King James Version

What Does Titus 2:6 Mean?

Titus 2:6 in the King James Version says “Young men likewise exhort to be sober minded. sober: or, discreet” — study this verse from Titus chapter 2 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“Young men likewise exhort to be sober minded. sober: or, discreet”

Titus 2:6 · KJV

Context

4

That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children, sober: or, wise

5

To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed.

6

Young men likewise exhort to be sober minded. sober: or, discreet

7

In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine shewing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity,

8

Sound speech, that cannot be condemned; that he that is of the contrary part may be ashamed, having no evil thing to say of you.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Young men likewise exhort to be sober minded—νέους (neous, young men) receive briefer instruction: παρακάλει σωφρονεῖν (parakalei sophronein, exhort to be self-controlled/sensible). One command where women received five (v. 4-5). Why? Verses 7-8 shift to Titus personally as the young man's model. Self-control (σωφροσύνη, sophrosynē) was a cardinal Greek virtue but needed Christian redefinition: not autonomous self-mastery but Spirit-empowered discipline.

Young men face unique temptations: sexual immorality, pride, rashness, aggression. Σωφρονεῖν encompasses sexual purity, humility, thoughtful decision-making, and controlled strength. Where young women needed instruction about relationships and domesticity, young men needed fundamental character formation—thinking rightly before acting rightly.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Young men in Greco-Roman culture faced pressure toward sexual promiscuity (prostitution, pederasty), honor-shame competition, and philosophical pretension. Christian young men needed counter-cultural self-control rooted in gospel truth, not Stoic self-sufficiency. The gymnasium, symposium, and marketplace provided constant temptation requiring sobering grace.

Reflection Questions

  1. Young men: in what areas do you lack self-control—sexual purity, anger management, financial discipline, time use?
  2. How do you cultivate sober-mindedness in a culture promoting perpetual adolescence and instant gratification?
  3. What older men are modeling self-control for you, and are you humble enough to receive their exhortation?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 5 words
τοὺς1 of 5
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

νεωτέρους2 of 5

“Young men”

G3501

"new", i.e., (of persons) youthful, or (of things) fresh; figuratively, regenerate

ὡσαύτως3 of 5

“likewise”

G5615

as thus, i.e., in the same way

παρακάλει4 of 5

“exhort”

G3870

to call near, i.e., invite, invoke (by imploration, hortation or consolation)

σωφρονεῖν5 of 5

“to be sober minded”

G4993

to be of sound mind, i.e., sane, (figuratively) moderate

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Titus. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Titus 2:6 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Titus 2:6 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Ecclesiastes 12:11 Peter 5:5Ecclesiastes 11:9Joel 2:281 John 2:131 Timothy 5:1

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