Tit 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.”
In these verses, Paul continues to admonish Titus concerning speaking the things that are suitable for sound doctrine. As he instructed concerning the aged (spiritually mature) men in verse two, he now turns our attention to the aged (spiritually mature) women and the young (newly come to the faith) women. Keep in mind that Paul is not setting forth just our responsibility to each other, but our responsibility in the church before God.
The word “likewise” in verse two refers to the fact that there are similarities between the expectations of a spiritually mature man and a spiritually mature woman. Those who are spiritually mature are expected to be leaders. These scriptures also point out that older brethren can be a great teaching influence on young brethren, and older sisters can be a great teaching influence on young sisters. Our greatest teaching ability lies in living a godly example before the younger Christians God puts in our path.
The spiritually mature women are to conduct themselves in a reverent manner. They are to walk before the Lord with an attitude of humility and worship. Such a demeanor displays what it means to love the Lord and care for His kingdom. It is good to set an example of not spreading gossip (not false accusers). When we find ourselves prefacing a statement with “I probably shouldn’t say anything, but…” we need to listen closely to the first part of that statement. If we probably should not say anything that is a good time to stop talking. This is true of the spiritually mature man or woman (you can’t ignore the “likewise”).
One of the best ways to stop gossip is to not participate. Even if you are not the one spreading it, do not stand and listen to it either. Walk away if you can, and if you cannot walk away, do not take part in the discussion. The spiritually mature sister is going to set an example when it comes to gossip (false accusing) and also to resisting becoming addicted (given) to wine or anything else that might cloud good judgment.
The sisters that are spiritually mature have the ability to be teachers of righteousness (good things). By their encouragement and example, they can influence the young women to have and use a sound mind (be sober). Our spiritually mature sisters have much to offer the younger women, even to teaching them to love their own husbands and children. Paul is clearly demonstrating here that the spiritually mature sisters have an ability to relate to the younger sisters in ways that their male counterparts cannot.
Like the men, the young women need to learn self-control (discreet), to walk uprightly (chaste), and to guard the home. The primary definition of “keeper” according to Strong’s is “a guard.” This is not just about staying at home and out of the workplace. We have here recognition of the strength that God gives to spiritual women to truly “keep” their home. In their righteous walk and godly obedience to their godly, spiritually mature husbands (see verse two) the women are empowered by God to protect (guard, keep) their home. Following these precepts assures that the word of God cannot be spoken against (blasphemed).
May God give us all the grace to serve with joy in the ministry He has given us both in the home and in the church!
