that the head of every
man is Christ; and the head of the woman is the man; and the head of
Christ is God.
Ephesians 5.22-24 & 33
22 Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord.
23 For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head
of the church: and he is the saviour of the body.
24 Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be
to their own husbands in every thing.
&
33 Nevertheless let every one of you in particular so love his wife
even as himself; and the wife see that she reverence her husband.
1 Peter 3.1-6
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;
2 While they behold your chaste conversation coupled with fear.
3 Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the
hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel;
4 But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not
corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in
the sight of God of great price.
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:
6 Even as Sara obeyed Abraham, calling him lord: whose daughters ye
are, as long as ye do well, and are not afraid with any amazement.
Proverbs 7.11 "She is loud and stubborn; her feet abide not in her
house:"
1 Timothy 5.9-15
9 Let not a widow be taken into the number under threescore years old,
having been the wife of one man,
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.
11 But the younger widows refuse: for when they have begun to wax
wanton against Christ, they will marry;
12 Having damnation, because they have cast off their first faith.
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.
14 I will therefore that the younger women marry, bear children, guide
the house, give none occasion to the adversary to speak reproachfully.
15 For some are already turned aside after Satan.
Acts 9.36, 39
36 Now there was at Joppa a certain disciple named Tabitha, which by
interpretation is called Dorcas: this woman was full of good works and
almsdeeds which she did.
39 Then Peter arose and went with them. When he was come, they brought
him into the upper chamber: and all the widows stood by him weeping,
and shewing the coats and garments which Dorcas made, while she was
with them.
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Once again I ask you...(and I am walking right with you in this...)
Do you really, *really* want to *BE* a "Titus 2 woman, and why?"
_________________________________________________________.
Titus 2.5
To be *discreet,* chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their
own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed.
For Today...
The word here rendered "discreet" is the same word used in verse 4 for
sober ("That they may teach the young women to be sober...")
To be discreet (review Greek definitions)
4998. sophron, so'-frone: from the base of 4982 and that of 5424; safe
(sound) in mind, i.e. self-controlled (moderate as to opinion or
passion):--discreet, sober, temperate.
4982. sozo, sode'-zo: from a primary sos (contraction for obsolete
saos, "safe"); to save, heal, preserve, save (self), do well, be
(make) whole.
5424. hren, frane: probably from an obsolete phrao (to rein in or
curb; compare 5420); (figuratively and by implication, of sympathy)
the feelings (or sensitive nature; by extension (also in the plural)
the mind or cognitive faculties):--understanding.
How does "discreet" behave?
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Yes, it is sober, temperate, safe or sound in mind, it does well, it
is understanding. Now, how does this quality play out or exhibit
itself in everyday living?
*Can we say this of ourselves?* "I have a sound mind, I am temperate,
I do well each day. I am temperate in my emotions, in my behavior in
the home and in my dealings with others, I am understanding. I
demonstrate self control in areas of eating, and child training,
shopping, making financial decisions, and in homemaking. The words I
choose are healing or preserving words, and my reactions to situations
I face reflect sensible and prudent thinking or reasoning." We must
be serious about making these statements a reality in our lives if we
are to live lives pleasing to the LORD.
What are some ways in which you have had to change and learn to be
discreet?
__________________________________________________________.
Where has the quality of discretion been most necessary for you to
develop?
__________________________________________________________.
Can you think of a time you regret *not* being discreet, what did you
learn?
__________________________________________________________.
Let's learn a bit about discretion from the Proverbs:
Pr 5.2 "That thou mayest regard discretion, and that thy lips may keep
knowledge."
*****Pr 11.22 "As a jewel of gold in a swine's snout, so is a fair
woman which is without discretion."
Pr 19.11 "The discretion of a man deferreth his anger; and it is his
glory to pass over a transgression."
Do you have difficulty being discreet, self controlled, and
understanding??? Because Paul instructed that this was a matter to be
taught, it follows that this quality must be learned. We are to BE
discreet. This appears to be one of those non-optional qualities to
develop. Would you decide to day to make "discretion" a top priority
on which to concentrate. *****Seek the Face of the LORD, and set your
mind to the task of learning to respond with discretion and self
control.
Make a note of the times you respond in a new way or differently than
you normally would have responded---Remember to praise the LORD for
the blessings in your walk and in your life.
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Titus 2.5
"To be discreet, *chaste*, keepers at home, good, obedient to their
own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed."
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A Titus 2 woman is Chaste; she is clean, pure, morally blameless,
holy.
Chaste: [53] hagnos, hag-nos' from the same as 40; properly, clean,
i.e. (figuratively) innocent, modest, perfect:--chaste, clean, pure.
[40] hagios, hag'-ee-os from hagos (an
awful thing) (compare
53, 2282); sacred (physically, pure, morally blameless or religious,
ceremonially, consecrated):--(most) holy (one, thing), saint.
Today's questions may seem to be a repeat of yesterday's, but you will
see a difference in application.
Think of some ways in which this characteristic would appear or
display itself...
In mannerisms: How would the chaste woman carry herself?
_________________________________________________________.
In speech: What type of language would a chaste woman use and *not*
use?
_________________________________________________________.
In activities: Where would a chaste woman go or *not* go?
_________________________________________________________.
In the area of jokes, movies, books, music, or other activities, what
would the chaste woman listen to or watch and what would she *not*
listen to or watch?
Consider the books you read, the music you listen to, or the movies
you watch, Are they all things that are a blessing to the LORD? Is He
pleased to join you?
_________________________________________________________.
1Peter 3.2-4
"While they behold your chaste conversation coupled with fear. Whose
adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and
of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel; But let it be the
hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the
ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of
great price."
In the selection of clothing: What would a chaste woman choose to wear
or *not* wear?
_________________________________________________________.
1Corinthians 6.12 "All things are lawful unto me, but all things are
not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought
under the power of any."
1Corinthians 6:19,20 "What? know ye not that your body is the temple
of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are
not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in
your body, and in your spirit, which are God's."
Many times Christians bristle at the notion of having boundaries in
their lives over which they must not step, frequently calling such
boundaries legalism. And, they may be right, in some cases. However,
let's stop and think for a moment about behavior and appearance...
wherever you go, you are (or should be) a representative and
reflection of the Lord Jesus Christ *and* a representative and
reflection on/of your husband and family, not only that, but you are a
representative of your sisters in Christ. Everywhere you go,
everything you do and say is a reflection of your faith in the LORD
and reflects His work in your life.
So, I ask you (and I ask myself) what does it matter what I say, or
do, or wear? What does it matter where I go and what I do there? I
would answer, it matters a great deal---probably much more than I even
think as these questions are presented to *us* today.
So, again, what does a Christian woman look like, how does she behave
and what are the "boundaries" of her life?
________________________________________________________
If you have never thought of these things before, take a few
minutes
to consider them and seek the LORD for whatever promptings He is
giving you and seek to *fully* obey Him as His Holy Spirit enables you
to do so. Prayerfully and carefully examine all areas of your life
and seek the Truth. Additionally, you may ask your husband what his
ideas are and if there are things he sees that you may have
missed---things that may have become blind spots for you. Again, be
fully ready to willingly(!) confess, to change and to obey.
___________________________________________________
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Titus 2.5
"To be discreet, chaste, *keepers at home*, good, obedient to their
own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed."
-----------------------------------------------------------------
We are focusing today on the portion of the verse that says that women
are to be "keepers at home." This is a controversial verse, and in
recent years, this controversy has escalated and been hotly debated by
women on both sides of the keepers at home (and "obedient to...
husbands") issues. For our study today, we are simply going to study
the verse for what it says, and consider some thoughts and questions
pertaining to it.
*Keepers at home*: [3626] oikouros, oy-koo-ros' from 3624 and ouros (a
guard; be "ware"); a stayer at home, i.e. domestically inclined (a
"good housekeeper"):--keeper at home.
[3624] oikos, oy'-kos of uncertain affinity; a dwelling (more or less
extensive, literal or figurative); by implication, a family (more or
less related, literally or figuratively):--home, house(-hold), temple.
Can you think of some specific reasons *why* the LORD teaches us that
wives should be keepers at home, or workers at home?
__________________________________________________________
Proverbs 31.27 "She looketh well to the ways of her household, and
eateth not the bread of idleness."
What happens when a woman steps out of the role that God designed for
her?
________________________________________________________
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.
2 Thessalonians 3.11 "For we hear that there are some which walk among
you disorderly, working not at all, but are busybodies."
Proverbs 7.11 "She is loud and stubborn; her feet abide not in her
house:"
1 Thessalonians 4.11 "And that ye study to be quiet, and to do your
own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you;"
What should a woman's work consist of each day as a "keeper at home?"
_________________________________________________________
(Please Read Proverbs 31.10-31)
Are there consequences to the husband, family and home when the
wife/(mother) chooses to *not* be a keeper at home?
_________________________________________________________
Does this mean that a wife never takes a "job" outside the home?
_________________________________________________________
Basing your answer on all of the specific qualities listed in Titus
2.3-5, what would you say a woman should be concentrating on as a
keeper at home?
_________________________________________________________
Yay, to whomever said APPLICATION and BEing!
What is appropriate for the wife to do outside the home?
_________________________________________________________
(see proverbs 31.11, 13, 14, 16, 18, 20, 24, 31)
Any new thoughts on this Titus 2.5 passage?
_________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
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Titus 2.5
"To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, *good*, obedient to their
own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed."
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Good:
[18] agathos, ag-ath-os'; a primary word; "good" (in any sense, often
as noun):--benefit, good(-s, things), well. Compare 2570.
2570. kalos, kal-os'; of uncertain affinity; properly, beautiful, but
chiefly (figuratively) good (literally or morally), i.e. valuable or
virtuous (for appearance or use, and thus distinguished from 18, which
is properly intrinsic):--X better, fair, good(-ly), honest, meet,
well, worthy.
---------------------------------------------------------------
So... wives are to be *good;* they are to be a benefit, they are to do
well. There are many Scriptures, regarding wives specifically, that
pertain to this quality of being *good.*
O, sisters in the Lord, we must get a handle on this passage of the
Word! Many of us are well seasoned Bible study attendees and aim to
be students of the Word... but how often do we find ourselves studying
and studying and never really applying or even attempting to apply the
Word of Truth. Here is another exhortation of the LORD to do/be
*good.* We will never benefit from a meal we don't take, eat, and
digest so that it becomes a part of us!
Q. Can you think of some very specific things that you do (or should
begin doing!)to be good; good to/for the LORD, good to/for your
husband, good to/for your family??
_________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________
Proverbs 31.12 She will do him good and not evil all the days of her
life.
Q. Would your husband say that doing/being good is a high priority to
you?
___________________________________________________________
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 3.6 Even as Sara obeyed Abraham, calling him lord: whose
daughters ye are, as long as ye do well, and are not afraid with any
amazement.
Acts 9.36 Now there was at Joppa a certain disciple named Tabitha,
which by interpretation is called Dorcas: this woman was full of good
works and almsdeeds which she did.
Q. In what ways do you specifically *benefit* your husband? Your
family?
__________________________________________________________
Ephesians 5.2 And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath
given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a
sweetsmelling savour.
Proverbs 31.29-31
"Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all.
Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the
LORD, she shall be praised. Give her of the fruit of her hands; and
let her own works praise her in the gates."
Think of all those who could offer a report of your goodness, or
imagine a live video tape capturing all of your words and deeds.
Think of all the folks you know, all the places you shop or take care
of business, some of you are employed outside your home, think of the
other motorists on the road, think of the cashiers in the grocery
store, the phone solicitors who call at dinner-time, the clerks at the
gas station, the post office... Wherever you go, whatever you do, you
demonstrate to others who you are.
Q. What report would they give of your goodness?
_____________________________________________________________
Q. Does it matter how you behave *everywhere* you go and toward
*everyone* you meet???
_____________________________________________________________
Q. What thoughts is the LORD prompting in you today?
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
Galatians 5.22-23 "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace,
longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance:
against such there is no law."
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
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Titus 2.5
"To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, *obedient to their
own husbands*, that the word of God be not blasphemed."
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Dozens and dozens of books are written on this subject and so to spend
ten minutes here today will not do justice to the importance of the
truth in this portion of this verse. We must come to an understanding
of this exhortation if we are to be the wives the LORD has designed
and called us to be---and this truly is a calling of the LORD---and I
propose to you that until/unless we fully submit to the LORD in this,
we will never have joy in our lives and further, never have true
fulfillment in our marriages. Our adherence to this truth, our
understanding, our acceptance AND our application of this truth will
be a clear and strong indicator of our obedience and allegiance to the
LORD. It will be a reflection of our beliefs, our position, and our
intentions as women---as godly "Titus 2" women, further, it will be a
direct reflection on our husbands.
While obedience or submission or subjection is a command, it is
something that must be chosen!
Obedient: used here in T2.5, same word rendered submit in Ephesians
5.22 and subjection in 1 Peter 3.5.
Obedient: [5293] hupotasso, hoop-ot-as'-so
from 5259 and 5021; to subordinate; reflexively, to obey:--be under
obedience (obedient), put under, subdue unto, (be, make) subject (to,
unto), be (put) in subjection (to, under), submit self unto.
[5259] hupo, hoop-o'
a primary preposition; under... of place (beneath), or with verbs; of
place (underneath) or where (below) or time (when (at):--among, by,
from, in, of, under, with. In the comparative, it retains the same
general applications, especially of inferior position or condition,
and specially, covertly or moderately.
[5021] tasso, tas'-so
a prolonged form of a primary verb; to arrange in an orderly manner,
i.e. assign or dispose (to a certain position or lot):--addict,
appoint, determine, ordain, set.
Genesis 3.16 "Unto the woman he said, I will greatly multiply thy
sorrow and thy conception; in sorrow thou shalt bring forth children;
and thy desire shall be to thy husband, and he shall rule over thee."
The woman was not created first, but the man, and so it is that in
God's vast wisdom that the man would be her head, he would be her
authority, he would rule over her. For the woman who understands and
even cherishes this headship, there is peace; for the woman who
resists this, there is tension and resentment.
1 Corinthians 11.3 "But I would have you know, that the head of every
man is Christ; and the head of the woman is the man; and the head of
Christ is God."
Ephesians 5.22-24
"Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord.
For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of
the church: and he is the saviour of the body. Therefore as the church
is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in
every thing."
Q. What does submission demonstrate?
________________________________________________________
Colossians 3.18 "Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as
it is fit in the Lord."
Q. Why do you suppose this is a command of the LORD?
________________________________________________________
Q. Do you resist or resent this command? If so, why?
_________________________________________________________
An obedient wife is not one who takes orders, has no original thoughts
or plans, has no opinions or desires, rather, the obedient wife is one
who has set herself in such a position as to be the help or completer
of her husband, she has ordered or arranged her life in such a manner
as to compliment him, his goals and his plans for the family.
She seeks to know and then to implement these plans; she looks for
ways to encourage him, to support him and to honour him. As he
succeeds, she benefits; as he prospers, she gains; as he achieves, she
becomes more secure. As she searches for ways to improve his life,
her own life becomes more fulfilling. This fulfilled wife is a
content keeper at home, she seeks to do well, to be good, her security
prompts her to remain chaste and trust prompts her to remain pure, and
as her confidence increases so does her ability to be discreet----you
see, all the qualities we have studied all week are enhanced,
strengthened or produced by obedience.
This wife seeks to understand the needs of her husband, his need for
admiration and his need to be needed, when she seeks to honour and
admire him, he responds in love to her. When she seeks to know, to
understand and fulfill his real sexual needs, he finds her more
desirable and demonstrates his treasured love for her and she will
know unexpected joy. The husband who has a delighted and playful wife
experiences a joy and a thrill beyond his heart's desire. When she
seeks to know and implement his desires for the routine and atmosphere
of the home, he makes home a priority. When he knows she is thinking
of him, preparing for him, delighting in him, he will more likely seek
to fulfill the commands of the LORD that he love and cherish her and
he the more he will want to demonstrate this love(as the LORD commands
of him!).
The wise wife will pray and seek the LORD to do all she can to be the
woman He has designed her to be, and will strive daily to be the help
meet for her husband. When he asks her to do something, she will do
it, knowing that the LORD will bless and protect her. When he makes a
request, she will not write it off or dismiss it as a mere suggestion,
rather, she will seek to meet the request quickly. She will have his
heart and it will safely trust in her.
1 Peter 3.1-2, 4-6
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;
2 While they behold your chaste conversation coupled with fear.
4 But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not
corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in
the sight of God of great price.
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:
6 Even as Sara obeyed Abraham, calling him lord: whose daughters ye
are, as long as ye do well, and are not afraid with any amazement.
Q. What if my husband is not a believer? That lets me off the hook,
right?
_____________________________________________________________
The wife is commanded to obey... I believe that truly unlawful or
unscriptural requests would rightly be challenged/denied---this is
controversial with some women, and to those who would contend with
this, I would just reply: "Colossians 3.18 "Wives, submit yourselves
unto your own husbands, as it is fit in the Lord." The LORD will guide
and direct the woman who is seeking to be obedient to her husband.
First be concerned with your own behavior... the LORD is big enough to
deal with husbands.
So, what does all this prompt in you? What are you thinking and what
are your plans for when your lord returns home this evening, Sarah?
________________________________________________________________
Any changes in order?
________________________________________________________________
The "why" of Titus 2.5
"To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to
their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed."
Whether we like it, or acknowledge it or believe it, the watching
world is quick to judge or expose error or inconsistencies in other people’s
behavior; further, you may notice that some of your harshest critics are right within your
own church family. When you attempt to apply the convictions of the LORD and the
exhortations of the Word to your life, often those who are closest to you will be most
critical and seek to find fault with your desire or attempt to obey. Personal conviction
must be hemmed in prayer and bound with tenacity to stay the course to which the LORD has
called you. Our behavior must first be for God, it should reflect a right relationship
with Him and demonstrate a right understanding and application of the Word. An important
thing we must fervently guard against is "fear of man." Fear of man will prevent
even the most sincere Christian from complete obedience to God’s calling. This is
often what the faultfinder will react to. He or she will see that you are inconsistent
with your beliefs and will not only find fault with you, but with the Bible and ultimately
with the LORD---this is what this portion of our verse is referring to when it says:
"...that the word of God be not blasphemed." There are very specific reasons why
the LORD directed in His Word the behavior of a faithful woman, for example. This is why
it is so very important to go through exercises such as we have undertaken in the last
couple of weeks to really pray and search the Word, examining what the Scriptures
specifically say and how they apply to our lives. Again, that the Word of God be not
blasphemed!
Let’s look at a commentary by Adam Clarke: [That the word of
God be not blasphemed.] "The enemies of the Gospel are quick-eyed to spy out
imperfections in its professors; and, if they find women professing Christianity living an
irregular life, they will not fail to decry the Christian doctrine on this account:
"Behold your boasted religion! it professes to reform all things, and its very
professors are no better than others! Our heathenism is as good as your
Christianity." These are cutting reproaches; and much they will have to answer for
who give cause for these blasphemies." ---AC 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."
Psalms 89.50-51 "Remember, Lord, the reproach of thy
servants; how I do bear in my bosom the reproach of all the mighty people; Wherewith thine
enemies have reproached, O LORD; wherewith they have reproached the footsteps of thine
anointed."
I once heard a man say to one who was not living out a godly life:
"Christian, change your conduct or change your name!"
And so it must be with us... if we are to be "women of the Word," and if we are
truly to be "Titus 2 women," then with the clear instruction we have, we must
live it... and if we do not, then we must, absolutely without delay, question our
conduct... and upon reflection, must change our conduct or change our name! We are without
excuse, because we have accepted the gift of salvation and the indwelling of the Holy
Spirit; not only do we have Divine help and guidance, we have clear direction as to how we
are to live, how we are to walk, and what very specifically the LORD has designed our
lives to look like... it is now simply a decision of obedience or disobedience and our
choice will determine whether or not the Word of God is blasphemed.
Titus 2.5
"To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to
their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed." What has the study of
these three verses prompted in your life?
_______________________________________________________________.
Is the LORD directing any changes, or is there one area in
which the LORD is really dealing with you?
_______________________________________________________________
Has your walk given the enemy reason for reproach?
_______________________________________________________________
AND FINALLY....... concerning Titus 2.3-5
"The aged women likewise, that they be in behaviour as
becometh holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things;
That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their
children, To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands,
that the word of God be not blasphemed."
Today’s lesson will be very simple and you will likely gain a
great deal and receive quite a blessing if you will take the time to sit down and do it.
After quickly scanning the lessons for the last two weeks, read again these three verses
and then do this very simple exercise:
Four things:
1. Write out the three verses verbatim or write them in your own
words.
2. Now personalize the verses for application.
3. Now write down those things that are difficult for you to
accept, the things that you need help achieving or the
things you don’t already, but
want to begin applying in your own life.
4. Pray... ask the LORD to help you to literally apply what you
have learned.
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