Similarly, encourage the young men to be self-controlled. In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned, so that those who oppose you may be ashamed because they have nothing bad to say about us.
- Titus 2:6-8
At the beginning of Titus 2, Paul begins teaching Titus about preaching sound doctrine, addressing how various age groups in the Church should live to reflect the gospel. He first addresses the older men, then the older (and younger) women, and here he moves onto the younger men.
The first key point given is that young men should be self-controlled (verse 6). The word translated “self-controlled” means to have a sound mind, to be sensible, disciplined, and restrained in passions and desires. It’s not just about saying “no” to sin, but about exercising wisdom in all areas of life. It means thinking before acting, weighing consequences, and aligning choices with God’s will.
Paul singles this out for young men because younger people can be prone to impulsive decisions, emotional reactions, and chasing passions without thinking about long-term consequences. This was especially true in Crete, where Titus was ministering, as that culture valued indulgence. The surrounding environment encouraged the opposite of self-control: living for momentary pleasure, gaining status through aggression or cunning, and disregarding moral boundaries.
Self-control is foundational for leadership. Before a young man can lead others, he must first learn to govern himself. This is just as true today, where our modern culture is also driven by instant gratification. There are so many temptations in our world that require self-control.
Next, in verse 7, Paul reminds us that the church must not neglect the spiritual formation of young men. Older men and leaders should actively encourage, mentor, and hold accountable younger believers, helping them develop habits of self-control through prayer, Scripture study, and practical guidance. These values are caught as much as they are taught. Words alone are not enough—people need a living demonstration of what godly living looks like.
Following someone’s example is powerful, which is why Paul also turns toward Titus’ preaching specifically in this verse. If Titus preached self-control but lived carelessly, his words would lose credibility. Young believers (whether young in age or young in their faith) often model their lives after someone they respect, so a Godly example gives them a real-life picture of how faith looks in action. This is a recurring theme in Paul’s letters; we see it in Philippians 3:17 and 1 Timothy 4:12, just to name a few. Leaders must be the first to live out the virtues they call others to embrace. This is not just for pastors; every mature believer is called to be a model for others.
Paul then outlines three qualities Titus should demonstrate in his teaching (verses 7b-8): integrity, seriousness, and soundness of speech.
The Greek word translated as “integrity” refers to purity, incorruptibility, and sincerity. Integrity in teaching means being truthful and faithful to Scripture, avoiding manipulation for personal gain, and refusing to distort God’s Word to please people. Integrity is under constant attack today when leaders are tempted to water down truth to avoid controversy, or to promote their own brand rather than Christ’s glory. Integrity calls us to stay rooted in God’s Word without compromise.
Seriousness doesn’t mean joyless solemnity, but a deep respect for the message being proclaimed. Preaching is not entertainment; it is the life-giving Word of God. Seriousness means treating spiritual matters with the weight they deserve, avoiding frivolity or flippancy when handling Scripture, and demonstrating genuine concern for people’s souls.
Soundness of speech means speech that is healthy, wholesome, and beyond reproach. It’s not just about avoiding false doctrine, but also speaking in a way that builds up rather than tears down, choosing words that reflect God’s truth and grace, and being free from crude, sarcastic, or degrading remarks. When all believers (not just leaders) use speech that is both truthful and gracious, the Church’s witness becomes far more powerful.
What is the goal of all of this? “So that those who oppose you may be ashamed” (verse 8b). Opponents of the faith should have no legitimate grounds for criticism. This doesn’t mean believers will never face accusations (Jesus Himself was falsely accused), but if the Church’s conduct is above reproach, those accusations will ultimately be shown to be empty. Today, hypocrisy among Christians is often highlighted in the media, so the most effective response is not defensive arguments, but consistent godliness.
It is important to remember that Paul’s instructions are not about legalism or moralism (trying harder in our own strength) but about living out the transformation that the gospel produces. Self-control, integrity, and sound speech are the fruit of God’s Spirit at work in us (Galatians 5:22-23).
While this passage may be directed specifically to young men, it calls all of us to live with a higher standard. We should all strive to maintain self-control, live as good examples for others, and have integrity in our teaching and speech. That is what our culture needs most: Christians whose lives are undeniable evidence of the transforming grace of God.
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