Titus 2:6-10
6 “Likewise urge the young men to be sensible; 7 in all things show yourself to be an example of good deeds, with purity in doctrine, dignified, 8 sound in speech which is beyond reproach, so that the opponent will be put to shame, having nothing bad to say about us.9 Urge slaves to be subject to their own masters in everything, to be pleasing, not argumentative, 10 not stealing, but showing all good faith so that they will adorn the doctrine of God our Savior in every respect.”
Young men: Just as older men and women are to be of sound doctrine and love, so also are young men and women. Paul does not allow age to discount someone’s value and effectiveness in God’s kingdom. He is more concerned with spiritual maturity than age.
Good deeds: Good deeds are not synonymous with legalistic practices. Good deeds, or good works, always arise out of our new identity in Christ. Good deeds are Christ’s work within His children. As we allow Him to express fruit through us, we produce good works in the world. This is Paul’s consistent message to his readers.
Beyond reproach: Paul encourages Titus to instruct people to live at peace with one another while maintaining pure doctrine. This puts to shame those who are antagonistic to Christians and the Gospel message.
Slaves: Paul likely has the employee in mind. In Greek culture slaves referred to those who were manual laborers, tutors, and other jobs often held for a family or individual. Paul does not have in mind an oppressive system of slavery.
Adorn the doctrine of God: The good works being encouraged by Paul are decorating sound doctrine. As we express Christ to people light is shined on the sound doctrine of the Gospel. People will see the fragrant aroma of Christ amongst Christians and inquire about the source of their joy. Christ’s life within us is attractive to the world.
